If you cannot connect your Airalo eSIM to the internet after installation, make sure you’ve followed the Connection instructions in the Airalo app.

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 days of your data plan. 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. 

Where can I find connection instructions?

You can find them in your Airalo account:

1. Navigate to My eSIMs
2. Select your eSIM
3. Tap View details
4. Go Ready to use your eSIM → Connect to a network
5. Tap 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.

After completing these steps, your Airalo eSIM should connect to the internet. If you still have issues, please contact us via chat in the app or on the website by clicking the chat bubble.