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What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your device. It lets you activate a mobile data plan without a physical card. Most phones from 2018 onward support eSIM. That means no swapping, no inserting, no small pieces of plastic to keep track of. Just a simple way to stay connected, wherever you go.
How does an eSIM work?
After purchasing your eSIM, simply tap the install button or scan the QR code in your email to activate your data plan. Your device will guide you through a few straightforward steps, so you can get online right away or as soon as you arrive at your destination.
For more details, visit our How it works page.
Do I need a physical SIM card?
No. If your device supports eSIM, there’s no need for a physical SIM card at all.
Does my device support eSIM?
Check our list of supported devices for the most common models. If your phone was released after 2018, it most likely supports eSIM. You can also look in your device settings under Cellular or Network to see if there’s an option to add an eSIM. If it’s there, you’re good to go. If you’re still unsure, send us a message. We’re here to help.
Can I use eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Yes. Many devices that support dual SIM let you use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time, so you can have two active plans on one phone.
If your device doesn’t support dual SIM functionality, remember that iPhones can store up to 10 eSIMs, while Android devices typically store between 5 and 7. However, only one eSIM can be active at a time. We recommend labeling your eSIMs to keep things organized and avoid confusion.
What are the benefits of using an eSIM?
eSIM gives you the freedom to stay connected and adapt to your needs without dealing with physical SIM cards or contracts in unfamiliar languages. When you travel, you can go online instantly or as soon as you land. It saves you time searching for Wi-Fi or local SIM cards and helps you avoid unsecured public networks in unfamiliar places. So you’re ready from the start — check Google Maps, let your family know you’ve arrived, or book your ride to the hotel. Whatever you need, you’re prepared.
Is an eSIM secure?
Yes. eSIMs meet the same security standards as physical SIM cards and are provided through our trusted local network partners, so your connection stays secure.
Why do you offer a Plus plan?
Some eSIMs connect to the internet through a different country than the one you’re in. This is known as IP breakout. Your data is routed through a network hub in another country, which allows travel eSIMs to manage connections efficiently and serve many users from a central point.
In rare cases, certain apps or websites may limit features when they detect a Hong Kong IP address. If you prefer, we also offer options that do not route through Hong Kong, so you can avoid these restrictions.
How do I install an eSIM?
After your purchase, you’ll receive an email with your eSIM details. For both iOS and Android, the easiest way to install it is to tap the install button in your email and follow the steps on your screen. If you prefer, you can also scan the QR code included.
You can find step-by-step guides by watching our how-to videos on our YouTube channel. Just click the YouTube button in your email to go straight to our channel.
Can I install my eSIM before I travel?
Yes. You can pre-install your eSIM up to 180 days in advance with a Fixed Plan, or up to 30 days in advance with a Daily Plan. Just make sure you complete the installation before the date mentioned in your email.
How long does activation take?
Installing and activating your eSIM usually takes between two and five minutes. If you’re already in your destination country, activation often happens instantly, depending on the local network. That means you can be online just minutes after your purchase.
Does Data Roaming need to be on?
Yes. To connect to local networks and work properly, your eSIM needs Data Roaming to be turned on.
Can I reinstall my eSIM?
Yes. You can reinstall your eSIM by scanning the same QR code used during your initial setup. You can do this once to restore your eSIM profile if it was accidentally deleted before activation. If you delete your eSIM after activation, you may need to purchase a new one.
Please note that your eSIM works on one device only and cannot be shared or transferred to another device after the first installation.
What if the QR code doesn’t work?
If the QR code doesn’t work, don’t worry. Your email includes other simple ways to install your eSIM. Just check the message for alternative setup options and you’ll be connected in no time.
What if my eSIM isn’t connecting?
Check your signal bars. If there’s no signal, restart your device or switch on flight mode for a few seconds to refresh the connection. If you have signal but no data, make sure your newly purchased eSIM is selected for Cellular Data. Go to Settings, then Cellular, then Cellular Data, and choose your eSIM.
A few things to keep in mind: the first connection can take anywhere from a few minutes up to an hour. Turn off any VPN settings, and if needed, try switching your eSIM off and on again.
Can I use my eSIM right after purchase?
Yes. Depending on the local network, the first connection can take anywhere from a few minutes up to an hour.
Can I use my eSIM for calls or texts?
No. All our plans are data only. You can use messaging apps like WhatsApp, LINE, or KakaoTalk, which send messages over the internet.
Can I use the eSIM with Wi-Fi calling?
Yes. You can use our data plan for any service that runs over the internet, including Wi-Fi calling.
Which countries and regions do you support?
We support more than 150 countries. You can start searching directly on our homepage. Simply type the country you’re visiting and we’ll show you the available Fixed Plan or Daily Plan for that destination. Soon, we’ll also introduce regional plans, so you can stay connected as you move between countries within the same region.
Can I transfer my eSIM to another device?
No. Once your eSIM is installed on a device, it cannot be transferred to another one. Before installation, you can share your eSIM email or the QR code with the person who will use the plan. After installation, the eSIM is locked to that device. So make sure you choose the phone you want to use at your destination.
Can I switch plans?
No, switching to a different plan is not possible. If you’re unsure which plan to choose, we recommend starting with a Fixed Plan for more flexibility. You can top up anytime, and beginning with a smaller amount is always a safe option.
Can I top up my data?
Yes. If you have an active Fixed Plan installed, you can top up your data and extend your plan’s validity. This can be done up to 10 to 12 times
For example, if you have a 1GB 7-day Thailand eSIM plan, you can add another 1GB with a 7-day extension. Your data and validity will combine, giving you 2GB for 14 days. Each top-up adds to your existing data and extends the validity accordingly. Please note that top-ups are only possible while your eSIM is active. You cannot top up before activation or after your plan has expired.
As your plan approaches expiration, you’ll receive email and SMS reminders. You can also top up proactively and monitor your usage anytime through your account portal after activation.
Can I use my eSIM as a hotspot?
Yes. Most devices allow you to use your eSIM data to create a personal hotspot and share your connection with other devices. Simply check your device settings to enable the hotspot feature.
On iOS, APN settings are usually configured automatically. In Japan, you may need to manually set the APN tovmobile.jp. If you experience hotspot issues on Android, please contact our support team and we’ll help you resolve it.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and most major debit cards. You can also pay with Shop Pay, Meta Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
We’re continuously working to expand our payment options. If your preferred method isn’t available, let us know and we’ll look into adding it.
Can I cancel my purchase and get a refund?
If your eSIM has not been installed or activated, we can offer a refund in the form of store credit. Once the eSIM has been installed or activated, store credit is no longer available.
Will I get a local phone number with my eSIM?
No. Our plans are data-only and do not include a phone number.