---
title: "iPhone eSIM Installation - Before Your Trip"
description: "Installing an eSIM before your trip doesn't start the validity period. You can set everything up weeks before you travel. Follow these steps to install your travel eSIM on your iPhone."
url: https://help.wonderconnect.com/en/articles/19-iphone-esim-installation-before-your-trip
collection: "eSIM Installation"
updated: 2026-10-25
language: en
alternates: [pl]
---

# iPhone eSIM Installation -  Before Your Trip

Installing an eSIM before your trip doesn't start the validity period. You can set everything up weeks before you travel. Follow these steps to install your travel eSIM on your iPhone.

First, choose one of the following installation methods:

-   [**Installation With the WonderConnect Mobile App**](https://help.wonderconnect.com/en/articles/19-iphone-esim-installation-before-your-trip.md#heading-1-start-installation-in-the-wonderconnect-mobile-app)
    
-   [**Installation Without the WonderConnect Mobile App or**](https://help.wonderconnect.com/en/articles/19-iphone-esim-installation-before-your-trip.md#heading-8-installation-without-the-wonderconnect-mobile-app-or-for-older-ios-versions) [**for Older iOS Versions**](https://help.wonderconnect.com/en/articles/19-iphone-esim-installation-before-your-trip.md#heading-8-installation-without-the-wonderconnect-mobile-app-or-for-older-ios-versions)
    

## Installation With the WonderConnect Mobile App

> **Info:** **This method is for iPhones with iOS 17.5 and later**
>
> If your iPhone has an older iOS version, or you don't have the WonderConnect app, please [click here for the instructions.](https://help.wonderconnect.com/en/articles/19-iphone-esim-installation-before-your-trip.md#heading-8-installation-without-the-wonderconnect-mobile-app-or-for-older-ios-versions)

### Start Installation in the WonderConnect Mobile App

1.  Open the WonderConnect app:
    
    -   Tap **Start installation** on the purchase confirmation view or tap **Install eSIM** on the home screen.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/waeIS917xhvlTsE6TtXB75EEyPIKgk6OPdTBe4VMuhKtB7QOe0yWeHIUuhCNIDVu69bApz19pI0.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/FxuZ9vj63JOqmAiaKlMejg9eOU1wlgCx5DirfzLc6WR4wnOlEYpFlydv60PiZBNKjFxmDtjLKik.png)
    

2.  Ensure you have a stable internet connection. This is essential for a successful installation.
    
    -   Tap the **Let's install: open guide** button.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/4Wm4Rer1gDxxu2chB2vU0AeL02tkfIg4xTgoKdQJDv1bT2JYnWJnThC33RHIKMyvCVWC9TpSopm.png)
    
3.  Choose when you want to start using your mobile data:
    
    -   Select 🏠 **No - I haven't traveled yet.**
        
    -   Tap **Continue.**
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/Q3okFGO7vHTwJR1n2Iri3eXMcjLT3ECP0w371yJ74SHClpZ7jBqumgkKlkcXaB4PF5FWsk6Uazb.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/DYy3Ff5h1yPWqii4K13NOGRadXmkFpvf4wFvQu9xw891OfqOtRIEAbmRUx0PrTzUNhqsBba5Rdv.png)
    

### Tap Install eSIM

4.  On the instructions view:
    
    -   Tap the **Install eSIM** button.
        
    -   When the "Activate New eSIM" pop-up appears, tap **Allow**.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/pbNEGJqPQ1iM7V3TB4i9r8LsGSvNHpB1sibMtt5WbmVkoNJc0VGgPLBgWz881kABNDLYsZKaODv.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/APqMSFGo2Pr0m2zynIpObEJPz4Nxrjva4YQhVzMZlw2wpzlahQTQELnXNYzmy9Pmpa3OLvhfoPi.png)
    

> **Warning:** **You don’t see the Activate New eSIM pop-up?**
>
> Please [click here for instructions for older iOS versions.](https://help.wonderconnect.com/en/articles/19-iphone-esim-installation-before-your-trip.md#heading-8-installation-without-the-wonderconnect-mobile-app-or-for-older-ios-versions)

> **Error:** If your eSIM covers more than one country and you're currently in one of them, installing it now can start your plan's validity - the eSIM may connect to a supported network as soon as it's installed. To avoid losing validity, install shortly before your trip. You can see the countries your plan covers in your eSIM details.

### Complete the Setup Process in the Settings

> **Success:** When you see the "Activating eSIM" screen with the message "**You can continue using your iPhone while your eSIM is activating,**" you may not see the double-signal icon right away. This doesn't mean the installation failed! The eSIM status and signal icon will automatically update when you arrive at your destination and connect to the local network.

5.  On the “Activate eSIM” screen:
    
    -   Tap **Continue**.
        
6.  When the “Mobile Plan Setup Complete screen” appears:
    
    -   Tap **Done**. (This step may take a moment. Please be patient and do not interrupt the process.)
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/NjrFVA2f9rQJZdrwn3fHoPJEwcaaVbUZCCdPE7F7oZuYmH8NLAuzNWE1lX529iOOeQCDsG5h4TI.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/2XoTSTyy9JNHgkJwsc2DBuC2f3uHo2JKeYH5tR3XeYN9idZUdcpl58cXqyda153BChkd1qCukDc.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/c0V5g5kMyUGDQDxq2fimNoVDJRtBavL453tcGHBpH8g7doSpRxACF8EJ1MdC31c0J7dFdAABzy9.png)
    

### Choose a Label for Your eSIM Plan

7.  On the “Mobile Plan Labels” screen:
    
    -   Tap the preselected label for your eSIM plan.
        
    -   We recommend choosing _Travel_ or entering a custom name in the "Custom Label" field.
        
    -   Tap **Done** to confirm.
        
    -   Tap **Continue**.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/4JbCWTuqM3pu663YeQzgEe6bIsGBFlYezxxEc2upYxvUhhjdfFsaBLlEetpG1lT7M4caHog0fb5.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/Ja8tM9mPJOxn8xK1s0f6J5SmgHKW2PWHdSgyUUT0FvPTs85GB8IYyGLTVlzhVQG7nI1PzjvDxSM.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/UCeeGdOTqJoz6nLSZcOZcYXJGZaeB0JQnXbwpPhgNm7lonPTlqHSqnPmIKs1gzMd0Xvyc83Q2cg.png)
    

> **Warning:** **You** **don’t see the label screen?**
>
> You can set or change your eSIM label anytime in your iPhone settings after the installation.

> **Info:** **Why labeling eSIM helps**
>
> A recognizable label makes managing multiple plans in your phone settings easier. You can add the same label in the WonderConnect app.

### Set Your Default Lines

> **Success:** If you don’t see the **Default Line** and **iMessage & FaceTime** screens, it means your usual primary number is still selected for calls and iMessage. That’s the correct setup.

8.  On the “Default Line” screen:
    
    -   Select your Primary/Personal number for calls and messages.
        
    -   Tap **Continue.**
        
9.  On the "iMessage & FaceTime" screen:
    
    -   Select your Primary/Personal number again.
        
    -   Tap **Continue**.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/Eg955R1yhxBHg2RrD6BdcqWfKKUmyoQQwOgbIJFb6JlkrY7mDtG4wFq5nGbGkJIJYT6cgC1ehZb.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/PBB9d3zEglvxh3utENiSwFbU1pBzNFvHRkTThhqyLpGJpRZMIAqDZks1KzZVHjK6Ge7oOwtt5C6.png)
    

> **Success:** **If you land in the settings and haven’t seen the line selection screens**
>
> Please check the following:
>
> 1\. In the **SIMs section**, you should see a new eSIM labeled by your device (e.g., Mobile Data, Travel, Secondary, or something similar).
>
> 2\. Make sure the **new eSIM line is turned on**. You should see a double signal icon at the top of your screen.
>
> • If that’s the case, return to the WonderConnect app and tap Yes on the guide screen.
> • You’ll then see the status check screen. When you see “Installed,” tap Close.
>
> 🎉 **You’re all set!**
> Return to the app when you reach your destination, and we’ll help you activate your mobile data plan.

### Set Mobile Data Preferences

10.  Since you're installing the eSIM before your trip:
     
     -   **Select your Primary/Personal number for Mobile Data**.
         
     -   Toggle off **Allow Mobile Data Switching**.
         
     -   Tap **Continue**.
         
     
     ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/02VhDz7JkRvrAnxULxXLYYxSH2whCLKHQe1UqmkIxkj4RKHKy08aTJ1r4Hr887qAUMILXuLj3Ra.png)
     

### Installation Confirmation

12.  Go back to the WonderConnect mobile app.
     
     -   Tap **Yes** on the guide screen.
         
     -   You'll see a status screen - if it shows **eSIM** **installed**, tap **Close**.
         
     -   You’ll also receive an SMS confirming the installation.
         
     
     ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/7vTTTnXRP0awKjo5dfuQWA6lM6fNE9EH0Y0bg8KRg6i9Cabu2Nx9a0GOjHvWepZdvvtqkOa1K9Q.png)
     
     ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/7BCPQMUmjh3PhaK6EXagZpq3nyA9Jnq69Z2HktQMFpvCh7CHLXb2uYhRWK0v820ARXEE30Y8blf.png)
     

🎉 **Congratulations! Your travel eSIM is now installed and ready for activation when you reach your destination.**

* * *

## Installation Without the WonderConnect Mobile App or for Older iOS Versions

> **Info:** This method is for iPhones with iOS versions older than 17.5 **or users without the WonderConnect mobile app.**

### Begin the Installation

1.  On your phone:
    
    -   Go to **Settings**.
        
    -   Tap **Mobile Service**. (On some iPhone models, this section may be called **"**Cellular.")
        
    -   Tap **Add eSIM**.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/xKYqWoArizLLYe9uLz97CtuFkgCHrlZIw9rqUIE0yfFqJ8DwA2KXGKS70J9pzfiovPVoYcNgntU.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/0DdyhcrJMKCE8oqr0aowwgVsY1qIqhpS4LJ7R1cE0yfpi2mUtumWDUu3LUXqxNOvDKv9FHW0htz.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/RzdEe8Afpgdlu4JcxE7c9XQ5o1XuoFKwL7u3yjxNVGf7zGSZ4XmP1rUXGObDEvZngIbbRxyUooL.png)
    

### Scan the QR Code or Enter Activation Codes

2.  Tap **Use QR Code**.
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/k4itVZw8out2vRO8jNWUj5MygBVggGY3r45RbLqXdTTM48BKDe0tDOrU5Ydaeqsclvhgz1He6fc.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/JWboLatkWRIdSbD03TjK04o0XQTSBVXUEW1aKXTmwkQXse5kkofoEJb4PY8MWHJk17OiPtT7QgZ.png)
    
    > **Info:** **Where to find the QR code**
    >
    > 💻 **If you have access to your computer:**
    >
    > ✉ Open the **purchase confirmation email** we sent right after you bought the eSIM. Scroll to find the QR code and scan it.
    >
    > or
    >
    > 1\. Log in to the account you used to purchase your travel eSIM.
    > 2\. Go to **Your Account >** click **Complete eSIM setup** on your eSIM view**.**
    > **3\.** Click the **“No app”** tab in the pop-up and **scan the QR code**.
    
3.  **If you don’t have access to the computer**:
    
    -   Select **Enter Details Manually**.
        
    -   Long-press to paste the codes provided in the email and app.
        
    -   Tap **Next**.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/fdpmRt99d6TCO6OBXtjGwSJdp25iXodycS2tZiLYw1jcZgcpPQlh4I6rKeEAVypYPLfkBTCJ4x0.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/jjmxcDl04dcJzMgFlo8zaWuxYf7jA1vXDlUTuWYufo33QLbbOVGHylT3LXkuW2Jczn2acznDgYp.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/uVuqDKF4W5VR5UlHN7eYVtDUmdCivzIPRLTqVh9QCLvpUXs0Ea8Da8lmdNcFveII2c8kIvBRfHG.png)
    
    > **Info:** **Where to find the Activation codes**
    >
    > 📱**Using the WonderConnect mobile app:**
    >
    > 1\. Tap **Details** on the home screen.
    > 2\. Below the QR code, you’ll see two codes you need. Tap **Copy** and paste each one separately into the “Enter Activation Code” screen.
    >
    > **Without the mobile app:**
    >
    > ✉ Open the purchase confirmation email on your phone. Manually enter the **SM-DP+ Address** and **Activation Code** shown in the email.
    

### Complete the Setup Process in the Settings

> **Error:** If your eSIM covers more than one country and you're currently in one of them, installing it now can start your plan's validity - the eSIM may connect to a supported network as soon as it's installed. To avoid losing validity, install shortly before your trip. You can see the countries your plan covers in your eSIM details.

> **Success:** When you see the "Activating eSIM" screen with the message "**You can continue using your iPhone while your eSIM is activating,**" you may not see the double-signal icon right away. This doesn't mean the installation failed! The eSIM status and signal icon will automatically update when you arrive at your destination and connect to the local network.

4.  On the "Activate eSIM" screen:
    
    -   Tap **Continue**.
        
5.  When the **“Mobile Plan Setup Complete”** screen appears:
    
    -   Tap **Done**. (This step may take a moment. Please be patient and do not interrupt the process.)
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/dsaYTmFhcw9nux5EOWRSDG6DLTnOOXunrR0LyVYbpur9xn8QgffQkKbvozawznC6HpycDEEwGWq.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/bg7gnj3qT5dz1opBlYOSoHCTdkRJAqLr4BAwlRNAlCrVXg1pvW79c74D64sf7bRqijy6E5gnEmi.png)
    
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### Choose a Label for Your eSIM Plan

6.  On the “Mobile Plan Labels screen”:
    
    -   Tap the preselected label for your eSIM plan.
        
    -   We recommend choosing _Travel_ or entering a custom name in the "Custom Label" field.
        
    -   Tap **Done** to confirm.
        
    -   Tap **Continue**.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/GFbaSAO739rChzuUZf8jhnERjAcXraKSOC9V7uB2JIX4H6Oxa7KWOcqlOXUnvicAoJyZlIv1cJd.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/eI6WIO6K1goiFxVtgZTNj8zeYc2GDux6vACAB7uSK1rwiblZsrKcm0Hyup2J2nOtq3khDKFoEZz.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/eVxkbRYHAblAF6QT1trV4raVwvGlrm8h9resbFl4OW9KS3x8apF6Ek6r0pgXwmgdsazvbRdcwZj.png)
    

> **Warning:** **You** **don’t see the label screen?**
>
> You can set or change your eSIM label anytime in your iPhone settings after installation

> **Info:** **Why labeling eSIM helps**
>
> A recognizable label makes managing multiple plans in your phone settings easier. You can add the same label in the WonderConnect app.

### Set Your Default Lines

> **Success:** If you don’t see the **Default Line** and **iMessage & FaceTime** screens, it means your usual primary number is still selected for calls and iMessage. That’s the correct setup.

7.  On the “Default Line” screen:
    
    -   Select your Primary/Personal number for calls and messages.
        
    -   Tap **Continue**.
        
8.  On the "iMessage & FaceTime" screen:
    
    -   Select your Primary/Personal number again.
        
    -   Tap **Continue**.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/jUqyleJ2WKRl6Si67KBkEyJqkHLfQ2TailkbI8w0pQMcHPoE0fY6PPGMi36kB8GeBfvyORu1SUq.png)
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/OCKNTR7cx0SZh0ZZna2hrYNgKkw1jdRCvg1D7CAmp7smVjQUyyu0KtDk5KAcoJfDoEO4WLxxlZR.png)
    

> **Success:** **If you land in the settings and haven’t seen the line selection screens**
>
> Please check the following:
>
> 1\. In the **SIMs section**, you should see a new eSIM labeled by your device (e.g., Mobile Data, Travel, Secondary, or something similar).
>
> 2\. Make sure the **new eSIM line is turned on**. You should see a double signal icon at the top of your screen.
>
> • If that’s the case, return to the WonderConnect app and tap I completed the installation on the guide screen.
> • You’ll then see the status check screen. When you see “Installed,” tap Close.
>
> 🎉 **You’re all set!**
> Return to the app when you reach your destination, and we’ll help you activate your mobile data plan.

### Set Mobile Data Preferences

9.  Since you're installing the eSIM before your trip:
    
    -   Select your Primary/Personal number for Mobile Data.
        
    -   Toggle off **Allow Mobile Data Switching**.
        
    -   Tap **Continue**.
        
    
    ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/9zSwN6qvZx37pQC2rRuG4kv8xpLbsxAJiKjmfLYM4kCtMhmNnrNwsoQaLsyry1qroO4umJQLiiK.png)
    

### Installation Confirmation

10.  **You’ll receive an SMS confirming your installation.** If you used the WonderConnect app to get the activation codes, go back to the app:
     
     -   Tap **I completed the installation** on the guide screen.
         
     -   When you see **eSIM Installed** on the status screen, tap **Close**.
         
     
     ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/GepKXijd3NJsbOgPG8LLFvXN5EDjAX1NaqxfRMCxWZro7ssQ1oDxiNao9JiR8QgE5BA90lK9GBH.png)
     
     ![](https://staticfiles.gleap.io/ghelparticle/vRelNjgKxU4FzFoVhhs4p2rCzX1qbv4o1upWTYOTf9GhccDECGvmcG9AjCHLyAdKnfsNJ9y84zu.png)
     

🎉 **Congratulations!** **Your travel eSIM is now installed and ready for activation when you reach your destination.**

* * *

## Next Step: Activate Mobile Data at Your Destination

Your eSIM is installed, but it’s not active yet. Here's what is ahead of you when you reach your destination:

1.  Make sure your travel eSIM is turned ON.
    
2.  Select the eSIM as your mobile data line and turn off Allow data switching feature.
    
3.  Turn on data roaming for your eSIM.  
      
    Need help? Check the [Activate eSIM mobile data on iPhone](https://help.wonderconnect.com/en/articles/14-activate-esim-mobile-data-on-iphone.md) article for step-by-step instructions.