Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can get an eSIM for travel. Here’s how:

• Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your smartphone supports eSIM technology.
• Choose a Carrier: Select a carrier or an eSIM provider that offers travel plans.
• Purchase a Plan: Buy an eSIM travel plan online or from the provider’s app, which often includes data packages tailored for travelers.
• Receive Activation Details: You will receive a QR code or activation details via email or the provider’s app.
• Activate the eSIM: Follow the instructions to scan the QR code or enter the activation details on your device to enable the eSIM.

Most eSIMs cannot be reinstalled, which means that if you remove your eSIM you may encounter an error when trying to download it again.

We recommend temporarily disabling the eSIM when you are not using it to save on data usage. However, once activated the eSIM validity will not stop.

You can get an eSIM online at our website https://menasim.com or through the Menasim app.

On the Memasin website:

1. Sign up for a Menasim account, or log in if you already have one.
2. Search for available eSIMs for your desired country or region.
3. Select your preferred data plan.
4. Choose your payment method, agree with the required items, and click “Complete the order”.
5. You will be directed to a confirmation page and receive a confirmation email.
6. Go to eSIM Detail to view your eSIM. You can also find your eSIM under the My eSIMs tab.
7. Install your new eSIM on your device by following the instructions from your eSIM details page,

On the Menasim app:

1. Select more and go to “Log in or sign up for an account” at the top.
2. In the Store tab, enter your desired country to search for available eSIMs.
3. Select your preferred eSIM.
4. Choose your payment method and tap “Complete Order”.
5. Go to the My eSIMs tab and tap Details.
6. Install your new eSIM on your device by following the instructions from your Install eSIM/Access Data page

How Can I Get An eSIM?

You must check your eSIM’s activation policy.

Before purchase:

Search for the country you wish to buy an eSIM for

Select the eSIM that you like

Check the Additional Information

Tap “Show more” to find the Activation Policy

After purchase:

Go to My eSIMs> Details> Show more> Activation Policy

The activation policy will be either as follows

“The validity period starts when the eSIM connects to any supported network(s)”: This means that you can install the eSIM before traveling without activating it. Once you arrive at the destination you can connect by turning on your eSIM line as long as the setup has been completed as advised on your eSIM installation page.

“The validity period starts at the installation”: This means that your eSIM will activate instantly once installed, and hence, the validity period will start to run although you are not yet at the destination.

 

You can safely remove eSIMs from your device when:

There is no longer an active data package for the eSIM

When you buy an eSIM from MenaSim, it always comes with a data pack that is ready to be activated. You can see this from your account (on the MenaSim App or website) if there is still an active data package for your eSIM (not yet expired). If this is the case, please do not delete the eSIM from the device.

You no longer have a use for it

Some eSIMs from MenaSim can only be used once and can’t be topped up. You can remove these eSIMs after using them.

If you have an eSIM that you no longer plan to use, you can safely remove it as well.

Your new eSIM is for the same country/region

When you buy an eSIM from the store, you will receive a new eSIM each time. The new eSIM will always need to be installed. It’s always best to start to install on a clean slate to avoid confusion on which eSIM is in the device.

To remove your eSIMs from the device, navigate to your device’s Mobile/Cellular Settings, tap on the eSIM you want to delete, and select “Remove Mobile Data Plan”. Depending on the device, it can also be “Remove eSIM”, “Delete Mobile Plan”, or something similar.

If you encounter difficulties connecting your MenaSim eSIM to the internet on a Samsung Galaxy device after installation, please ensure that you have completed the Access Data steps for your eSIM.

You can find them in your MenaSim account:

1. OPEN the MenaSim app.
2. TAP My eSIMs.
3. TAP the eSIM you want to install.
4. TAP View Instructions.
5. LOOK for Access Data instructions.

Before proceeding with the following steps, confirm that the eSIM line is ENABLED and selected for mobile data.

1. GO to Settings.
2. TAP Connections.
3. TAP SIM manager.
4. ENSURE that the eSIM is enabled. If not, toggle it ON.
5. TAP Mobile data and SELECT your eSIM.

Connect to the Supported Network:

1. GO to Settings.
2. TAP Connections.
3. TAP Mobile networks.
4. TAP Network operators.
5. TAP your eSIM.
6. DISABLE Select automatically.
7. SELECT the network specified in your eSIM’s Access Data information.

Update the APN settings (if necessary):

CHECK if you need to modify the APN on your device by opening the MenaSim app and viewing your eSIM instructions.

1. GO to Settings.
2. TAP Connections.
3. TAP Mobile networks.
4. TAP Access Point Names.
5. TAP your eSIM.
6. TAP Add.
7. ENTER the new APN in the APN field.
8. TAP OK.
9. ENTER MenaSim as the APN’s label in the Name field.
10. LEAVE the other fields blank.
11. TAP the three-dot menu in the upper right corner.
12. TAP Save.
13. ENSURE that the added APN is selected.

Enabling Data Roaming (if necessary):

CHECK if you need to enable Data Roaming on your device by opening the MenaSim app and viewing your eSIM instructions.

GO to Settings.

TAP Connections.

TAP Mobile networks.

TOGGLE Data Roaming ON or OFF.

After correctly following the instructions above, your MenaSim eSIM should be successfully connected to the internet.

*How do I access the internet using an MenaSim eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy device?

 

You can download the Menasim App for free on the Apple App Store (iOS) or the Google Play Store (Android).

*How do I download the Menasim App?

Google Pixel | Installation instructions:

Step 1: Install eSIM

1. Go to “Settings,” tap “Network & internet,” then tap “(+)” next to the SIMs section. If it’s not available, tap “SIMs/Mobile network” on your device.
2. Tap “Download a SIM instead?”, then tap “Next”.
3. Tap “Use a different network” to confirm your network.
4. Scan the QR code, then tap “Download/Activate”.
5. Tap “Settings/Done” when you see the Download Finished screen.

Step 2: Access data

1. Go to “SIMs”, then select the recently downloaded eSIM on your device.
2. Enable the “Use SIM” toggle, then tap “Yes”.
3. Enable the “Mobile data” toggle.
4. Enable the “Roaming” toggle, then tap “OK”.
5. Tap the “Automatically select network” toggle, then choose the supported network manually if your eSIM has connected to the wrong network.

*How do I install an eSIM via a QR Code on my Google Pixel device?

iOS 17 | Installation instructions:

Step 1: Install eSIM

1. Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data > Add eSIM or Set up Cellular/Mobile Service > Use QR Code on your device.
2. Scan the QR code, then tap “Continue” twice and wait for a while. Your eSIM will connect to the network, which may take a few minutes. Then tap “Done.”
3. Choose a label for your new eSIM plan.
4. Choose “Primary” for your default line, then tap “Continue”.
5. Choose the “Primary” you want to use with iMessage and FaceTime for your Apple ID, then tap “Continue”.
6. Choose your new eSIM plan for cellular/mobile data, then tap “Continue”.

Step 2: Access data

1. Go to “Cellular/Mobile Data”, then select the recently downloaded eSIM on your device. Enable the “Turn On This Line” toggle, then choose your new eSIM plan for cellular/mobile data.
2. Tap “Network Selection”, disable the “Automatic” toggle, then select the supported network manually if your eSIM has connected to the wrong network.
3. Enable the “Data Roaming” toggle for your new eSIM plan.

*How Do I Install And Set Up An eSIM On My IOS Device?

Google Pixel | Installation instructions:

Step 1: Install eSIM

1. Go to “Settings”, tap “Network & Internet”, then tap “(+)” next to the SIMs section, if it’s not available tap “SIMs/Mobile network” on your device.
2. Tap “Download a SIM instead?”, then tap “Next”.
3. Tap “Use a different network” if you need to confirm your network.
4. Tap “Need help?”, then tap “Enter it manually”.
5. Enter the SM-DP+ Address & Activation Code by copying it, tap “Continue”, then tap “Download/Activate”.
6. Tap “Settings/Done” when you see the Download Finished screen.

Step 2: Access data

1. Go to “SIMs”, then select the recently downloaded eSIM on your device.
2. Enable the “Use SIM” toggle, then tap “Yes”.
3. Enable the “Mobile data” toggle.
4. Enable the “Roaming” toggle, then tap “OK”.
5. Tap the “Automatically select network” toggle then choose the supported network manually if your eSIM has connected to the wrong network.

*How do I install eSIM manually on my Google Pixel device?

iOS 17 | Installation instructions:

Step 1: Install eSIM

1. Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data > Add eSIM or Set up Cellular/Mobile Service > Use QR Code on your device.
2. Tap “Enter Details Manually” and copy the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code. Then tap “Next,” then tap “Continue” twice and wait for a while. Your eSIM will connect to the network, which may take a few minutes. Then tap “Done.”
3. Choose a label for your new eSIM plan.
4. Choose “Primary” for your default line, then tap “Continue”.
5. Choose the “Primary” you want to use with iMessage and FaceTime for your Apple ID, then tap “Continue”.
6. Choose your new eSIM plan for cellular/mobile data, then tap “Continue”.

Step 2: Access data

1. Go to “Cellular/Mobile Data”, then select the recently downloaded eSIM on your device. Enable the “Turn On This Line” toggle, then select your new eSIM plan for cellular/mobile data.
2. Tap “Network Selection”, disable the “Automatic” toggle, then select the supported network manually if your eSIM has connected to the wrong network.
3. Enable the “Data Roaming” toggle for your new eSIM plan.

*How do I install eSIM manually on my iOS device?

Samsung Installation instructions:

Step 1: Install eSIM

1. Go to “Settings”, tap “Connections”, then tap “SIM card manager” on your device.
2. Tap “Add mobile plan”, then tap “Scan carrier QR code”.
3. Tap “Enter activation code”.
4. Enter the SM-DP+ Address & Activation Code by copying it, tap “Connect”, then tap “Confirm”.

Step 2: Access data

1. Go to “SIM card manager”, then turn on your eSIM by enabling the toggle, then tap “OK” on your device.
2. Select your eSIM for mobile data.
3. Go to “Connections”, then tap “Mobile networks”.
4. Enable the “Data roaming” toggle.
5. Tap “Network operators”, tap the “Select automatically” toggle then choose the supported network manually if your eSIM has connected to the wrong network.

*How do I install eSIM manually on my Samsung Galaxy device?

Samsung | Installation instructions:

Step 1: Install eSIM

1. Go to “Settings”, tap “Connections”, then tap “SIM card manager” on your device.
2. Tap “Add mobile plan”, then tap “Scan carrier QR code”.
3. Scan the QR code, then tap “Confirm”.

Step 2: Access data

1. Go to “SIM card manager”, then turn on your eSIM by enabling the toggle, then tap “OK” on your device.
2. Select your eSIM for mobile data.
3. Go to “Connections”, then tap “Mobile networks”.
4. Enable the “Data roaming” toggle.
5. Tap “Network operators”, tap the “Select automatically” toggle then choose the supported network manually if your eSIM has connected to the wrong network.

*How do I install eSIM via a QR Code on my Samsung Galaxy device?

There are two ways to sign up for a Menasim account, the Menasim website and the Menasim app.

On the Menasim website:

1. Go to the www.menasim.com website.
2. Click on Log in/Sign up in the top right corner.
3. To sign up with Facebook or Google or Apple ID, click on Apple, Facebook, or Google icons at the bottom.
4. To sign up by Email, enter your details in the form and click on Sign-up.
5. The activation Code will be sent to your email.
6. Enter the Activation Code and select Continue.

On Menasim app:

1. Open the Menasim app.
2. Tap on more in the bottom menu.
3. Tap on Log in/Sign up.
4. To sign up with Facebook or Google or Apple ID, click on Apple, Facebook, or Google icons at the bottom.
5. To sign up by Email, enter your details in the form and click on Sign-up.
6. The activation Code will be sent to your email.
7. Enter the Activation Code and select Continue.

*How Do I Sign Up For An Menasim Account ?

You can buy an eSIM for someone else and send it.

1. Buy the desired eSIM as usual, once it is under My eSIMs under the Active tap tap Share eSIM
2. Share the Oder No. and Order Password with the person you want to send the eSIM to.
3. The person receiving the eSIM needs to tap More/Link eSIM and enter the Order No and Order password.
4. The eSIM will be transferred and appear under the Active tap on his MenaSim app.
5. Install the eSIM

 

With the growing popularity of eSIM technology, many users are curious about whether their iOS devices support eSIM and if they are carrier unlocked. This guide will help you quickly determine both, ensuring you’re ready to take full advantage of this convenient technology.

What is eSIM?

eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan without needing a physical SIM card. It’s particularly useful for travelers and those who want to switch carriers without the hassle of changing SIM cards.

Steps to Check eSIM Compatibility

1. Check Device Model: eSIM compatibility is available on iPhones starting from the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR onwards. Later models such as the iPhone 11, 12, 13, and newer also support eSIM.
2. iOS Version: Ensure your device is running iOS 12.1 or later. To check this, go to Settings > General > About and look for the “Software Version”.
3. Settings Confirmation:
   • Open Settings.
   • Tap Cellular or Mobile Data.
   • If you see an option for Add Cellular Plan, your device supports eSIM.

For a visual walkthrough, you can watch this YouTube video which provides a detailed guide on checking eSIM compatibility.

How to Check if Your iPhone is Carrier Unlocked

An unlocked iPhone can use eSIM from any carrier that supports it. Here’s how to check if your iPhone is carrier unlocked:

1. Insert a SIM Card: Insert a SIM card from a different carrier than your current one. If your iPhone can make calls and use data with this SIM card, it is unlocked.
2. Carrier Lock Status:
   • Go to Settings > General > About.
   • Scroll down to the “Carrier Lock” section. If it says “No SIM restrictions”, your iPhone is unlocked.

Additional Tips

• Contact Your Carrier: If you’re unsure about your device’s lock status, you can contact your carrier for confirmation.
• Use an App: Some apps can also help determine your phone’s status. For example, the Mena SIM app on iOS can be useful for managing eSIMs.

Download Apps for eSIM Management

• iOS Users: Download the Mena SIM app from the App Store to manage your eSIM.
• Android Users: You can download the Mena SIM app from the Google Play Store.

By following these steps, you can easily check if your iOS device supports eSIM and whether it is carrier unlocked, allowing you to enjoy the flexibility and convenience that eSIM technology offers.

*To Check if Your iOS Device is eSIM Compatible and Carrier Unlocked

You can request to delete your MenaSim account and associated data at any time. Log in to your MenaSim account on our mobile app or website to get started.

On the MenaSim app:

1. TAP More.
2. TAP support / Delete Account.
3. TAP OK.
4. Confirm Account Deletion.
5. Follow instruction.
6. TAP Delete.

*How To Request Account Deletion & Data Erasure?

Yes, eSIM is highly worth it for travel. It offers several advantages for travelers:

• Convenience: Easily switch between different carrier plans without needing a physical SIM card.
• Cost-Effective: Access local data plans and avoid expensive roaming charges.
• Immediate Activation: Activate your eSIM plan instantly upon arrival at your destination.
• Multiple Profiles: Store multiple eSIM profiles on your device, allowing you to switch between them as needed.
• No Physical SIM Card Issues: Avoid the hassle of losing or damaging physical SIM cards.

We likely have the eSIM you are looking for! Menasim has coverage in over 200+ countries, and regions!

Visit our home page or download the Menasim app for free on the Apple app store (iOS) or the Google Play Store (Android) and enter your desired country to see a list of available eSIM plans.

*Is There An eSIM For My Desired Country?

To use an eSIM, your device must be carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible. Please reference the list below to see if your device supports eSIM technology. (Note that country and carrier-specific restrictions may apply.)*

APPLE*

• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 Mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 Mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone SE (2020)
• iPhone SE (2022)
• iPad Air (3rd generation)
• iPad Air (4th generation)
• iPad Air (5th generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)
• iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
• iPad (7th generation)
• iPad (8th generation)
• iPad (9th generation)
• iPad (10th generation)
• iPad Mini (5th generation)
• iPad Mini (6th generation)

*The following Apple devices DO NOT have eSIM capability:
•  iPhone devices from Mainland China.
•  iPhone devices from Hong Kong and Macao (except for the iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone SE 2020, and iPhone XS).

*Only iPad devices with Wi-Fi + Cellular features are supported.

*For iPhone and iPad purchased in TURKEY:
•  If you’re setting up your device for the first time after June 23, 2020, your eSIM will be activated after setup. Contact your carrier if you don’t have eSIM enabled.
•  For devices set up before the above date, follow the steps in this link to activate your eSIM. The procedure may require you to erase your device; please make sure you back up your device before doing so.

SAMSUNG*

• Galaxy A54 5G
• Galaxy S23
• Galaxy S23+
• Galaxy S23 Ultra
• Galaxy S22 5G
• Galaxy S22+ 5G
• Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G
• Galaxy S21 5G*
• Galaxy S21+ 5G*
• Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G*
• Galaxy S20*
• Galaxy S20+*
• Galaxy Z Flip*
• Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
• Galaxy Z Flip 4*
• Galaxy Z Fold
• Galaxy Z Fold 2*
• Galaxy Z Fold 3
• Galaxy Z Fold 4*
• Galaxy Note 20
• Galaxy Note 20 Ultra*

*The following Samsung Galaxy devices DO NOT have eSIM capability:
•  All Galaxy devices from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.
•  All Galaxy FE ‘Fan Edition’ Models.
•  USA models of the Galaxy S20, S21* and Note 20 Ultra.

*Most Samsung devices purchased in South Korea do not support eSIMs except for the Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, Z Flip4, Z Fold4, and A54 5G.

*Samsung Galaxy S21 series devices (with the exception of FE models) from Canada and the USA may have eSIM capability as long as the One UI 4 update is installed. Please get in touch with your carrier or device manufacturer to confirm that your Samsung device is eSIM-capable.

GOOGLE PIXEL

• Pixel Fold
• Pixel 7 Pro
• Pixel 7a
• Pixel 7
• Pixel 6 Pro
• Pixel 6a
• Pixel 6
• Pixel 5a
• Pixel 5
• Pixel 4a
• Pixel 4
• Pixel 4 XL
• Pixel 3 & 3 XL*
• Pixel 3a & 3a XL*

*The following Google Pixel devices DO NOT have eSIM capability:
•  Pixel 3 models originating from Australia, Taiwan, and Japan, and those bought with service from US or Canadian carriers other than Sprint and Google Fi.
•  Pixel 3a models bought in South East Asia and with Verizon service.

HAMMER

• HAMMER Explorer PRO
• HAMMER Blade 3
• HAMMER Blade 5G
• myPhone NOW eSIM

HUAWEI

• Huawei P40 
• Huawei P40 Pro*
• Huawei Mate 40 Pro

*The following HUAWEI devices DO NOT have eSIM capability:

•  Huawei P40 Pro+
•  All Huawei devices purchased in China are not eSIM capable.

MOTOROLA*

• Motorola Edge+
• Motorola Edge 40 Pro
• Motorola Razr 2019
• Motorola Razr 5G

*eSIM support is only available in certain regions. Please contact your carrier or device manufacturer to confirm that your Motorola device is eSIM-capable.

NOKIA*

• Nokia XR21
• Nokia X30

*eSIM support is only available in certain regions. Please contact your carrier or device manufacturer to confirm that your Nokia device is eSIM-capable.

ONEPLUS

• OnePlus 11*

*eSIM support is only available in certain regions. Please contact your carrier or device manufacturer to confirm that your OnePlus device is eSIM-capable.

OPPO

• OPPO Find X3 Pro*
• OPPO Find X5*
• OPPO Find X5 Pro*
• OPPO Reno A*

*eSIM availability may vary depending on country/region and carrier. Please contact your carrier or device manufacturer to confirm that your Oppo device is eSIM-capable.

SHARP*

• AQUOS Sense4 Lite
• AQUOS R7

*eSIM support is only available in Japan and certain regions. Please contact your carrier or device manufacturer to confirm that your Sharp Aquos device is eSIM-capable.

SONY*

• Sony Xperia 1 V
• Sony Xperia 1 IV
• Sony Xperia 5 IV
• Sony Xperia 10 III Lite
• Sony Xperia 10 IV

*eSIM availability may vary depending on country/region and carrier. Please contact your carrier or device manufacturer to confirm that your Sony Xperia device is eSIM-capable.

XIAOMI*

• Xiaomi 13 Pro
• Xiaomi 13 Lite
• Xiaomi 13
• Xiaomi 12T Pro

*eSIM availability may vary depending on country/region and carrier. Please contact your carrier or device manufacturer to confirm that your Xiaomi device is eSIM-capable.

OTHERS

• Honor Magic5 Pro
• Nuu Mobile X5
• Gemini PDA 4G+Wi-Fi
• Fairphone 4

WINDOWS 10*/ WINDOWS 11

ACER

• ACER Swift 3
• ACER Swift 7

ASUS

• ASUS Mini Transformer T103HAF
• ASUS NovaGo TP370QL
• ASUS Vivobook Flip 14 TP401NA

DELL

• Dell Latitude 9510
• Dell Latitude 7410
• Dell Latitude 7310
• Dell Latitude 9410
• Dell Latitude 7210 2-in-1

HP

• HP Elitebook G5
• HP Probook G5
• HP Zbook G5
• HP Spectre Folio 13

LENOVO

• Lenovo Yoga C630
• Lenovo Miix 630
• Lenovo Yoga 520
• Lenovo Yoga 720 convertible laptops

SURFACE*

• Surface Pro 9
• Surface Go 3
• Surface Pro X
• Surface Duo 2
• Surface Duo

*For Windows 10: Your PC needs to have Windows 10 version 1703 or later for you to use an eSIM. The device also needs to be LTE-ready.

*Surface: Any AT&T-locked devices will not support eSIM. If your device was purchased through another carrier, the carrier may have disabled the eSIM capability in Surface Duo. Please contact the carrier to confirm that eSIM is not disabled.

Still not sure if your device is eSIM-capable and unlocked? You can check this in your device settings (as outlined in the articles below) or contact your carrier or device manufacturer.

*What Devices Support eSIM?

An eSIM is an embedded SIM card available on eSIM capable devices. It provides a smarter and more convenient way to stay connected by allowing you to download data packs directly to your phone.

No more scrambling for SIM cards. No more worrying about losing your original SIM card!

It’s important to keep in mind that eSIMs will only work on eSIM compatible and network unlocked devices. 

*What Is An eSIM?

Menasim is the world’s first eSIM store and offers eSIMs for over 200+ countries and regions at the most affordable rates from around the world.

Menasim eSIMs offer you both connectivity and freedom. You’ll no longer have to change SIM cards or carry multiple SIM cards, wherever you may go!

*What Is Menasim ?

We accept the following payment methods:

• Credit and debit cards
• Paypal
• Menasim wallet
• Apple Pay (not available to all countries)
• Google Pay

*What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

Sometimes, an eSIM can get stuck activating on an iOS device. This usually happens when you have installed an eSIM but haven’t yet arrived at your destination country/region.

You can rest easy knowing that the eSIM is fully installed, even if it displays “activating” or “activation failure.”. The activation process will finish when you reach your destination and are within the network coverage area.

*What should I do if the eSIM is stuck activating on my iOS device?

To know when you can install your eSIM, you must be aware of the activation policy.

Most eSIMs will only activate at the destination once they connect to a supported network or any of the supported networks.

On the other hand, some eSIMs will activate instantly as soon as they are installed, regardless of the location.