Guide

How to set up an eSIM in India (iPhone & Android)

If you are moving to India (work/study) or just arrived, an eSIM can be a simple way to get mobile data quickly without visiting a store.

It can also be a good short-term option while you compare local contracts, or as a secondary data SIM alongside your main number.

Install the eSIM over Wi-Fi before you travel, then enable mobile data after arrival. Below is a practical setup checklist for iPhone and Android.

Currently there are 16 eSIM plans available for India priced from 1,50 EUR – 117,50 EUR, data: 100 MB – 50 GB (4G/5G network).

Buy eSIM for India

Table of contents

Before you start

  • Make sure your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
  • Have Wi-Fi available for installation.
  • Keep the QR code / activation details ready.
  • You can keep your main SIM active for calls/SMS and use the eSIM for data.
  • Many travel eSIM plans are data-only. If you need calls/SMS, keep your main SIM active (and check plan details).

iPhone: add the eSIM

Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM and scan the QR code. Name the eSIM (e.g. “Travel”).

Set the eSIM as your Mobile Data line while you are in India.

Android: add the eSIM

Open Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add eSIM. The exact path may differ by device (Samsung/Pixel/etc).

Scan the QR code and set the eSIM as the data SIM.

APN and mobile data settings

APN is usually configured automatically. If data does not work, check APN/network selection and try toggling Airplane mode or restarting the phone.

Hotspot / tethering

In many cases you can share data via hotspot. If it does not work, check hotspot settings and any plan limitations.

If the eSIM has no internet: quick checks

  • Is the eSIM selected as the Mobile Data line?
  • Are Mobile Data enabled for the eSIM?
  • Network selection set to Automatic and you have signal?
  • Toggle Airplane mode on/off or restart the phone.
  • If needed, enable Data Roaming for the eSIM line.

Which plan should you choose?

For a 5–7 day trip, a smaller plan is often enough; for 10–14 days, a mid-sized plan is usually more comfortable.

See available options here: eSIM for India.

If you will travel across multiple countries, Asia & Oceania + Middle East eSIM may be a better fit.

When to activate

Install the eSIM right after purchase — don't delay. The profile will wait for activation in your phone settings. Enable data when you land.

Who benefits from eSIM in India

  • digital nomads who need stable internet for work
  • travelers with multi-city itineraries
  • road trippers who rely on navigation constantly

Device compatibility

Most modern smartphones (from 2019) support eSIM. Exceptions: budget models and some regional variants. Check in advance.

Cost planning for India

Family savings: for a family of 3-4, one phone with eSIM + Wi-Fi hotspot is cheaper than a separate package for each device.

Connectivity on the ground: India

Public transport in India often has Wi-Fi, but it can be unreliable. eSIM frees you from dependence on public networks and ensures a stable connection.

Useful links

Official sources on mobile networks and roaming:

Quick recommendation

To stay connected in India, choose eSIM for India in advance.

If you travel across multiple countries in the region, Asia & Oceania + Middle East eSIM can be a good fit.

Recommended plans

eSIM for India Asia & Oceania + Middle East eSIM Global eSIM – 140 countries

Summary

Choose eSIM for India so you can get online quickly after arrival.

FAQ

Can I install an eSIM before I travel?

Yes. Install it over Wi-Fi in advance and enable mobile data after arrival.

Can my main SIM stay active?

Yes. You can keep your main SIM for calls/SMS and use the eSIM for data.

What if there is no internet?

Check that the eSIM is selected for mobile data, toggle Airplane mode, restart the phone, and (if needed) enable data roaming for the eSIM line.

How much does an eSIM cost for India?

Prices: 1,50 EUR - 117,50 EUR. Total data: up to 50 GB. Daily cap: 500 MB - 10 GB/day. Validity: up to 30 days. Operators (for reference): Jio, Airtel, Vodafone Idea.

Which validity periods are most common?

Common options: 1 day, 7 days, 30 days.