How to install and activate your NovaSIM eSIM
You can install the eSIM before you travel, configure it once, and turn it back on when you arrive so the package connects automatically.
Install early
You can install the eSIM from home or from your current country before departure.
Enable the line
After installation, keep the NovaSIM line enabled and easy to identify.
Rename it
Rename the new eSIM to NovaSIM so you do not confuse it with your physical SIM or other eSIMs.
Roaming only on NovaSIM
Turn on data roaming only for the NovaSIM eSIM, not for your primary SIM.
Important before you start
Phone menus can differ slightly by brand and software version, but the logic is the same.
Install on iPhone
Menu names may vary slightly between iOS versions.
Open Settings and choose Mobile Service or Cellular
Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan, then choose to use a QR code if that is what you received from NovaSIM.
Scan the QR code or enter details manually
If scanning is not possible, use the manual activation details from your order email exactly as provided.
Finish the iPhone installation flow
Approve the new line, wait for the eSIM to be added, and do not remove your current physical SIM or existing eSIMs.
Install on Android
Samsung, Pixel and other Android phones use slightly different menu labels.
Open Settings and find SIM Manager or Mobile Network
Look for Add eSIM, Download SIM, or a similar option to add a new mobile plan.
Scan the QR code or use manual setup
Use the NovaSIM QR code first. If needed, enter the activation details manually exactly as shown in your order email.
Complete the installation and keep the line saved
Let the phone finish downloading the eSIM profile and keep it stored on the device for your trip.
Configure the NovaSIM line after installation
These are the settings that matter most once the eSIM is already on the phone.
Enable the new eSIM line
Make sure the newly installed eSIM is turned on. If you are not traveling yet, you can turn it off again after setup.
Rename the line to NovaSIM
Rename the eSIM to NovaSIM so you can instantly recognize it among your physical SIM and any other eSIMs.
Use NovaSIM for mobile data when needed
When you want to use the package, select NovaSIM as the mobile data line while keeping your main SIM for calls and SMS if preferred.
Turn on data roaming only for NovaSIM
Enable roaming on the NovaSIM eSIM only. Leave roaming off on your primary SIM to avoid unwanted charges.
Keep your primary line as primary if you want
You do not need to replace your normal number. In most cases, your physical SIM can stay primary for calls while NovaSIM handles data.
What to do when you arrive at your destination
This is the simplest travel flow and usually avoids last-minute mistakes at the airport.
You can install everything before the trip
Install the eSIM and do the settings in your home country or wherever you are before traveling.
If you are not traveling yet, turn the NovaSIM line off again
After setup, you can disable the NovaSIM line and leave it ready for later without deleting it.
When you land, enable the NovaSIM line again
As soon as you arrive in the destination country, turn the NovaSIM eSIM back on and keep it selected for mobile data.
Wait briefly for network registration
Give the phone a little time to detect the local partner network. If needed, toggle airplane mode once or restart the phone.
The package should activate automatically
Once the line connects in the supported destination, the package should activate automatically and data should start working.
eSIM not activating? Fix it here
The problems that account for nearly every failed activation, and what to do about each.
"Invalid QR code" or the scan does nothing
The QR can only be installed ONCE. If you already scanned it on another phone — or tried twice — it is spent. Check Settings → Mobile Data for an existing NovaSIM plan before scanning again; if it is there, the eSIM is installed and you only need to switch data to it.
Installed, but no internet
Installing is not enabling. Open Settings → Mobile Data, select the NovaSIM line, turn on Data Roaming for THAT line (this is required and safe — it is how a travel eSIM connects to local networks) and set it as your data line.
Nothing happens after landing
An eSIM connects only once you are in the destination country and the phone finds a partner network. Restart the phone after landing; if it still shows no service, select the network manually in Settings → Mobile Data → Network Selection.
"Cellular plan cannot be added"
Almost always a locked phone. A carrier-locked device refuses any second plan. Ask your operator to unlock it, or use another phone — check our device list first.
Install it before you fly
Install while you still have Wi-Fi at home. The profile download needs internet; doing it at the airport on arrival, with no connection, is the most common way people get stuck.
Common questions
Short answers for the most important activation doubts.
Can I buy now and start the plan later?
Yes. The days only start counting when the eSIM first connects to a network at your destination — not when you buy it. Install it calmly at home over Wi-Fi and your plan begins when you land.
Can I install the eSIM before I travel?
Yes. That is recommended. Install it, configure it, and if you are not traveling yet just turn the NovaSIM line off until arrival.
Do I need to remove my physical SIM?
No. In most cases you can keep your physical SIM for calls and messages and use NovaSIM only for mobile data.
Which SIM should have roaming turned on?
Turn on roaming only for the NovaSIM eSIM. Keep roaming off on your main SIM unless you intentionally want to use your home operator abroad.
What if data does not start immediately after landing?
Wait a little, then toggle airplane mode once or restart the phone. If it still does not connect, contact NovaSIM support and keep the eSIM installed.