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What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your phone. Instead of buying and inserting a plastic SIM, you download a mobile plan in minutes — perfect for travel.

How an eSIM works

Every phone that supports eSIM contains a small chip (the eUICC) that can store mobile network profiles. When you buy a plan, you receive a QR code or a direct install link. Your phone downloads the profile securely from the network operator, and from then on it behaves just like a regular SIM — except you never had to visit a shop or wait for delivery.

Why travellers use eSIMs

  • No roaming surprises. You prepay for a fixed amount of data, so there are no unexpected charges from your home carrier.
  • Ready before you land. Buy and install at home on Wi-Fi, then switch it on when you arrive.
  • Keep your number. Your main SIM stays in your phone for calls and texts while the eSIM handles data.
  • Nothing to lose. There is no tiny card to swap, store or misplace.
  • Easy to top up. Running low? Add more data to the same eSIM in a few taps.

eSIM vs roaming vs local SIM card

Roaming with your home plan is convenient but often expensive. A local SIM card is usually cheaper but means finding a shop, sometimes showing ID, and swapping cards. A travel eSIM combines the convenience of roaming with prepaid, local-style pricing — and you can set it up before your trip.

What you need

  1. A phone that supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
  2. A Wi-Fi connection to install the eSIM.
  3. A data plan for your destination — browse destinations.

How to install a Globalesim eSIM

  1. Choose your destination and data plan, and pay securely.
  2. Open My eSIMs and tap Install: scan the QR code, use direct install on recent iPhones, or enter the details manually.
  3. Keep the eSIM switched off for data until you arrive, then turn on data roaming for the eSIM line.
  4. Connect automatically when you land.

Frequently asked questions

Is an eSIM the same as a physical SIM card?

It does the same job — connecting your phone to a mobile network — but it's built into your phone and downloaded digitally, so there's no plastic card to insert.

Can I use an eSIM and my normal SIM at the same time?

Yes, on phones that support dual SIM. A common setup is to keep your home SIM on for calls and SMS and use the travel eSIM for mobile data.

Do I need to be connected to the internet to install an eSIM?

Yes. Installing the eSIM profile needs an internet connection, so install it on Wi-Fi — ideally before you travel.

Will a travel eSIM give me a local phone number?

Travel data eSIMs provide mobile data. Messaging and calling apps such as WhatsApp keep working with your existing number over data.