How do I set up a prepaid eSIM for data on an iPhone?
Answer
A prepaid eSIM often fails on iPhone when the phone is still carrier-locked, the eSIM line is not selected for Cellular Data, or Data Roaming is off for that plan. Check Carrier Lock and the Cellular Data settings for the new eSIM before contacting the eSIM seller.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Deleting an eSIM can make reinstall harder; only remove it when the provider’s official instructions say to.
Follow these steps
Check whether the iPhone is carrier-locked
Open Settings > General > About and look for Carrier Lock (or Network Provider Lock). If it says the phone is locked to a carrier, contact that carrier for an unlock before the prepaid eSIM can work.
You should see: You know whether the phone is unlocked or still locked to a carrier.
Confirm the eSIM appears under Cellular
Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data). Confirm the prepaid eSIM line is listed and turned on. If it never appeared after scanning the QR code, retry install only from the official eSIM provider app or email instructions.
You should see: The eSIM line shows as on, or you have a clear install error from the provider.
Select the eSIM for cellular data
In Cellular settings, open Cellular Data and choose the prepaid eSIM line for data. Keep your primary line for calls/texts if you want, but data must use the eSIM plan you purchased.
You should see: Cellular Data is set to the prepaid eSIM line.
Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM
Tap the eSIM line under Cellular, then turn Data Roaming on. Many travel and prepaid data eSIMs require roaming to be enabled even when you are already abroad.
You should see: Data Roaming is on for that eSIM and the status bar shows a data connection or a clearer carrier error.
Restart and retest with Wi-Fi off
Restart the iPhone, turn Wi-Fi off briefly, and open a webpage or speed test using cellular data only.
You should see: Pages load on cellular, or you still see a specific carrier/eSIM error you can report to the seller.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Carrier Lock status in Settings > General > About, whether the eSIM appears under Cellular, and any message like "not supported with this device"
Before you change anything: Confirm the eSIM is meant for iPhone and your country or travel region. Note which physical SIM or eSIM was working before. Do not delete the eSIM unless the seller’s official instructions say to reinstall it. Never share Apple ID passwords or one-time codes with unexpected callers.