FAQ's

eSIM stands for “embedded SIM” – for the fact that it's built into an electronic device such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or smartwatch.

An eSIM works in the same as a conventional, physical SIM card except it doesn’t need to be inserted into a device and, subsequently, can’t be removed, lost, or replaced.

A prepaid eSIM is a mobile plan that comes preloaded with a set amount of data, minutes and/or texts, and sometimes a mobile number, for a set period. A prepaid eSIM works in the same way as a physical prepaid SIM card – with the only difference being the technology.

Some of the benefits of using an eSIM include saving up to 90% off international roaming rates, the convenience of being able to easily download a new data plan from anywhere with an internet connection, and greater security.

To confirm your device is eSIM-enabled, check out our list of eSIM-compatible devices

An eSIM plan can contain different combinations of data, voice, and text. Typical eSIM plans include:

  • Data only (no phone number): the most common type of eSIM plan
  • Data only (with phone number): a less common combination, as the number would only be used to receive local calls and texts
  • Data and voice and/or texts: comes with a phone number

An eSIM plan can contain different combinations of data, voice, and text. Typical eSIM plans include:

  • Data only (no phone number): the most common type of eSIM plan
  • Data only (with phone number): a less common combination, as the number would only be used to make and receive local calls and texts
  • Data and voice and/or texts: comes with a phone number

Some network providers allow you to track your data, voice, and text usage: typically via an app or a number you’re required to text. Your provider will share the instructions on how to do so upon purchase.

Your eSIM plan, and instructions on how to activate it, will be sent via email: to the address you provided when you purchased your plan.

You can activate your eSIM plan using the QR and activation codes sent via email by your network provider.

For more detailed instructions, see our posts that offer step-by-step instructions on how to activate your eSIM on various devices.

One of the key advantages of eSIM-compatible devices is that you can download multiple plans, in fact an eSIM can store between 8-20 different mobile plans!

Generally, only 1 eSIM plan can be active at a time and you’ll need to switch between them in your device’s mobile settings.

Exceptions to this rule are the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, which allow you to have two active eSIM plans SIMultaneously.

Typically, an eSIM plan can only be activated on one device and can’t be transferred to another.

Apple allow you to transfer either a physical SIM or eSIM on your previous iPhone to an eSIM on your new iPhone using the eSIM Quick Transfer process.

Just like any SIM card, the network type depends on a few factors:

  • Your device
  • The type of plan you purchased
  • Your network provider and the coverage they offer
  • Your location: where you are when you attempt to use your device will determine the quality of the network connection.

Be sure to double-check the network type your eSIM plan supports before you purchase your plan – especially in the case of 5G.

A dual SIM device can SIMultaneously support two different SIM cards. In the past, this meant two physical SIM cards.

An eSIM-enabled device, meanwhile, can support a physical SIM card and an embedded SIM, allowing you to switch between the two in your device’s settings.

The iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 series of smartphones are dual eSIM, meaning you can have two active eSIM plans at the same time.

Learn how to set up your iPhone as a Dual (e)SIM device here.

The validity of a prepaid eSIM depends on the network provider. While some prepaid eSIM plans expire within a month of date of last usage, most are valid for up to a year. Fortunately, you'll be informed how long your eSIM is valid before you purchase your plan.

Some network providers allow you to top up your eSIM plan with additional data and/or voice as well as extend its validity. But not all. We recommend you check before purchase.

Make sure your turn off the main line in your device’s Mobile settings to avoid incurring roaming fees. However, if you need to receive an SMS (eg. OTP) through your main phone number whilst abroad, we recommend you only activate it momentarily to receive the text, whilst keeping data roaming turned off in your settings.

As long as your main line is switched off and you use your eSIM according to your plan (i.e, the included data, voice, and texts) you won’t incur any roaming fees.

esimpop is a Global eSIM Directory that seeks out the best eSIM plans and brings them all together in one place for your convenience. Once you’ve found the ideal plan from our 1000+ strong eSIM collection, you’ll be sent to the appropriate network provider to make your purchase directly from them.