Frequently asked questions
How buying and installing an eSIM works, plans and payments, and what to do if something isn't working. Buying through a specific creator's store? Their own help centre — linked from their storefront — covers the same ground alongside their own support contact.
Getting started
How buying and activating an eSIM works.
How buying and activating an eSIM works
1. Choose your plan — Pick a data plan for your destination. 2. Checkout securely — Pay by card via Stripe — your payment details stay protected. 3. Get your QR code — Your activation QR code and setup instructions arrive by email instantly. 4. Scan and connect — Scan the QR code in your phone's settings before you travel — no physical SIM needed.
Which devices are compatible?
Most eSIM-capable phones work, including iPhone XS or later and recent Pixel and Galaxy models. Check Settings → About → SIMs (or Cellular) on your device to confirm eSIM support before you buy.
Can I use my phone number for calls and texts?
eSIM data plans provide mobile data only. Keep your physical SIM active for calls and texts, or use a data-based calling app.
Installing your eSIM
Step-by-step for iPhone and Android.
How do I install my eSIM on iPhone?
Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Service) → Add eSIM → Use QR Code if you're scanning from another device, or Enter Details Manually to paste the activation code from your confirmation email or storefront page instead. Keep Wi-Fi on during setup — it can take a minute to finish.
How do I install my eSIM on Android?
Go to Settings → Network & Internet (or Connections) → SIMs → Add eSIM (some phones show this as "Add mobile plan" or "Download a SIM instead?"). Choose Scan a QR Code if you're scanning from another device, or the manual/text entry option to paste the activation code from your confirmation email or storefront page instead. Menu names vary slightly by manufacturer (Samsung, Pixel, etc.) but the flow is the same.
My QR code won't scan — what do I do?
Turn up your screen brightness if you're scanning from another device, and make sure the QR code is fully in frame rather than cropped by a screenshot. If it still won't scan, your confirmation email and storefront page also show the same activation code as copyable text — choose "Enter Details Manually" in your device's eSIM setup and paste it in instead.
I installed my eSIM but have no service — what now?
First, toggle Airplane Mode on and off to force your phone to re-register with the network. Next, confirm the eSIM line (not your physical SIM) is set as your data line: iOS — Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data, Android — Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → tap the eSIM → enable "Use for mobile data." Carrier registration can take a few minutes after activation, especially right after landing — give it 10–15 minutes before trying again.
Plans & payments
Data, top-ups, refunds and billing.
What is the refund policy?
If you change your mind, contact us within 7 days of purchase for a full refund — as long as your eSIM has not yet been activated. Once activated, refunds are processed on a case-by-case basis.
When does my data plan start?
Your plan starts the moment you activate the eSIM on your device, not when you buy it — so you can buy ahead of your trip.
What if I run out of data?
Top up anytime from this store using your eSIM's ICCID — no need to buy a new eSIM.
Troubleshooting
No service, QR problems, usage questions.
How do I check my data usage?
We don't have a live usage dashboard for end-customers yet. We automatically email you a usage alert once you've used about 80% of your data allowance, so you'll know before you run out. If you need an exact reading sooner, contact support with your order confirmation and we'll look it up for you.
Still need help? Email hello@fresim.com.