Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing your travel eSIM on your iPhone using the Sim Local app. Follow these simple instructions to get connected quickly and easily. Alternatively, check out our installation video (see above).
Before we get started, let’s quickly check a few things, to help the installation go smoothly…
Firstly, make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible.
The quickest way to check this is to use our compatibility checker.
Next, make sure your phone is unlocked from your network. This just means your phone is able to accept SIMs from other networks, as well as your own.
Remember to do this close to your travel date, as the plan activates immediately.
Purchase Your eSIM
Start by purchasing an eSIM through the Sim Local app.
(Zoom in for a closer view)
Go to My eSIM and select your plan.
Once your purchase is complete, you’ll be given two options to install your plan.
1. Download Plan (recommended)
2. Use a QR Code (for gifting or using on another device)
Download and Install Your eSIM
If you’re installing the eSIM on your own phone, tap Download Plan to keep things simple.
(Zoom in for a closer view)
After downloading, tap Install Plan.
(Note: Only do this close to your travel date, as your plan starts immediately after installation.)
When prompted, tap Allow and then Continue to install the new eSIM.
Your screen will display Connecting to Network, which might take a couple of minutes.
Once complete, you’ll see either Mobile Plan Setup Complete or Cellular Plan Setup Complete.
Set Your Default Line
Choose which line to use for calls, texts, and data.
(Zoom in for a closer view)
For your default line, select the option not named Primary (this is usually called Secondary or Travel) if you received a new phone number for calls and texts.
However, if you want to continue using your home number to receive calls and texts, select your Primary line.
For iMessage and FaceTime, keep these on Primary to keep these on.
Go to Mobile Data Settings and select Secondary to allow data usage on your eSIM.
Make sure Allow Mobile Data Switching is turned off to avoid unexpected charges.
Rename Your eSIM
Label your eSIM so you can identify it later.
(Zoom in for a closer view)
Go to Settings > Mobile Service (or Cellular Service).
Under SIMs, tap your new eSIM.
Select Mobile Plan Label and choose Custom Label.
Rename your eSIM to something helpful, like "Sim Local" or the name of your destination.
Finally, return to your Secondary line settings and toggle Data Roaming to on.
