Installing a travel eSIM on an iPhone is genuinely a 60-second job once you know the steps. This guide covers the exact taps, what to do before you fly, and the most common mistakes that leave travellers without a signal. It applies to iPhone XS and every model since, running iOS 17 or later.
Before you start: three quick checks
- eSIM support: iPhone XS, XR and every later model (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 series) support eSIM. Check our compatibility tool if you're unsure.
- Carrier unlocked: your iPhone must not be locked to a single carrier. Most phones bought outright in Pakistan are unlocked.
- Wi-Fi available: you need an internet connection to scan and install the eSIM profile — do this before you leave Pakistan.
Step 1 — Buy your plan and get the QR code
Choose a destination plan from simless.pk. After checkout, your unique eSIM QR code is generated automatically and sent to your email and WhatsApp within seconds.
Step 2 — Open the eSIM installer
On your iPhone, go to Settings → Mobile Data (or Cellular) → Add eSIM. Tap Use QR Code. If you're reading the QR code on the same phone, tap "Enter Details Manually" and use the activation code from your email instead.
Step 3 — Scan the QR code
Point the camera at the QR code (display it on a laptop or second screen) and your iPhone will detect the eSIM profile. Tap Continue, then Add eSIM. The profile downloads in a few seconds.
Step 4 — Label your lines
iOS will ask you to name the new line. Call it something clear like "Travel Data". Set your Pakistani SIM as the Default Line for calls and iMessage, and choose the eSIM for Mobile Data. This keeps your number active while the eSIM carries your internet.
Step 5 — Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM (on arrival)
This is the step travellers most often miss. Go to Settings → Mobile Data → [your eSIM line] → turn ON Data Roaming. For a travel eSIM, "roaming" simply means it is connecting to a network abroad — this is normal and does not incur extra charges because your data is already prepaid. Turn data roaming off for your Pakistani SIM to avoid carrier fees.
Troubleshooting: no signal after landing
- Confirm Data Roaming is on for the eSIM line (Step 5).
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off to force a fresh network search.
- Check that Mobile Data is set to the eSIM, not your home SIM.
- In Settings → Mobile Data → eSIM → Network Selection, switch from Automatic to manual and pick a local network.
- Restart the iPhone — this resolves most first-connection issues.
Can I delete the eSIM after my trip?
Yes, but you don't have to. A used or expired eSIM profile sits harmlessly in your settings and uses no data. If you want a clean list, go to Settings → Mobile Data → tap the eSIM → Delete eSIM. Keep the QR code email if there's any chance you'll reinstall it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my iPhone say 'No Service' after installing the eSIM?
Almost always because Data Roaming is off for the eSIM line. Go to Settings → Mobile Data → select your eSIM → turn on Data Roaming. For a prepaid travel eSIM this does not cause extra charges.
Can I install the eSIM after I land?
It's possible if you can find Wi-Fi, but it's far easier to install before departure while on home Wi-Fi. Installation needs internet; activation happens automatically abroad.
Will adding an eSIM remove my physical SIM?
No. iPhones support Dual SIM, so your physical SIM and the eSIM work side by side. You keep your Pakistani number for calls while the eSIM handles data.
How many eSIMs can an iPhone store?
Modern iPhones can store eight or more eSIM profiles and have two active at once. You can keep eSIMs from several past trips installed and switch between them.
