Troubleshooting
Landed but eSIM won’t activate
4 min read · Updated September 13, 2026
If your eSIM won't activate after you land, the usual causes are (1) failure to connect to the network automatically, (2) the eSIM line or data roaming not being set, or (3) an activation-timing issue. Check your line and roaming settings, and try selecting the network manually. Also check the product's supported countries, remaining validity, and the status of the provider's app.
Check first
- Whether the installed eSIM line is turned on
- Whether the line used for data is set to the travel eSIM
- Whether data roaming is turned on for that line
Select the network manually
Right after you land, automatic connection can be slow or fail. In Settings, turn off automatic network selection and try picking the local carrier manually from the list. Turning Airplane Mode on for 10 seconds and back off, or restarting, can also help.
Activation-timing gotchas
Depending on the product, "activates immediately on purchase" and "activates when you connect locally" differ. If it's "activates when you connect locally," it's normal for it not to activate before you leave. Conversely, if activation has already started but you weren't using it, your validity period may be ticking down — so check the provider's activation and validity policy.
FAQ
Why doesn't it activate before I leave?
If it's a product that "activates when you connect locally," that's normal. It's designed to activate once you connect to the local network, so after you arrive, turn on data roaming and select a network.
How do I select a network manually?
iPhone: Settings → Cellular → (the line) → Network Selection, turn off Automatic and select manually. Galaxy: Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Network operators, search and select.