How do I install and set up an eSIM on my Android device?

Before installing, make sure that your device:

Your device needs to be eSIM compatible and network unlocked. (see "What devices support eSIM?" + "How do I check if my Android device supports eSIM?")
You have a stable connection, preferably WiFi. (You need to download the eSIM properly to your device and a stable internet connection is a must.)

Where can I find the eSIM installation instructions in the Airalo app?

You can find all the instructions to install your eSIM by doing the following.

Open the Airalo app.
Go to My eSIMs and select your eSIM.
Tap View details
Go to the section Ready to use your eSIM?
Select Install or share.

To view the manual installation instructions and QR code, select Share and more, or start the installation directly by clicking on Start installation.

Most eSIM validity periods start only when the eSIM connects to a mobile network in its coverage area. So installing early usually won’t cause you to lose plan days. In some rare cases, validity may begin at installation, so it’s a good idea to check eSIM's validity policy by selecting Package details before or after purchase.

How to install an eSIM directly on an Android device?

Some Android models support Direct installation from the Airalo app. If available:

Open the Airalo app
Go to My eSIMs and select your eSIM
Select View Details
Scroll down to find Ready to use your eSIM → Install your eSIM.
Tap Install or share
Tap Start installation
Allow the eSIM to activate if asked. If additional steps appear on your screen, simply follow the instructions shown.
Wait a few minutes for your eSIM to activate.
After completing these steps, you’ll see a confirmation that your eSIM is successfully installed.
Slide to Continue
A pop-up may appear asking you to enable data roaming for your eSIM (if required). If it does, enable it and Slide to continue.
Another pop-up will ask if you’re already at your destination.
- If you are in the destination country, tap Get Connected to check the steps to connect to your network.
- If you haven’t arrived yet, tap Connect Later.

The installation didn’t go as planned? No worries — we're here to help.

We aim to make your installation experience as smooth as possible. However, if a direct installation attempt fails, you may see a "Something went wrong" message on your screen.

If this happens, simply tap "View options" to access our self-service tools. Depending on the situation, you will be able to:

Automated Replacement: Quickly replace your eSIM profile.
Automated Refund: Process a refund for your purchase if the issue cannot be resolved.
Escalation to Support: Connect directly with our support team for assistance.

How to install an eSIM via QR code on an Android device?

In the Airalo app, choose the QR Code option (you can share it to another device or print it)
Open Settings on your device
Select Network & Internet
Select + Add Mobile Network (or Add eSIM)
When prompted with “Don’t have a SIM card?”,select Next
Scan your QR code and enter the confirmation code if prompted
Go back to Mobile Network and turn on your eSIM
Enable Mobile data
Enable Data roaming (turn off your primary line to avoid roaming charges when abroad)
If required, set up your APN (Access Point Name) using the details from your Airalo app

How to install an eSIM manually on an Android device?

In the Airalo app, choose the Manual option
Copy the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code (and Confirmation Code if available)
Open Settings on your device
Select Network & Internet
Select + Add Mobile Network (or Add eSIM)
When prompted with “Don’t have a SIM card?”,select Next
Select Enter code manually and enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code from your Airalo app
Go back to Mobile Network and turn on your eSIM
Enable Mobile data
Enable Data roaming (turn off your primary line to avoid roaming charges when abroad)
If required, set up your APN (Access Point Name) using the details from your Airalo app

Important tip:

Once your eSIM is installed via Direct, QR Code, or Manual, you can find the connection settings by opening the same eSIM in the Airalo app. Navigate to My eSIMs → Your eSIM → View details → Ready to use your eSIM → Connect to a network → How to connect.

What happens after installation?

Once installed and selected for data, your eSIM should automatically connect to a supported mobile network.

Why can't I find the installation instructions after I install my eSIM?

When Airalo detects your eSIM is installed, the instructions to add the eSIM may no longer be visible in the app — you will see the "How to connect" section instead so you can connect to a network and use your eSIM.

If you need to reference the installation instructions for any reason, you can reference the installation instructions PDF attached to your order confirmation or eSIM delivered email.

Understanding your eSIM status: Installed vs. In Use

You can track your setup progress directly in the Airalo app by going to My eSIMs, selecting your eSIM, and tapping View details. Depending on your setup stage, you may see one of these statuses:

Installed: The eSIM profile has been successfully downloaded and configured on your device.
In Use: The eSIM has successfully connected to a mobile network and initiated a data session.

Note: In most cases, you can see these status updates in the app. However, please note that status visibility may vary depending on your specific eSIM

If you do not see a status, do not worry — simply check if your eSIM appears in your device’s Settings. If it is there, head over to the "How to connect" section in the app / and follow the steps to get connected at your destination.

If you still have questions about installing and activating an eSIM, please contact us via chat in the app or on the website by clicking the chat bubble.