iPhone Guide ~3 minutes

How to Install eSIM on iPhone

Install a VAYO eSIM on iPhone by opening Settings → Mobile Data, tapping Add eSIM, and scanning the QR code from your confirmation email. Compatible iPhones from XS onward typically finish in a few minutes on Wi-Fi.

How do I add a VAYO eSIM on iPhone?

Buy a plan, open the QR email on another device, then on iPhone go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. Confirm the install, label the line, and enable it for data when you arrive. The phone must be unlocked and eSIM-capable.

Reviewed by VAYO eSIM · Read eSIM FAQs

iPhone eSIM install at a glance

Requirements
iPhone XS or later, iOS 12.1+, carrier-unlocked, and a Wi-Fi connection.
Time
Most installs take about three minutes after you have the QR code.
QR source
Open the VAYO confirmation email on a laptop, tablet, or printed page.
After install
Set VAYO as the data line and turn on Data Roaming at your destination.
Before you start: ✓ iPhone XS or later (iOS 12.1+) ✓ Device unlocked from carrier ✓ Wi-Fi connection ✓ QR code from VAYO email

Installation steps

1

Open Settings on your iPhone

Tap the grey Settings app on your home screen.

2

Go to Mobile Data (or Cellular)

Scroll down and tap Mobile Data (called Cellular in some regions). On iOS 16 and earlier, the option may appear as Mobile Service.

3

Tap "Add eSIM" or "Add Data Plan"

You'll see an Add eSIM button (iOS 17+) or Add Data Plan (iOS 12–16). Tap it.

On iPhone 14 (US model), the path is: Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM.
4

Choose "Use QR Code"

Select Use QR Code. Your camera will open automatically. If prompted, allow camera access.

You can also tap Enter Details Manually if you cannot scan the QR code.
5

Scan your VAYO QR code

Open your VAYO order confirmation email on a different device (another phone, a tablet, or a laptop). Hold your iPhone camera over the QR code until it is detected.

Alternatively, print the email or view it on a monitor — you cannot scan from the same screen you're using for setup.
6

Confirm the installation

A prompt will appear asking you to confirm adding a new mobile plan. Tap Continue and then Add Data Plan. The eSIM profile will download in a few seconds.

7

Label your plan (optional)

iOS may ask you to label the new line. Choose a name like "VAYO Travel" to easily distinguish it from your primary SIM.

8

Set VAYO as your data SIM

Go back to Settings → Mobile Data. Under Mobile Data at the top, select your VAYO line. Then tap the VAYO plan and enable Data Roaming.

Keep your primary SIM set for Calls and Messages so your regular number still works.

Troubleshooting

"QR code is not valid" error
Each QR code can only be scanned once. If you see this error, the code may have already been installed on another device, or you may be scanning a low-quality screenshot. Try viewing the email on a different screen.
"This plan is already installed"
The eSIM profile is already on your phone. Go to Settings → Mobile Data and look for it there — it may just need to be enabled.
Camera won't focus on the QR code
Hold the phone steady about 20–30 cm from the QR code. Make sure the full QR code fits within the camera frame and the screen is bright enough. Try entering the activation code manually instead.
No internet after installation
Make sure VAYO is selected as your data SIM (Settings → Mobile Data) and that Data Roaming is enabled for the VAYO line. Toggle Airplane Mode on and off to reconnect.
"SIM locked" or "Device locked" message
Your iPhone may be carrier-locked. Contact your home carrier to unlock the device before installing a third-party eSIM.

Using Android instead?

Android installation guide →
Get Your eSIM — Instant Activation