An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a SIM card that’s built into your phone as a chip. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you download a mobile plan to the phone, usually by scanning a QR code. Most phones can store several eSIMs and use one or two at the same time.
How a OneSim eSIM works
A travel eSIM is a data plan for your trip. You buy it online, install it before you leave, and when you land your phone connects to a partner network at your destination. You use it for maps, messaging, browsing, video calls, everything that needs mobile data.
- Data only: our eSIMs don’t include a phone number, calls or SMS. Calls work through apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime or Telegram.
- Local or Global: local plans cover one of 160 countries. The Global plan covers about 180 countries on one eSIM.
- Sizes: 1, 3, 5, 10, 20 or 50 GB, each valid for 30 days from first connection.
- No subscription: you pay once. Need more data? Top up the same eSIM.
eSIM vs. a physical SIM
With an eSIM there’s nothing to pick up at the airport and no tiny card to lose. Your regular SIM stays in your phone, so your own number keeps working for calls and texts if you want it to.
What you need
A phone that supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Check yours on our compatible devices page.
