EUR

How do I install an eSIM?

From scanning the QR code to switching on data roaming - the full installation, with separate notes for iPhone, Samsung and Pixel.

6 min

Install at home, on Wi-Fi

Installation needs an internet connection, and you may not have one when you land. Installing does NOT start your plan - the clock only starts when the eSIM connects to a network at your destination.

The common flow

01Open your QR codeFind it in your eSIM list or in your purchase e-mail. The easiest route is to open it on a second screen - a computer, a tablet, or a printout - since a phone cannot scan a code on its own display.
02Start adding an eSIM in SettingsiPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM. Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM. Pixel: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM.
03Scan the codeThe profile downloads as soon as the camera sees the QR code. If scanning is not possible, enter the activation details from your e-mail manually.
04Name the lineGive it a recognisable label such as "Penyu". Switching between two lines is far easier when you can tell them apart.
05Choose the data lineYour phone asks which line should carry data: choose the Penyu line. Leave your own number selected for calls and SMS.
06Turn on data roamingTurn "Data Roaming" ON for the Penyu line ONLY. The eSIM runs on a foreign carrier's network, so nothing works while it is off. Keep roaming OFF on your own line - that is the one that generates the bill.

Do not delete the profile

Most eSIM profiles can only be installed once. A deleted profile usually cannot be restored, so leave the line in place once it is set up - simply turn it off when you are not using it.

Screen-by-screen, per brand

If you would rather follow the exact screens for your phone, our setup page has brand-specific steps along with a device compatibility check.

Brand-specific setup stepsScreen-by-screen instructions for iPhone, Samsung and Pixel.

What to do when you land

Turn off airplane mode and wait a couple of minutes while the phone searches for a local network.
No signal? Toggle airplane mode on and off once.
Still nothing? Restart the phone - this is the single most effective step.
Double-check that roaming is off on your own line so you do not get a surprise bill.

Preguntas frecuentes

The QR code is on my phone - how do I scan it?

Open it on a computer, tablet or second phone and scan from there. If that is impossible, use "enter details manually" on the add-eSIM screen with the activation details from your e-mail.

When should I install it?

Before you travel, at home, on Wi-Fi. Installing does not start the plan; the clock starts at your first connection abroad.

No internet after installing - what do I check first?

That data roaming is ON for the Penyu line and that "cellular data" is pointed at it. Those two account for the vast majority of cases.