Everything you need to know about ZapSim eSIMs
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a tiny chip built directly into your device during manufacturing. Unlike a physical SIM card that you insert manually, the eSIM is already in place — you just scan a QR code to activate a mobile plan on it. It works exactly like a traditional SIM, but without the removable card.
An eSIM lets you access local mobile data as soon as you land, without expensive roaming fees. No need to hunt for a SIM shop at the airport — everything is set up online before you even take off. You keep your main SIM for regular calls and texts, while the eSIM handles your data abroad. It's also more secure than buying a physical SIM from a stranger.
A SIM is a removable card you insert into your phone to connect to a network. An eSIM serves the same purpose but is built into the device — no card to handle. Dual-SIM refers to a phone that can manage two lines at once, whether that's two physical SIMs, two eSIMs, or a combination of both.
An eSIM is the technology that connects your phone to a mobile network. Roaming is when you use your home plan abroad, usually at a high cost. With a travel eSIM like ZapSim, you connect directly to a local network at your destination instead of going through your home carrier — which lets you avoid roaming charges.
eSIM is supported by most recent smartphones: iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20+, Galaxy Z Flip 3+, Galaxy Z Fold 3+, Google Pixel 3a XL and later, as well as recent models from Motorola, OnePlus, Xiaomi and Huawei. Tip: dial *#06# on your phone — if an EID number appears, your device supports eSIM.
After purchase, you receive an email with a QR code. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM Plan → Scan QR Code. On Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code. Activation typically takes less than 5 minutes.
Installing your eSIM requires a stable internet connection. We recommend activating it before departure, from home or on your usual network.
Activation is nearly instant, taking a few minutes at most. Make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection to download the eSIM profile, and that your operating system is up to date to avoid any issues.
Check your spam folder. If you can't find the email, contact our support at [email protected].
Yes, most compatible phones allow you to install multiple eSIM profiles and switch between them as needed.
On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → select the line you want to use for data. You can also set which SIM handles calls and texts. On Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs, then choose the preferred SIM for data, calls and texts.
Some plans are rechargeable — look for the Rechargeable icon on the Shop page. If your plan is rechargeable, go to your eSIM management page to top up in just a few clicks.
No, nothing is lost — as long as you recharge while your plan is still active, before its validity period ends. A recharge adds to what you already have: your remaining data and remaining days stack with the new block. For example, if you have 1 GB left over 7 days and you recharge 1 GB / 7 days, you get 2 GB for 14 days in total. Just remember to recharge before expiry: a top-up is always done on an eSIM that is already active.
On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → select the eSIM to remove → Delete eSIM and confirm. On Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → select the eSIM → Remove. This operation does not affect your device, but the associated plan will be deactivated.
If you kept your original QR code or manual setup details (SM-DP+ address), you can try reinstalling the eSIM using them again. Otherwise, contact our support at [email protected] to request a reissue of your eSIM.
Yes, but the process varies. Some devices offer a built-in eSIM transfer tool in settings (recent iOS and Android). You can also log into your ZapSim management portal to request a transfer. If you still have your original QR code, try scanning it on the new phone. If you run into issues, our support team can help.
No. An eSIM is linked to the hardware of the device it's installed on and can only work on one device at a time. Attempting to activate it on a second device will cause an activation failure or a loss of connection on the first.
Yes, our eSIMs are designed to work in over 200 destinations worldwide. Check coverage on the Shop page before purchasing.
No, your regular number stays the same. ZapSim plans are data-only — they don't have an associated phone number. Your main SIM continues to receive your calls and texts normally while the ZapSim eSIM handles your mobile data.
ZapSim plans provide mobile data only. However, you can make calls and send messages through apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Telegram or Messenger, which use your data connection. For traditional calls and texts, keep your main SIM active.
Yes! WhatsApp works over your data connection, so it works perfectly with a ZapSim eSIM. Your existing WhatsApp account stays active — no need to reconfigure it. This also applies to other messaging apps like Telegram, Signal or Messenger.
Signal quality is identical to a physical SIM — it depends on network coverage, your phone's antenna and your environment, not the SIM type. As for battery, the eSIM itself doesn't consume more than a regular SIM. However, if two lines are active at the same time, battery may drain slightly faster. Consider disabling the line you're not using.