An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you scan a QR code or tap in an activation code in your phone's Settings. Your data plan is ready in minutes.

No trip to a carrier store. No waiting for a SIM to arrive in the mail. Just scan, confirm, and go.

Most modern smartphones support eSIM. Here's a quick reference:

• iPhone: XS, XS Max, XR, and all iPhone 11 through 16 models. Also iPhone SE (2nd gen, 2020) and newer.
• Android: Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and many recent Motorola, OnePlus, and Xiaomi flagships.

Your phone must also be carrier-unlocked for international data to work. On iPhone, check under Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock. If it says "No SIM restrictions," you're good.

Not sure? Ask us before you buy and we'll check for you.

iPhones can store multiple eSIM profiles (up to 8 on newer models), but typically only use one at a time alongside your physical SIM. You can switch between stored eSIMs in Settings.

Android support varies by manufacturer and model, but most eSIM-capable Android devices support at least 1–2 active eSIM profiles.

After purchase, you'll receive a QR code by email. Here's how to install it:

• iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → scan the code.
• Android (Samsung): Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → scan the code.
• Android (Pixel): Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add eSIM → scan the code.

The whole setup takes about two minutes. You'll need a Wi-Fi connection to scan the QR code.

Install before you leave home. You need a Wi-Fi connection to scan the QR code and download the eSIM profile, so do it before you're in the airport or roaming.

Don't worry about wasting data. Most plans start your validity period from first use (when you connect to a network in your destination country), not from installation. Your plan page will confirm this.

After installing, leave the eSIM plan set to turn on automatically when you land, or switch to it manually once you arrive.

All ApexLinx plans must be activated within 180 days of purchase. This gives you plenty of flexibility to buy a plan ahead of your trip and activate it whenever you're ready.

Once you activate (scan the QR code and connect to data for the first time), your plan's validity period begins as described in the plan details — not from the purchase date.

If you have any questions about your plan's activation window, contact our support team.

Yes. Even though eSIM data doesn't incur your home carrier's roaming fees, your phone still needs Data Roaming enabled for the eSIM line to connect abroad.

• iPhone: Settings → Cellular → [ApexLinx plan line] → Data Roaming → ON
• Android: Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Data Roaming → ON

Make sure Data Roaming is off for your home SIM line to avoid surprise charges from your regular carrier.

An APN (Access Point Name) is a network setting that tells your phone how to connect to a mobile data network. Most ApexLinx eSIMs configure the APN automatically when you install the QR code.

If your data isn't working after activation, check your confirmation email for APN instructions. Your support team can also walk you through it. Just contact us with your device model.

Yes. ApexLinx eSIMs are data-only plans. Your primary SIM card stays in your phone and your regular number stays active. You can still receive calls and texts on your home number (your carrier's rates apply for those), while using ApexLinx for all your internet data: maps, apps, messaging, browsing.

It's the best of both worlds: keep your number, skip the roaming data charges.

Hotspot and tethering support depends on the specific plan. Most ApexLinx plans support it. Look for the hotspot icon or note in the plan details before you purchase.

If a plan doesn't mention hotspot support, assume it's not included. If you're not sure, ask us before buying.

Once your data allowance is used up, your connection will typically stop (or slow to a very low speed depending on the plan). You won't get surprise overage charges.

If you need more data, you can purchase a new plan from ApexLinx for the same destination. Plans are additive on most devices. Just install the new QR code alongside your existing profile.

ApexLinx offers plans for 200+ countries and regions, including all of Europe, Japan, Mexico, Southeast Asia, Australia, the Americas, and many more.

Coverage and available networks vary by destination. Search your destination on our homepage to see what's available and compare plans.

It depends on the plan type. Regional plans (like our Europe plan) work across all covered countries in that region. Single-country plans only work in that specific country.

If you're visiting multiple destinations, look for a regional plan or multi-country plan. These are clearly labeled in the plan details.

Try these steps in order:

• Check Data Roaming: make sure it's ON for your ApexLinx eSIM line (see the activation question above).
• Check your active data line: confirm your phone is using the eSIM line for data, not your home SIM (Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data on iPhone).
• Verify the APN: check your confirmation email for APN settings and compare them to what's in your phone.
• Restart your phone: a restart after eSIM installation often resolves connection issues.
• Check coverage: confirm you're in a covered area for your plan.

Still no luck? Email our support team with your order email and device model and we'll figure it out.

Your QR code is sent by email immediately after your payment is confirmed. Check these first:

• Your spam or junk folder
• Any promotions/updates tabs (Gmail)
• The email address you used at checkout (double-check for typos)

If it's been more than 15 minutes and you still can't find it, contact support with your order details and we'll resend it.

eSIM QR codes are typically single-use: once scanned and activated, they can't be rescanned on a new device or after deletion. If you delete your eSIM profile by accident, contact us and we'll do our best to help, though reissuing depends on the provider's policy for that specific plan.

Tip: don't delete your eSIM profile until your trip is fully over.

We offer refunds in certain situations, for example if your device turns out to be incompatible, if you purchased a duplicate plan by accident, or if we're unable to fulfil your order.

See our full Refund Policy for details on what's covered. To request a refund, contact support with your order details.

Orders can be cancelled (and refunded) before the eSIM QR code has been activated. Once a plan is activated, the data has been provisioned and we're unable to reverse the transaction. If you need help, reach out as soon as possible. The sooner we hear from you, the more options we have.