What customer support is available if I have issues?
eSIMno offers support via WhatsApp and email. Our team helps with installation, troubleshooting, billing questions and refund requests during business hours, and our automated assistant answers common questions 24/7. Most issues are resolved within minutes during business hours.
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.
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 keep my WhatsApp number while using an eSIM?
Yes. Your WhatsApp number stays linked to your home SIM, so all your chats, contacts, and groups remain unchanged. WhatsApp uses data (not the SIM line directly) for messages and calls, so it works seamlessly over your eSIMno data.
How fast does the eSIM activate after I switch off airplane mode?
Activation typically takes 10-30 seconds after airplane mode is switched off, depending on local network availability. In some cases it's nearly instant; in remote areas it may take a minute or two. If it doesn't connect within 5 minutes, restart your phone or check that data roaming is enabled.
Can I make phone calls or send SMS?
It depends on the plan you choose. Most eSIMno plans are data-only: on those you cannot place regular calls or send SMS from the eSIM line, but messaging and calling apps work normally over the data connection - WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime, Telegram, Signal and Google Meet. We also offer voice plans in selected destinations, and on those calling and SMS work from the eSIM line itself, which comes with its own French phone number and unlimited calling across Europe. Every plan card shows which type it is, so check the plan type before you buy. If you are looking at a voice plan, please also read who you can call and text, and what happens to the phone number - both are explained in their own questions below.
How do I delete an eSIM I no longer need?
On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > tap the eSIM line > Remove eSIM. On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > tap the eSIM > Erase. Deleting the eSIM frees up a profile slot. Make sure you don't need it anymore - once deleted, you can't reinstall the same profile.
How do I activate the USA, Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands LifeTime 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 USA, Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands LifeTime eSIM activates automatically when you connect to a local network at your destination.
What payment methods does eSIMno accept?
eSIMno accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). Your bank verifies each payment with 3D Secure, and we don't store full card details on our servers.
What happens when my data plan runs out?
When you use up your data, your connection stops until you top up or buy a new plan. While connected to Wi-Fi, you can top up right from My eSIMs (Top Up), or buy a new plan if your validity period has expired.
Will my own number still work while I use the eSIM?
Yes, if you want it to. As long as your main line stays switched on, your own number keeps working while the eSIM handles your mobile data. But abroad, your mobile operator usually charges roaming fees for calls and texts on that number, even for calls you answer. If you don't need your number during the trip, turn off your main line in your phone's SIM settings to avoid these fees. We don't recommend making or answering regular calls on your own number abroad; call over the internet instead, with apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime, using your eSIM data. If you need a code by SMS, for example from your bank, you can switch the line back on for a moment.
Can I share data from my eSIM with someone else's phone?
Yes, through Personal Hotspot. Activate hotspot on your phone, share the password, and the other device connects to your data. Data used by connected devices counts toward your eSIM plan, so monitor usage to avoid running out faster than expected.