What is an eSIM
eSIM is the digital SIM inside your device that connects to the mobile network. It works in the same way as a traditional physical SIM, but it cannot be removed or replaced. The eSIM is downloaded by connecting the device to the internet first.
An eSIM can be ordered for a new connection, a ported number or by requesting a SIM Swap after a device upgrade, when changing from a physical SIM to an eSIM. There is no need to do a SIM Swap when moving from one eSIM device to another.
You’ll need a few things before you start
1. A compatible device (phone or tablet). Most devices are eSIM compatible, but if you're unsure you can check using Vodafone's device guides.
2. An email address for each connection, as we send the eSIMs directly to your inbox. The email address is collected at the point of order and there are two activation options available
3. Internet access to connect the device and download the eSIM
Option 1: User eSIM
Where individual email addresses are provided and the eSIMs are being sent directly to the users’ inbox.
Option 2: Company admin eSIM
The same email address (like a company admin email), is provided for multiple (or all) connections. The email owner will receive and distribute the eSIMs inside the organisation.
How to activate an eSIM
For each eSIM, an activation email with a simple set of instructions will be sent, together with a password protected activation code (QR code). Based on the type of email provided (User eSIM or company admin eSIM), one of the following options will apply:
Option 1: User eSIM - for connections with individual email addresses
Users will receive and activate their eSIM following the email’s instructions:
- Open email on a second device (computer, tablet or another mobile) Connect device to the internet (WiFi)
- Open QR code file as instructed by email
- Scan QR code with the camera
- Follow on screen instructions to download the eSIM and activate number
Option 2: Company admin eSIM - for connections with the same email address
The company admin will receive all eSIM emails and:
For users with emails
- The company admin will forward the activation email and users will activate their eSIMs
For users without emails
- The company admin with activate the eSIMs on their behalf, performing the activation steps for each connection.
The mobile numbers can be indentified using the last 4 visible digits in the email subject
The instructions in the email to be followed:
- Open email on a second device (computer, tablet or another mobile)
- Connect device to the internet (WiFi)
- Open QR code file as instructed by email
- Scan QR code with the camera
- Follow on screen instructions to download the eSIM and activate number
Important to remember!
- Each eSIM user should know their mobile number to access the QR code.
- For new connections, the numbers are in the customer agreement form.
- The QR codes should be saved, to move the eSIM from a device to another (see FAQs)
