Can I install multiple eSIMs on the same phone?
Yes. Modern iPhones and Android devices support multiple eSIM profiles - typically 5 to 8 stored profiles, with 1 or 2 active simultaneously. You can install eSIMs for different countries and switch between them in settings without removing any.
Can I use the eSIM right after purchase or do I need to wait?
Yes - you can install it immediately after purchase. Your order email arrives within minutes and contains the QR code, a one-tap install link and the manual codes, plus an "Install eSIM" button; you can also sign in > My eSIMs > Install any time. Installing right away does not start your plan - the validity countdown only begins when the eSIM connects to a mobile network inside your plan's coverage area. Keep the eSIM line and Data Roaming off until you are ready to start; if your plan covers the country you are in right now, turning the line on starts the countdown immediately.
Can I use the eSIM for my smartwatch?
Some smartwatches (Apple Watch Cellular, Samsung Galaxy Watch LTE) support eSIM, but they typically require a plan from your home carrier rather than a travel eSIM. eSIMno plans are designed for phones and tablets - check device compatibility before purchase if you intend to use a wearable.
Can I use the eSIM to make video calls?
Yes - apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams all work over your eSIM data. Video calls use about 200-400 MB per hour depending on quality, so factor that into your plan choice if you make long calls regularly.
Does the eSIM work on cruise ships or airplanes?
eSIMs use ground-based cellular networks, so they don't work in flight or at sea outside coastal coverage. They activate as soon as you connect to a partner network on land. For in-flight or maritime data, you'll need the airline or ship's onboard Wi-Fi.
What payment methods does eSIMno accept?
eSIMno accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. All transactions are processed through secure encrypted gateways, and we don't store full card details on our servers.
Can I extend my eSIM plan validity?
The validity of a package that is already running cannot be extended, but you can top up: a top-up adds a new package with its own data AND its own validity days. Packages run one at a time - the top-up waits in queue and activates automatically when your current package ends (data used up or days expired), and its own days start counting from that moment. In practice this keeps you connected longer, even though the current package's own end date does not move.
Should I enable data roaming for the eSIM?
Yes - you must enable data roaming for the eSIM line, even though there are no roaming charges. The eSIM connects to a local partner network and your phone treats this as roaming. Enable it: iPhone > Settings > Cellular > eSIMno line > Data Roaming ON; Android > Settings > Network > SIMs > eSIMno > Roaming ON. This setting only affects the eSIM, not your home SIM.
How do I activate the Portugal eSIM?
Your eSIMno order confirmation email contains your QR code, your SM-DP+ address and activation code, a one-tap install link, and an "Install eSIM" button - so you can install right from the email. The same options are also on the website: sign in at esimno.com and go to Profile > My eSIMs > your plan > Install. To install, use any ONE of these methods: (1) on the phone you are setting up, tap the one-tap install link/button (iPhone on iOS 17.4+ or Android 9+); (2) use the QR code - because a phone cannot scan its own screen, show this QR on another screen (computer/tablet) or a printout and scan it WITH the phone you are setting up (never with someone else's phone, or the eSIM would install on that phone); or (3) enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code manually. Your Portugal eSIM activates automatically when you connect to a local network at your destination.
Can I use my SIM card and eSIM at the same time?
Yes. On dual-SIM devices (most modern iPhones and Android phones), you can run your physical SIM and the eSIM simultaneously. Use your home SIM for calls and SMS, and the eSIM for mobile data. Keep in mind that leaving your home SIM active may trigger roaming charges if you use it for calls or texts abroad.
When should I set up my eSIM?
A Wi-Fi connection is required to install your eSIM, so we recommend setting it up before you leave home. Activation can happen later, either right before departure or after you land at your destination - but the initial QR scan needs Wi-Fi.
Is the eSIM connection secure?
eSIM connections are as secure as standard cellular connections - encrypted by the carrier network. For added security on public networks (cafes, airports), use a VPN. The eSIM profile itself is digitally signed and can't be cloned like a physical SIM.