Can I buy an eSIM for someone else as a gift?
Yes. Purchase the eSIM with your own details, then forward your order confirmation email - or share the "Install eSIM" link from it - with the recipient so they can install it on their own phone (the email contains the QR code and the manual SM-DP+ / activation codes). Make sure their device is eSIM-compatible first - installation usually cannot be reversed once completed.
Can I install my eSIM before traveling?
Yes - setting it up before your trip is the easiest approach. Your confirmation email contains the QR code, a one-tap install link and the manual SM-DP+ / activation codes (the same options are also available via sign in > Profile > My eSIMs > Install). While on Wi-Fi at home, install it with the one-tap link on your phone, or - to use the QR - show it on another screen or a printout and scan it with the phone you are setting up (not another phone). Installing does not start your plan: the validity countdown only begins when the eSIM connects to a mobile network inside your plan's coverage area. While you are outside that area, the eSIMno line and its Data Roaming can stay on - the eSIM cannot connect there, so nothing starts; just keep mobile data on your main line until then. On arrival, set mobile data to the eSIMno line and turn off Data Roaming on your main line so your carrier does not charge roaming fees. Important: if your plan also covers the country you are in right now, turning the line and Data Roaming on starts it immediately - leave both switched off until you want to use it. Please note: once installed, an eSIM is considered used and is no longer eligible for a refund.When Should I Set Up My eSIM?
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.
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. While you are outside that area, the eSIM line and its Data Roaming can stay on - the eSIM cannot connect there, so nothing starts. If your plan also covers the country you are in right now, turning the line and Data Roaming on starts the countdown immediately - leave both off until you want to use it.
How can I verify if my eSIM is activated?
There are two clear indicators: (1) your phone's status bar shows the local carrier name once you arrive at your destination, and (2) the data icon (4G, LTE, or 5G) appears next to the eSIMno line in your cellular settings. If neither shows up, turn airplane mode on and then off again, or restart your phone.
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.
What happens if I pause my trip and return home?
Your eSIM keeps its validity period running whether you're using it or not - pausing your trip doesn't pause the timer. If you return home, the eSIM stays dormant on your device until you travel again or it expires. You can disable it in cellular settings to avoid accidental usage.
How do I set up the eSIM on my device?
The fastest way is straight from your order confirmation email, which now contains - for each eSIM - the QR code, a one-tap install link, and the SM-DP+ / activation codes. On the phone you'll use, tap the one-tap install link; or, to use the QR, show it on another screen or a printout and scan it with that same phone (not another phone); or enter the codes manually. The email also has an "Install eSIM" button that opens your eSIM's detail page and launches the install pop-up (sign in if prompted), and you can reach the same pop-up anytime via Profile > My eSIMs > find your plan (shown as "Ready to use") > Install. After installing, turn Data Roaming ON for your eSIMno line (iPhone: Settings > Cellular; Android: Settings > Connections/Network) - without it the eSIM installs but shows no internet. Full guide in Help & Support.
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.
How long is the validity of the UK eSIM plans?
Validity depends on the plan you choose, from 1 day to 180 days. Lifetime plans have no fixed end date: the data stays on your eSIM as long as you top up the same eSIM at least once every 12 months.
Can I tether or use Personal Hotspot with my eSIM?
Yes. Your eSIMno plan supports tethering and Personal Hotspot at no extra charge. Activate the Personal Hotspot feature in your device settings and connect other devices as you would with any cellular plan. Data used while tethering counts toward your plan allowance.
Do I need to deactivate my original SIM?
We recommend turning off cellular data and data roaming on your original SIM while abroad to avoid accidental roaming charges. You don't need to physically remove the SIM - just disable data and set the eSIM as your primary data line.