Does my phone support eSIM? How to check in under a minute

A travel eSIM only works on a phone that has an eSIM chip and isn't locked to one network. Most recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones have both. Plenty of phones don't, including many budget Android models. Checking takes under a minute, so do it before you buy.

1. Dial *#06#

Open your phone's keypad and type *#06#. If the screen shows a line called EID with a long 32-digit number, your phone has an eSIM chip. If you only see IMEI numbers, it probably doesn't.

Some Android phones don't show the EID here even when they support eSIM, so if you see nothing, try the next check before you give up.

2. Look in Settings

• iPhone: open Settings, then Mobile Service (called Cellular or Mobile Data on some versions). If you see Add eSIM, you're set.
• Samsung Galaxy: open Settings, then Connections, then SIM manager. Look for Add eSIM.
• Google Pixel: open Settings, then Network & internet, then SIMs. Tap the add button and look for an option to download a SIM.
• Other Android phones: type "eSIM" into the search bar at the top of Settings. Menu names change from brand to brand. If nothing comes up, the phone most likely doesn't support eSIM.

3. Make sure your phone isn't network-locked

A phone bought on contract, or from a network's own shop, may only accept that network's SIMs. A locked phone can't use a travel eSIM even if it has the chip.

• iPhone: go to Settings, then General, then About, and find Carrier Lock. "No SIM restrictions" means you're fine.
• Android: there's no single menu for this. The quickest test is to put in a SIM from a different network. If it works, the phone is unlocked. Otherwise, ask the network you bought it from.

If your phone is locked, the network that sold it can usually unlock it, often once any contract is paid off.

4. Search for your model

Our supported devices page lists eSIM-ready phones by brand. Search for your model to double-check.

One thing to watch: some models are sold in versions without eSIM, for example some iPhones sold in mainland China and Hong Kong. If your model is on the list but checks 1 and 2 show nothing, trust what your phone shows.

What if my phone can't use eSIM?

Then a travel eSIM won't work on it, and we'd rather you find out now than after you've paid. Your options are roaming on your home network or a local SIM card bought when you land. Our guide to eSIM or roaming compares them.

All clear?

Find your destination on our destinations page, then follow our guide to installing your eSIM before you fly. Set it up at home on Wi-Fi and switch it on when you land.