How long does it take to activate an eSIM? Everything you need to know

An eSIM can connect you to the world in seconds, but connecting to an eSIM may take longer than that. Find out the factors that can influence eSIM activation and what to look for if you want to get an eSIM that you can activate in no time.

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4 min read

How long does it take to activate an eSIM? Everything you need to know

How long does it take to activate an eSIM?

How quickly you can activate your new eSIM depends on the eSIM provider and the network you’re connecting to. In most cases, you can set up your new data plan in the time it takes to enjoy a coffee break. Sometimes, it may also take as long as watching a blockbuster movie. So why is the activation time so different?

Let’s turn to eSIM providers first. Depending on which one you choose, you’ll need to take a number of steps to activate your digital SIM. For example, with Saily, you only need to download the eSIM app, buy the plan, and press the eSIM activation button. The activation usually takes up to 15 minutes, and you’re ready to roll!

Other providers can also ask you to create a dedicated account, enter confirmation codes, or pass through multiple verification steps before you can connect to the new network. Even with all these steps, activating an eSIM is a relatively simple process. But every little step of the way eats your time, so make sure to choose a provider that has streamlined its eSIM activation process.

Apart from the carriers, network conditions also have a huge impact on eSIM connection speed. If the network signal is patchy, its data speed sluggish, and customer demand very high, activating an eSIM may become painfully slow. 

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    saily blog author monika grigutyte
    Monika Grigutytė

    Stranded on an island off of Puerto Rico? Waiting for a soon-to-be-canceled train to Milan? Monika is sure everything will be fine as long as she has an eSIM. She believes connection is everything – whether it’s connecting to people or new places. And what better way to do that than by using an eSIM?