Why use an eSIM in Asia?
Asia is one of the world's most popular multi-country travel regions, and one of the trickiest for data. Island-hopping in Southeast Asia, a Japan-Korea rail trip, or weeks across India and Thailand all mean managing connectivity across multiple borders - which adds up fast. A travel eSIM simplifies everything: one purchase, multiple countries, flat-rate pricing.
Browse plans by destination
We offer eSIM plans for individual Asian countries as well as multi-country regional plans. Select your destination below to compare available plans, or browse the full catalog to find a plan that covers your itinerary.
Multi-country Asia plans: If you're visiting several countries, for example a Southeast Asia backpacker route or a Japan + South Korea combo, look for regional plans in our catalog. They may cover your full itinerary under a single purchase. Use the search on the destinations page to find Asia regional options.
Get connected in 3 steps
Your Asia travel eSIM, ready before you land. No store visit, no SIM swap between countries.
How to install your Asia eSIM
Under two minutes, no technical skills needed.
- Open Settings on your iPhone or Android, then go to Cellular / Mobile → Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code from your email, or tap "Enter details manually" and paste the activation code.
- Label the plan something like "Asia Data" so you know which line is which.
- Enable Data Roaming under your new eSIM plan in cellular settings.
- Arrive in Asia. Your eSIM connects to a local network automatically in each country it covers.
Tip: Set up the eSIM before your flight. It won't use data until you're in a covered country. Activating at home in good Wi-Fi is much easier than at a busy airport.
Asia connectivity tips
A few things worth knowing before you travel across Asia with an eSIM.
Device compatibility
ApexLinx Asia eSIM works with most modern unlocked smartphones. Check before you buy.
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and newer
- iPhone SE (2nd gen, 2020) and newer
- All iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 models
Must be carrier-unlocked. Check: Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock.
- Google Pixel 3 and newer
- Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer (most models)
- Many recent Motorola, OnePlus, and Xiaomi flagships
Android eSIM support varies by model. Check: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager.
Not sure if your device is compatible? Ask our support team and we'll confirm before you buy.
What travelers say
What to expect
Common questions about Asia eSIM
Everything you need to know before you fly. More answers at our full FAQ page.
What is an eSIM and how does it work?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you scan a QR code in your phone's Settings. Your Asia data plan activates in minutes - no store visit, no mail delivery, no SIM tray needed.
Can I use one eSIM across multiple Asian countries?
Yes. Many of our Asia plans cover 10-20+ countries on a single data allowance. Popular multi-country routes like Thailand-Vietnam-Cambodia or Japan-South Korea are supported by regional plans. Check your specific plan to confirm which countries are included.
Does my phone need to be unlocked?
Yes. Your device must be carrier-unlocked to use an international eSIM. Check on iPhone: Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock. If it shows "No SIM restrictions," you're good. Not sure? Ask support before buying.
When does my Asia plan start - on install or on arrival?
You can install (scan the QR code) at home before departure. Your data validity period typically starts from first use in a covered country, not from installation. Set it up over home Wi-Fi and your allowance is untouched until you land.
Can I keep using my regular phone number in Asia?
Yes. ApexLinx eSIM plans are data only. Your primary SIM stays in your phone and your home number remains active. Use ApexLinx data for maps, Grab, messaging, bookings - while staying reachable on your regular number.
Will my eSIM work in Japan and South Korea?
Yes. Both countries have excellent 4G LTE and growing 5G networks. ApexLinx offers single-country plans for Japan and South Korea, as well as regional plans that include both. Your phone must be carrier-unlocked to activate.
What happens when I run out of data?
Your data connection pauses when your allowance is used. There are no automatic charges or overage fees. You can purchase an additional plan from ApexLinx, or use hotel and café Wi-Fi. Asia has excellent Wi-Fi in most hotels, malls, and coworking spaces.
Does the Asia eSIM include a local phone number?
No. ApexLinx Asia eSIM plans are data-only. They do not include a local phone number. Your home number stays active. For local calling, apps like WhatsApp, LINE (popular in Southeast Asia), KakaoTalk (South Korea), and FaceTime work over data.
Select your destination and get connected across 20+ Asian countries.