Problem solution
eSIM does not work - what to do?
The most common problems and how to solve them quickly.
Your eSIM has not been activated, you have no network or the installation is failing? Don't worry - most problems can be solved in just a few minutes. Here you will find step-by-step instructions for the most common eSIM problems.
Why is my eSIM not working?
eSIM problems occur more frequently than you might think - and almost always have simple causes. The three most common: The device does not support eSIM, the mobile data is not configured correctly or the tariff has not yet been activated.
It can be particularly frustrating when traveling if the eSIM doesn't work after landing. You're at the airport, urgently need internet for navigation or Uber - and nothing works.
The good news: in over 90% of cases, it's due to an incorrect setting on your smartphone. With the right steps, you can be online in just a few minutes.
How to solve the most common eSIM problems
Before contacting support, check these four points. In most cases, the problem will solve itself.
Check device
Make sure that your smartphone supports eSIM. Go to Settings → Mobile → Add eSIM.
Activate data roaming
Activate 'Data roaming' in the mobile phone settings. Without this setting, the eSIM will not work abroad.
Check network selection
Set the network selection to 'Automatic'. Manual network selection can prevent the eSIM from connecting.
Activate tariff
Some tariffs must first be activated manually. Check the provider's app to see if the rate plan is active.
Best eSIM providers
Our top recommendations at a glance.
Airalo
Worldwide eSIM with over 200 countries, fast activation and flexible data packages.
- 200+ countries covered
- Top-rated app
- Fast activation
Nomad
Inexpensive eSIM with stable performance for budget travelers.
- Low rates from € 5
- 100+ countries
- Simple setup
Holafly
eSIM with unlimited data volume for stress-free travel.
- Real unlimited data
- Ideal for longer trips
- No data limit
Direct comparison
| Airalo | Nomad | Holafly | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price starting at | €4 | 5 € | 19 € |
| Support | Chat & E-Mail | Chat 24/7 | |
| App quality | Very good | Good | Good |
| Installation | QR + App | QR + App | QR + App |
| Problem solution | In-App Help | FAQ | Live Chat |
| Rating | 4.8 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
Important details
eSIM is not recognized
If your smartphone does not recognize the eSIM, check the compatibility first. Not all devices support eSIM - even some models from the same manufacturer may differ. For iPhones, you can find the information under Settings → General → About. If 'Available SIM' or 'eSIM' is listed, your device supports the technology. For Android, go to Settings → Network → SIM cards.
No net after landing
The most common problem when traveling. Solution: Activate data roaming (Settings → Mobile → Data roaming). Set the network selection to Automatic. Restart your device. Check in the provider app whether the tariff has already started - some tariffs only start after manual activation.
eSIM Installation fails
If the QR-Code does not work: Make sure that you are connected to Wi-Fi. If necessary, delete old eSIM profiles that are no longer in use. Try installing via the provider's app instead of via the QR-Code. Contact support if the problem persists - you will usually receive a new QR-Code.
Hotspot does not work
Not all eSIM tariffs support tethering/hotspot. Holafly does not allow hotspot in some countries. Airalo supports it on most tariffs. Ubigi is the most reliable provider for hotspot use. Check the tariff conditions before you buy if hotspot is important to you.
Slow speed
If your eSIM is connected but slow: Check whether you are on the right network (4G/LTE instead of 3G). Some tariffs throttle the speed after a certain volume. In crowded areas (airports, city centers), the network may be temporarily overloaded. Restart the mobile connection or change the network manually.
Which trip needs what?
Vacation
You are on vacation and the eSIM does not work? This is often due to deactivated data roaming. Activating it once and restarting the device solves 80% of the problems.
Tip: Install the eSIM at home and test the connection in flight mode.
Business travel
For business-critical connections, we recommend a provider with live chat support. This way, you can get help immediately in the event of problems.
Recommendation: Holafly with 24/7 chat support for fast problem resolution.
Backpacking
Network problems can occur when switching between countries. Regional eSIMs (e.g. for the whole of Asia) avoid this problem completely.
Recommendation: Airalo with regional eSIM instead of individual country tariffs.
Short trip
Every minute counts on a short trip. Install the eSIM before you leave and only activate it at your destination to avoid wasting time.
Tip: Set up the provider app before you travel and buy the tariff in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my eSIM not working?
The most common causes: Data roaming is deactivated, the network selection is set to manual, the tariff has not yet been activated, or the device does not support eSIM.
How do I activate data roaming?
iPhone: Settings → Mobile → Data options → Activate data roaming. Android: Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile → Data roaming.
My QR-Code is not working - what can I do?
Make sure that you are connected to WLAN. Try the app-based installation. Contact support for a new code.
Can I reinstall the eSIM after problems?
Yes, delete the eSIM profile in the settings and scan the QR-Code again, or reinstall via the app.
Which provider has the best support?
Holafly offers 24/7 live chat. Airalo has good in-app support with fast response times. Both are recommendable.
Does my eSIM work in flight mode?
No. All wireless connections are deactivated in flight mode. However, you can activate WLAN separately while flight mode is on.
Do I have to install the eSIM before traveling?
Recommended yes. The installation requires WLAN. There is not always reliable WLAN at the airport.
How do I contact eSIM support?
Most providers offer support via their app, email or live chat. Holafly has the fastest chat support.
eSIM Problems? Mostly easy to solve
Most eSIM problems have simple causes: incorrect settings, deactivated roaming or a tariff that has not yet been activated. With our step-by-step guide, you'll be back online in minutes. For the future: choose a provider with good support.
Compare providers with the best support