eSIM Setup & Troubleshooting
Most eSIMs connect automatically once installed. If you're not getting data after activation, work through the steps below for your device. In most cases it's a quick Data Roaming or APN fix.
APN setting
Your APN (Access Point Name) is usually configured automatically. If you have no data after activation, set it manually to internet — that single value works for the vast majority of our networks. Steps to set it are in the device guides below.
iPhone
Not connecting on iPhone?
Step 1 — Enable Mobile Data & Data Roaming
Settings → Mobile Data → turn on Data Roaming. If you have more than one plan, make sure your eSIM Africa Pass plan is selected as the active line.
Step 2 — Set the APN to "internet"
Settings → Mobile Data → Mobile Data Network → in the APN field enter internet.
Step 3 — Reset Network Settings (if the APN won't save)
Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset → Reset Network Settings. Then set the APN again (Step 2).
Step 4 — Manually select the carrier
Settings → Mobile Data → Network Selection → turn off Automatic → choose the recommended local carrier for your destination.
Android
Not connecting on Android?
Step 1 — Enable Mobile Data & Roaming
Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → select your eSIM Africa Pass plan → turn on Roaming.
Step 2 — Set the APN to "internet"
Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Access Point Names → tap + → in the APN field enter internet and save.
Step 3 — Reset Mobile Network Settings (if needed)
Settings → System → Reset options → Reset Mobile Network Settings. Then set the APN again (Step 2).
Step 4 — Manually select the carrier
Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → turn off Automatically select network → choose the recommended local carrier.
Questions?
eSIM FAQ
What is an eSIM?
A data eSIM you activate by scanning a QR code emailed after purchase — no physical SIM card. Hop between countries without swapping SIMs and pay local data rates.
How will my eSIM be delivered?
To the email you used at checkout. Copy your redemption code, go to esimexchange.com to turn it into a QR code, then scan it on your phone to activate.
When should I install it?
Anytime — it only activates once it connects to a supported network. We recommend installing on Wi-Fi in your destination (not at the airport). Validity days start at activation.
How do I know it's active?
Check your network settings — if you see the network name and signal bars, you're connected.
Can I keep my existing SIM?
Yes. You can keep your normal SIM active alongside the eSIM. One eSIM can be bound to one phone, and only one eSIM can be active at a time.
Full APN reference
Most eSIMs set the APN automatically — only set it manually if you have no data after activation. Search your destination, carrier or APN below.
| Plan / Region | Carrier(s) | Network | APN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loading APN data… | |||