What Is An eSIM Card?

eSIM Explained

At a technical level, an eSIM is a programmable chip built into your device's hardware. It complies with the eUICC (embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card) standard, which allows your device to securely download and manage mobile network profiles over the air — without ever needing to insert or remove a physical SIM.

This remote provisioning capability is what makes eSIM technology so powerful. Users can switch carriers, activate a new plan, or manage multiple profiles on a single device — all digitally. It's not just about convenience; it's also about scalability and security, especially for users managing international travel, work and personal lines, or backup data options.

For businesses and consumers alike, eSIM enables more flexible, efficient, and future-ready connectivity — no more physical logistics, just seamless digital management.

What is the Difference: eSIM VS. Physical SIM

Phone numbers

Network operators

Removal

Activation

Carrier switching

Multiple profiles

Device compatibility

eSIM

Supports multiple phone numbers on a single device.

Not tied to a single carrier; allows switching between providers digitally.

Embedded in the device and cannot be physically removed.

Activated digitally via software — no need for physical handling.

Allows remote network switching without changing SIM cards.

Can store multiple carrier profiles on one device — useful for travelers and business users.

Available on newer flagship devices (iPhones, Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.).

Physical SIM

Typically supports only one number per SIM card.

Locked to a specific carrier unless the device is unlocked.

Can be removed and swapped between devices.

Requires manual insertion and activation through a carrier.

Requires swapping out the SIM card to switch carriers.

Supports only one profile per SIM; dual SIM slots required for multiple numbers.

Compatible with most mobile phones, including older models.

Benefits of Using eSIM for International Travel

Travelling abroad comes with the challenge of staying connected without incurring excessive roaming charges or dealing with the hassle of buying local SIM cards. eSIM technology simplifies international travel by offering affordable, flexible, and seamless connectivity. Here’s why an eSIM is a game-changer for travellers

Cost-effective data plans

eSIMs provide competitive data plans at lower prices compared to traditional roaming. Instead of relying on expensive carrier roaming rates, travellers can purchase affordable local or regional eSIM plans tailored for their destination. This ensures significant savings while maintaining reliable high-speed internet access abroad.

Convenience & seamless activation

Travelers no longer need to deal with physical SIM cards when going abroad. Instead of searching for kiosks or handling SIM tray tools mid-journey, they can install and activate a mobile plan digitally before landing. This enables easy switching between plans through phone settings, offering a more convenient and stress-free way to stay connected while traveling.

Flexibility across multiple countries

Many eSIM providers offer regional or global plans, allowing seamless connectivity across multiple countries without changing SIM cards. This is especially useful for multi-country travellers, digital nomads, or those frequently moving between destinations.

Dual SIM functionality

Many modern devices support dual SIM functionality, allowing users to maintain their primary number for calls and texts while using an eSIM for travel data. This setup ensures you stay contactable on your usual number without interrupting your home network services, all while enjoying data access abroad.

Enhanced security

Unlike physical SIM cards, an eSIM cannot be lost, stolen, or removed from your device. This reduces the risk of SIM card theft or unauthorized use, ensuring a safer and more secure mobile experience while travelling.

Environmentally friendly

Unlike traditional SIM cards, which are made of plastic and often come with excess packaging, eSIMs are entirely digital. This means there's no need for physical manufacturing, shipping, or disposal of SIM cards and their accompanying materials. By eliminating plastic waste and reducing the carbon footprint associated with logistics and retail distribution, eSIMs represent a more sustainable approach to mobile connectivity.

What are the prerequisites for using a Nomad eSIM?

eSIM compatible devices

One of the critical prerequisites for using an eSIM is owning an eSIM compatible device. If you own a 2020 or later flagship phone from any one of the big smartphone manufacturers (Apple, Samsung, Google), chances are your device supports eSIM. Of course, if you are purchasing the latest flagship models, eSIM compatibility is almost guaranteed.

There is a common misperception that eSIMs are only used in iPhones, and that Android devices do not fully support eSIMs. While it is true that all the latest iPhone models are eSIM compatible, many Android devices also support eSIM. In fact, the number of eSIM-compatible Android devices has been steadily increasing over the past few years, and this trend is expected to continue as smartphone manufacturers release new models.

In fact the list of models is too long to include (list of eSIM compatible smartphones), but here are some examples: iPhone XR or later, Samsung Galaxy S20 or later, Samsung Galaxy Z series, and Google Pixel 3 or later all support eSIM.

Check whether your phone is eSIM-compatible

Your Device must be unlocked to use Nomad’s eSIMs

Apart from having an eSIM-compatible device, your phone must also be unlocked to use eSIMs from different providers. A locked phone, tied to a specific carrier, may prevent you from activating an eSIM unless it's issued by that same carrier.

For international travellers, this is especially important. Many rely on travel eSIMs to avoid high roaming fees, but these eSIMs can only be used if your phone is both eSIM-enabled and carrier-unlocked.

The advantage of eSIM technology is that it’s typically operator-agnostic. As long as your phone is unlocked and eSIM-enabled, you can activate eSIM plans from virtually any provider, regardless of your current mobile carrier or location. This gives you the flexibility to stay connected while travelling, without the limitations of physical SIM cards or restrictive carrier agreements.

How to Use An eSIM?

Installing an eSIM is quick and hassle-free. Whether you're using an iPhone, Android device, or setting up via QR code or manual installation, follow these simple steps to get connected in minutes.

Automatic eSIM Installation (Recommended)

01

Select the eSIM you want to install from your Manage page

02

Tap "How to Use"

03

Tap "Install your eSIM"

04

Choose "Direct Install" and follow the on-screen instructions.

Manually Setting up eSIM on iPhone

01

Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM.

02

Choose "Use QR Code" or "Enter Details Manually" (if provided by your carrier).

03

Follow the on-screen instructions to install and activate the eSIM.

04

If prompted, confirm installation and activate the eSIM.
Set the eSIM as your primary or secondary mobile data plan.

Manually Setting up eSIM on Android

01

Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs

02

Tap "Set up an eSIM"

03

Select "Download a SIM Instead" or "Use QR Code".
Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider.

04

If prompted, confirm installation and activate the eSIM.
Set the eSIM as your primary or secondary mobile data plan.

Install Before You Travel!
For a seamless travel experience, install your eSIM before departure and activate it upon arrival. This ensures you’re connected as soon as you land!

Debunking eSIM Myths

eSIMs technology has been around since 2016 but only started gaining significant traction in 2018. Given its increasing adoption, several misconceptions have emerged over time. As strong advocates of eSIM’s flexibility and convenience, we’re here to debunk some of the most common myths surrounding it.

Myth 1 - eSIMs are Expensive

Contrary to popular belief, eSIMs are designed to be cost-effective, not expensive. At Nomad, our goal is to get you connected quickly and affordably, no matter where you are in the world. Since eSIMs are distributed digitally, they eliminate production and logistics costs associated with physical SIM cards. This means lower prices for consumers, as the primary costs come from backend telecom infrastructure rather than distribution.

And it’s not just us — most eSIM providers offer competitive data plans in many countries. For instance, in Mexico, eSIM plans can be as affordable, often matching, or even beating local SIM card prices — without the hassle of physically swapping cards.

Myth 2 - eSIM is mainly for B2B / IoT / connected everything

Some assume that eSIM technology is primarily for business (B2B), IoT devices, and enterprise solutions. While it’s true that eSIMs are widely used in connected vehicles, drones, smart appliances, and smart city infrastructure, their impact in the consumer space is rapidly growing.

eSIM technology is powering billions of IoT devices across industries, from smart cities to connected vehicles. At the same time, consumer adoption has surged, with more smartphones, tablets, and wearables supporting eSIM than ever before. As seen with Myth #1, eSIM’s affordability and convenience continue to make it a go-to choice for everyday users—particularly travelers who rely on seamless global connectivity.

You can also learn more about other myths and disadvantages of eSIMs here.

How to get a Nomad eSIM?

01

Create a Nomad account

Create a Nomad account with your email or social accounts.

02

Select the plan you want

Browse our eSIM plans which covers over 200+ destinations worldwide.

03

Install and Activate

Install your eSIM and get connected the moment you arrive at your destination.

04

Running low on data?

Purchase an add-on and enjoy uninterrupted connectivity.

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Frequently Asked Questions