How do I install an Airalo eSIM manually on my iOS device?

Before installing, make sure that your device:

Supports eSIMs (see What devices support eSIM? or How do I check if my iOS device supports eSIM?).
Is carrier-unlocked
Has a stable internet connection (preferably Wi-Fi)

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.

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.

How to install an eSIM manually on iOS?

Open Settings
Select Cellular (or Mobile Data)
Select Add eSIM (or Add Cellular/Mobile Data Plan)
Select Use QR Code, then Select Enter Details Manually
Enter the SM-DP+ Address, Activation Code, and Confirmation Code (if provided)
Select Next, then Select Continue twice — Allow the eSIM to activate if asked; if additional steps appear on your screen, simply follow the instructions shown.
Wait while the eSIM activates (don’t exit the process — it may take a few minutes).
Select Done when prompted — next, you’ll set up your eSIM by following the steps in the How to Connect section.

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 connect to a network

You can find the connection settings by opening the same eSIM in the Airalo app after installing it. Navigate to My eSIMs → Select your eSIM → View details → Ready to use your eSIM → Connect to a network → How to connect. There, you'll find the exact steps you need to follow, but read on for a quick summary.

In the destination country:

Step 1: Enable your eSIM for data

Open Settings.
Select Cellular (or Mobile Data).
Select your eSIM.
Toggle Turn On This Line if it's not enabled.
Go back to Cellular/Mobile Data and select your eSIM as the data line.

Step 2: Update APN settings (if required)

Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
Select your eSIM.
Select Cellular Data Network (or Mobile Data Network).
Enter the APN exactly as shown in your Airalo app.
Leave the other fields blank.
If the APN is set automatically, no changes are needed.

Step 3: Enable Data Roaming (if required)

Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
Select your eSIM.
Toggle Data Roaming ON or OFF as instructed in your Airalo app.

Step 4: Set your eSIM as the default voice line (if applicable)

Open Settings > Cellular > Default Voice Line.
Select your new eSIM for calls and SMS (if your package includes calls and texts).

Step 5: Disable Cellular Data Switching

Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
Tap Cellular Data.
Turn Allow Cellular Data Switching off.

Step 6: Choose a label for your eSIM

Open Settings.
Select Cellular (or Mobile Data).
Select your eSIM.
Choose Label and select a suggested label or create a custom one (for example, “Airalo” or “Airalo for Canada”).

*Using a label helps you easily identify your eSIM, especially if you use multiple lines.

Bonus Step: Connect to the supported network

If your eSIM doesn't connect automatically:

Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
Select your eSIM.
Select Network Selection.
Turn OFF Automatic.
Select the network shown in your Airalo app connection instructions.

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. You can verify this by checking your device’s Settings > Cellular.
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 > Cellular. 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.