📱 How to Install eSIM on iPhone & iPad

Follow this step-by-step guide to install your PikaSim eSIM on your iPhone or iPad. We'll show you two easy methods: the quick activation link and QR code scanning.

⚡ Method 1: Quick Activation Link (Recommended)

This is the fastest way to install your eSIM - just one tap!

1

Open the activation link on your iPhone

The activation link was sent to you in your confirmation email. It looks like: https://esim-api.ukrp.net/...

2

Tap "Continue" when prompted

Your iPhone will recognize the eSIM activation link and show a prompt to add the cellular plan.

3

Label your eSIM (optional)

Give your eSIM a name like "Travel" or "PikaSim" to easily identify it.

4

Enable Data Roaming

After installation: Go to Settings → Cellular → [Your eSIM]
Turn on "Data Roaming" - this is required for eSIMs to work!

💡 Pro Tip: Save the activation link! You can use it to reinstall your eSIM anytime if needed (for example, after a phone reset).

📷 Method 2: QR Code Scanning

Use this method if you have the QR code printed or displayed on another device.

1

Open Settings on your iPhone

Tap the Settings app (⚙️) on your home screen.

2

Navigate to Cellular settings

iOS 17+: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM
iOS 16 and older: Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan

3

Select "Use QR Code"

Choose the option to scan a QR code. Your camera will open automatically.

4

Scan the QR code

Point your iPhone camera at the QR code from your confirmation email. Make sure the entire QR code is visible in the frame.

5

Follow the prompts

Tap "Continue" and follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation.

6

Enable Data Roaming

Go to Settings → Cellular → [Your eSIM]
Turn on "Data Roaming"

⚠️ Important: Enable Data Roaming

You MUST enable "Data Roaming" for your eSIM to work. This is required for all international eSIM plans, including PikaSim. Without data roaming enabled, your eSIM will not connect to the internet.

How to enable: Settings → Cellular → [Your eSIM name] → Turn ON "Data Roaming"

📱 Compatible iPhone & iPad Models

eSIM is supported on these devices:

iPhone 15 (all models)
iPhone 14 (all models)
iPhone 13 (all models)
iPhone 12 (all models)
iPhone 11 (all models)
iPhone XS / XS Max
iPhone XR
iPhone SE (2020 & 2022)
iPad Pro (2018 & later)
iPad Air (2019 & later)
iPad (7th gen & later)
iPad Mini (5th gen & later)

Note: iPhone 14 and later (US models) do NOT have a physical SIM card slot - they only support eSIM.

🔧 Troubleshooting Common Issues

Q: My eSIM installed but I have no internet connection

A: Make sure "Data Roaming" is enabled for your eSIM. Go to Settings → Cellular → [Your eSIM] → Turn ON Data Roaming.

Q: The QR code won't scan

A: Try these solutions:

  • Ensure good lighting - the camera needs to see the QR code clearly
  • Make sure the QR code is not blurry or pixelated
  • Try using the activation link instead (Method 1 above)
  • If on another screen, increase the brightness

Q: I don't see "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan" option

A: This usually means:

  • Your iPhone model doesn't support eSIM (must be iPhone XS/XR or newer)
  • Your carrier has locked eSIM functionality (contact your carrier)
  • You need to update to the latest iOS version

Q: Can I have multiple eSIMs on my iPhone?

A: Yes! iPhones can store multiple eSIMs (up to 8-10 depending on model), but only 1-2 can be active at once. You can switch between them in Settings → Cellular.

Q: I accidentally deleted my eSIM, can I reinstall it?

A: Yes! Use the activation link from your confirmation email to reinstall. The link doesn't expire and can be used multiple times.

Need More Help?

If you're still having trouble installing your eSIM, we're here to help!
Visit our FAQ page or contact support.

💡 Need to Top Up Your eSIM?

When you run low on data, you can easily top up your eSIM without creating an account:
Visit https://pikasim.com/top-up and enter your ICCID number (found in your confirmation email).

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