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Installation & Activation

"Unable to activate eSIM" or "Can't add eSIM": how to fix it

Updated

"Unable to activate eSIM" usually means the eSIM download did not finish. The same problem shows up as "Can't add eSIM" on Samsung or "Unable to complete cellular plan change" on iPhone. First check whether the eSIM was installed anyway, then retry on a stable connection.

Why "Unable to activate eSIM" appears

  • The connection dropped or is filtered. Public, hotel, airport, plane and ship Wi-Fi often fail. Company networks and some internet providers block eSIM servers.
  • The phone needs an update or a restart.
  • Something interrupted the download, such as a phone call or Airplane Mode.
  • The phone is locked to your home carrier. See eSIM not supported or carrier locked.

Step 1: Check whether the eSIM is already installed

An error can appear even when the download finished. Look before you try again, because the QR code works only once.

iPhone

  1. Open Settings and tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
  2. Look for a new line in the list of SIMs.
  3. To be sure it is yours, go to Settings > General > About, scroll down and compare the ICCID with the ICCID in your order email.

Android

  • Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM manager.
  • Google Pixel: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.

Menu names vary by brand. If the eSIM is listed, do not scan the code again. It is normal for it to show no signal until you reach your destination: see eSIM stuck on Activating.

Step 2: Retry on a better connection

  1. Switch to a different, reliable Wi-Fi network, such as your home Wi-Fi, or use another phone's hotspot.
  2. Turn Airplane Mode off and end any call in progress.
  3. Restart the phone and install any available software update.
  4. Try the other installation method. If scanning failed, enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code by hand: see install an eSIM without scanning the QR code.

If your network blocks eSIM downloads

Some networks and countries block the servers that deliver eSIMs. You can try connecting through a VPN just for the download. Turn the VPN off right after the eSIM is installed, because a VPN can slow down or block mobile data. If a VPN was already on when the error appeared, try once with it turned off.

Quick answers

Can a VPN help me install my eSIM?

Sometimes. If the network you are on blocks eSIM servers, connecting through a VPN just for the download can help. Turn the VPN off right after the eSIM is installed, because a VPN can slow down or block mobile data.

Should I delete the eSIM and try again?

No. Never delete the eSIM to troubleshoot. A deleted eSIM usually cannot be restored. Turn the line off instead and contact support.

What not to do

  • Do not delete an eSIM that appears in your settings. Turn the line off instead.
  • Do not scan the same code again and again.
  • Do not buy a new eSIM before contacting support: we can check the status of your eSIM first.

Still not working?

Note the exact error message and your phone model. Reply to your order email or write to us through the contact page (support@esimcircle.com). To get a fast answer, include your order number, the eSIM's ICCID, the country and network name your phone shows, and screenshots of the error and of the eSIM's cellular settings. See what to send support for where to find each item.

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