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How to install an eSIM and switch between lines

Android and iPhone steps, what to do with your home SIM, and how to keep bank OTPs working abroad.

Published 10 Aug 2026 · Updated 12 Sept 2026 · 5 min read

Installing takes five minutes on Wi-Fi. The part people get wrong is what to do with the home SIM: keep it on for OTPs, turn its data roaming off, and set the eSIM as the data line.

Install an eSIM on Android

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi.
  2. Open Settings > Connections (or Network & internet) > SIM manager > Add eSIM.
  3. Scan the QR code from the provider email, or paste the activation code.
  4. Name the line, for example Thailand, and leave it off until you land.
  5. After landing, turn the line on and choose it under Mobile data. Keep calls and SMS on your home SIM.

Install an eSIM on iPhone

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi.
  2. Open Settings > Cellular (Mobile Data) > Add eSIM > Use QR Code.
  3. Scan the code, or tap Enter Details Manually and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code.
  4. Label the line Travel and set Cellular Data to it only after landing.
  5. Under your home SIM, turn Data Roaming off so you do not pay Jio or Airtel roaming rates by mistake.

Keeping bank OTPs working

Indian and Pakistani banks send OTPs by SMS to your home number. Incoming SMS on Jio, Airtel, Vi, Jazz and Zong is free while roaming on most plans, as long as the SIM is on and registered to a network. Keep the home SIM on with data roaming off. If your operator needs international roaming activated to receive SMS, do that before you fly.