eSIM QR code: What it is and how to get it

What is an eSIM QR code?

An eSIM QR code is probably the easiest and quickest method to install an eSIM on your mobile phone. Installing an eSIM is a great alternative to a physical SIM because it saves time, doesn’t require messing with SIM card slots, and lets you enjoy the same benefits as a SIM card. After all, that's what an eSIM (or embedded SIM) is for — using the same mobile services without the hassle of setting up a physical SIM card.

What should you do before getting your eSIM QR code?

For a smooth eSIM setup, you should first do a short prep. It’s nothing major, but it’s necessary if you want a quick installation and fewer issues in the future. So, before you get your eSIM QR code, here are the steps we recommend.

Check device compatibility with eSIMs

Not all smartphones are eSIM compatible. Therefore, before setting up your eSIM, be sure to check whether your device supports eSIMs. To do so, you can:

• Search this information on the web.

• Contact your carrier and ask directly.

• Check out the list of eSIM-compatible phones.

Have your IMEI number ready

When setting up your eSIM, the carrier may need your device’s IMEI number to register your device to the network or to identify your device. That’s why it may be better to have your IMEI ready beforehand. You can find it in your phone’s settings (“Settings” > “About phone” > “Status” > “IMEI information” for Android, and “Settings” > “General” > “About” on iPhone) or by typing *#06# in your dialer app (the phone will display your IMEI number on the screen).

Choose an eSIM carrier in line with your needs

If you’re switching carriers, check out different providers and find the cellular plan that best suits your needs. On the other hand, sometimes you might not need to get a full eSIM plan at all. Say, if you’re using an eSIM just to get mobile data abroad, you’d be better off downloading an eSIM mobile data app, such as Saily, instead of completely switching from physical SIM to eSIM. 

However, if you're using an eSIM for calls and texting, finding the service provider that's best for you is the obvious way to go.

How to get the eSIM QR code

Great, you’ve got your IMEI, found the best eSIM plan, and are now ready to set it up on your mobile phone. So, what should you do next to get the eSIM QR code for your Android or iPhone?

Visit your eSIM carrier store and choose a cellular plan

While you don't have to visit your carrier store to install an eSIM, doing so can help you avoid unnecessary hurdles or issues during the installation. Just take the phone to your carrier store, and they’ll set up your eSIM for you.

However, if you’re too busy or too self-sufficient to visit your carrier, you can contact them via phone or the internet and ask for the eSIM QR code. The carrier will confirm your identity and send you the eSIM QR activation code to use. 

Finally, if you're not looking for a permanent eSIM and just want an alternative to a SIM while traveling abroad, you can download an eSIM app, such as Saily. Saily supports QR code installation and can be a helpful tool for using mobile data while traveling abroad.

Generate the eSIM QR code

Once you contact your carrier (remotely or in person) and decide upon the eSIM plan that you want to pick (you can also just switch your existing SIM to an eSIM and keep your current service plan, depending on the carrier), all that’s left is to get the eSIM QR code. The carrier will generate it for you and either send it via email or present it live in the carrier store.

If you’re using an eSIM data app, you can and should scan the QR and install your eSIM before traveling. You wouldn’t want to carelessly wander through the airport and look for open Wi-Fi just so you could install your eSIM, right? Setting up your eSIM before your trip will save you time and allow you to test whether everything’s working properly in advance.

Scan the QR code with your device and get online!

There’s not much to add here — once you get the eSIM QR code, scan it, wait for your phone to set up the eSIM service, and voila! You’re good to go. If you have trouble using an eSIM after installing it, try restarting your phone. If that doesn’t do the trick, contact your carrier for further support.

What if your eSIM QR code is not working?

In rare cases, your eSIM QR code may not work. It could be due to some carrier error, a faulty eSIM QR code, or additional issues with your phone (such as the phone being unable to scan the code). If you’re having trouble with the QR code scan, you can also try installing the eSIM manually by typing in your phone's activation code that comes with the eSIM QR code. If that doesn’t help, contact your mobile service provider for further instructions.