iPhone eSIM compatibility and setup
If your iPhone is an XS, XR, or anything newer, it supports eSIM. That covers every iPhone released since late 2018, including every SE from 2020 on. There are two exceptions: iPhones sold in mainland China, and iPhones still locked to a carrier.
Which iPhones support eSIM
iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, and every iPhone released after them. That includes the 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 families, every Pro, Plus, Max, and mini in between, and the SE (2020) and SE (2022).
iPhones older than the XS, such as the iPhone X, 8, and 7, do not support eSIM.
US-market iPhones from the 14 onward have no SIM tray at all. They are eSIM-only, so a travel eSIM is the natural way to get data abroad.
The exceptions
iPhones bought in mainland China have historically shipped without eSIM, even when the same model supports it everywhere else. If your iPhone came from mainland China, run the *#06# test below before you buy.
A carrier-locked iPhone refuses any other SIM, including an eSIM. Ask your carrier to unlock it before your trip. Most will if the phone is paid off.
Check in 30 seconds
Open the dial pad and type *#06#. If a line labeled EID appears, your iPhone supports eSIM.
You can also open Settings, then Cellular (called Mobile Service on newer iOS versions). If you see Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan, you are good.
How to install an eSIMion eSIM on iPhone
Your eSIM arrives by email. The same email has three ways in, so one of them always works.
Easiest: open the email on your iPhone and tap the install link. iOS walks you through the rest. No scanning needed.
QR code: if the email is open on another screen, go to Settings, Cellular, Add eSIM, Use QR Code, and scan the code in the email.
Manual: in the same Add eSIM flow, choose Enter Details Manually and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code from the email.
The install code works once. If an install fails partway, do not retry the same code. Use the retry option on your install page, or email support@esimion.com.
After the install
Set the eSIM as your data line in Settings, Cellular, Cellular Data. Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM line only. Keep your home SIM on for calls and texts, with its own data roaming off.