We recommend installing your eSIM before you travel, as soon as you've bought it, while you have a stable internet connection — Wi-Fi or your home mobile data. Installing early doesn't touch your plan's data or start the clock; for most plans, the clock only starts when you first connect at your destination. (Already at your destination when you buy? In that case just install it right away.)
Before you start
Stay connected to the internet during the whole installation.
Don't exit or interrupt the installation process.
Give your new eSIM a recognizable label (like "Vuoly USA"), and don't use the same label for more than one eSIM.
Don't delete the eSIM — it can only be installed once.
Install on your phone with one tap
After your purchase, you'll get an email with your eSIM, and you'll also see it in your Vuoly dashboard after the order confirmation.
If you're on your phone, just tap Install on iPhone or Install on Android — from either the email or your Vuoly dashboard — then follow the prompts and wait for the installation to finish.
On iPhone: when the "Activate your eSIM" prompt appears, tap Activate. If your iPhone asks how you'll use the line, choose the option for traveling abroad and data only or data and calls depending on the eSIM type.
On Android: confirm the prompts to add the eSIM and finish setup.
If you're on a computer, you won't see an install button in your Vuoly dashboard. Instead, scan the QR code with the phone you'll use, or use the manual details to add it directly in your phone settings.
If you can't use the Install button
Direct install is available on iPhones with iOS 17.4 or newer, and on Android phones running Android 10 or newer with up-to-date Google Play services. By now, most phones are running these versions or newer. But if you can't use the Install button — or if you need to install on a different device — you have a couple of options:
QR code: open the eSIM on a computer or second device and scan the QR with the phone you'll use.
Manual install: enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your eSIM in your phone's settings.
Buying for someone else?
You can forward them the confirmation email, or show them the QR code to scan on their phone. See: Can I buy an eSIM for someone else?
FAQ
When does my plan start?
For most plans, the clock starts when you first connect at your destination — so you can install now and travel with it ready. A few plans start when the eSIM is issued; for those, you chose a start date when you bought. See: When does my plan start?
Where can I see that my eSIM is installed?
After installing, it appears in your phone's settings next to your other SIMs or plans. If you don't see it, it may not have installed correctly — and remember, don't delete it if you plan to use it.
How do I use my eSIM at my destination?
Once you arrive, turn on the line, choose it for data, and enable data roaming. See: How to start using your eSIM.
Why isn't my eSIM working?
Your eSIM only works in its coverage area. If you've arrived and still have trouble, see our troubleshooting guide. See: Why isn't my eSIM working?