How to Install USA eSIM: Full Guide 10 steps

In this article we would be discussing How to install USA eSIM full guide please check the following points to make sure that you can install and activate your eSIM successfully:

Installing a USA eSIM (embedded SIM) is a simple process, and it can be done in a few steps. Here’s a general guide to help you install an eSIM on your compatible smartphone:

Steps to Install an eSIM in the USA

1. Ensure Your Device is eSIM Compatible

Before proceeding, make sure that your smartphone supports eSIM technology. Most newer models, like iPhones (XS and later), Google Pixel (3 and later), and Samsung Galaxy (S20 and later), come with eSIM functionality.

2. Choose a Carrier that Supports eSIM

Many U.S. carriers support eSIM, including:

• AT&T
• T-Mobile
• Verizon
• Mint Mobile
• Google Fi
• Visible

Check with the carrier to ensure they offer eSIM activation.

3. Get an eSIM Activation Code

Once you’ve selected a carrier and plan:

• Request an eSIM from the carrier. You may get an activation code in the form of a QR code, manual setup information, or carrier app instructions.
• If you’re doing this online or through the carrier’s app, you’ll usually get a QR code via email.
• If in-store, the carrier representative will provide the QR code on paper.

4. Install the eSIM

The installation process may differ slightly between iPhones, Android devices, and specific carriers, but the general steps are similar:

For iPhones (iPhone XS and later)

1. Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data).
2. Tap Add Cellular Plan.
3. Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code provided by the carrier.
4. Follow the prompts to complete the setup.

Alternatively, if you receive manual setup details from the carrier, you can enter them manually:

1. Under Settings → Cellular, tap Add Cellular Plan.
2. Select Enter Details Manually and input the necessary info provided by the carrier.

For Android Devices (Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, etc.)

1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network → Add Carrier.
2. Select Don’t have a SIM card? or Add eSIM.
3. Scan the QR code provided by the carrier, or enter the details manually.

Some Android devices might have slightly different steps, but you can find the eSIM settings under Network or SIM Card settings.

5. Set the eSIM as Your Primary Line (Optional)

Once installed, you can choose to make the eSIM your primary line (for calls, texts, and data) or use it as a secondary number if you have a physical SIM card as well.

• iPhone: In Settings → Cellular, you can customize which line is used for data, calls, or texts.
• Android: In the SIM Card Manager or Network & Internet settings, you can assign data and calling preferences for the eSIM.

6. Restart Your Device

After the eSIM is installed, restart your device to ensure the settings take effect and that the eSIM is properly activated.

7. Test Your eSIM

Make a test call, send a text message, or check if your data connection is working to confirm that the eSIM is active.

Additional Tips:

• Some carriers may have their own app to manage eSIM installation (e.g., T-Mobile’s app lets you download the eSIM directly).
• If you are traveling and getting an international eSIM, you can usually install it ahead of time and activate it when you arrive in the U.S.

By following these steps, you should be able to install and activate an eSIM on your device successfully.

• Your phone is eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked. List of eSIM compatible devices.
• You can access a stable Internet connection, preferably WiFi. It is because you need to download an eSIM profile/data plan to your phone in order to use eSIM. So, Internet connection is REQUIRED.

After checking whether or not your phone can use eSIM, you can be sure that you can use it. Now, you can take steps to install an eSIM for your upcoming trip.

Steps to take:

1. Install your eSIM the day before you leave for travel and activate during your flight or when you arrive at your destination. Because an eSIM plan has a limited number of days to use, so if you set up too early, the plan will not last for your whole trip. 
2. Select the type of device on which you are going to install an eSIM on (iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel)

How to install an eSIM on different devices?

Each device will have slightly different steps to install and activate the eSIM. Below, select the device which you are going to install a tourist eSIM on to see step-by-step instructions and helpful video guide:

Select the device which you are going to install an eSIM on

What you need to know about installing an eSIM?

• There are two ways of installing an eSIM on your device:
  • QR code method
  • Manual Method
• Although we guide you through both, the QR code method is highly recommended. 
• The setup should take about 2-3 minutes only.