Apple introduced eSIM support in 2018 with the iPhone XS and XR, and every new iPhone has supported it since. This guide walks through the whole setup process on iOS 18.
Compatible iPhone models
Full eSIM support:
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
- iPhone XR, XS, XS Max
Important: US iPhone 14 and newer models are eSIM-only — they have no physical SIM tray.
Installing an eSIM step by step (iOS 18)
Preparation
- Make sure your phone is carrier-unlocked
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network
- Update iOS to the latest version (Settings → General → Software Update)
With a QR code (most common method)
- Open: Settings → Mobile Network
- Tap: Add eSIM
- Choose: Use QR Code
- Hold the camera over the QR code — it recognises it automatically
- Tap: Continue to install the profile
- Wait for the download (a few seconds)
- Name the profile (e.g. 'Travel', 'Turkey')
Manual installation (SM-DP+ address)
If the QR code won't scan (e.g. from a screen):
- Settings → Mobile Network → Add eSIM
- Tap: Enter Details Manually
- Enter the SM-DP+ address and the activation code (you'll find these in the eSIM Surfer app)
Dual SIM settings
After installation, you need to set which SIM you use for what:
Mobile Data (internet)
Settings → Mobile Network → Mobile Data → select the eSIM
Default line (calls, texts)
Settings → Mobile Network → Default Voice Line → select the physical SIM (home number)
Data roaming
- eSIM profile → Data Roaming: ON (this is needed for the eSIM to work!)
- Physical SIM → Data Roaming: OFF (so you don't use expensive home roaming)
Managing eSIM profiles
Turning a profile on/off
Settings → Mobile Network → select the profile → Turn On This Line toggle
Deleting a profile
Settings → Mobile Network → select the profile → Delete eSIM
Note: Most eSIM QR codes are single-use — once deleted, they can't be reinstalled!
Managing multiple profiles
iPhone 13 and newer models can store up to 8 profiles. This is especially useful if you travel a lot: a separate profile for Turkey, Thailand, the USA, etc. — you just activate the right one.
Troubleshooting
'eSIM not available' error
- Check that the phone is carrier-unlocked
- Restart your phone
- Try the installation again
'Unable to activate the mobile plan'
- Check your internet connection (Wi-Fi)
- Make sure you haven't already used the QR code
- If it still doesn't work, contact eSIM Surfer support
No internet in the destination
- Check that the eSIM is selected as your mobile data connection
- Turn on data roaming for the eSIM
- Restart your phone
Summary
Setting up an eSIM on iPhone is simple: Settings → Mobile Network → Add eSIM → scan QR code. The most important step afterwards: set the eSIM as your mobile data connection, and turn data roaming on for the eSIM (off for the physical SIM). The whole process takes 2–3 minutes.