eSIM help

Install an eSIM on iPhone

Add your Niceway eSIM in Settings while you are on Wi-Fi, keep it switched off, and turn it on when you land. You need the QR code from your order.

Written by the Niceway Help teamUpdated 2 min read
On this page
  1. Before you start
  2. Scan the QR code on another screen
  3. Install with only your iPhone
  4. Set up the line
  5. When you land
  6. If it does not work

Before you start

  • An iPhone XS, XR or later that is not locked to a network. iPhones bought in mainland China usually have no eSIM.
  • A Wi-Fi connection. The iPhone downloads the eSIM profile when you add it.
  • The QR code from your order. It is in the email we send and with the order in your account.

Scan the QR code on another screen

  1. Open the QR code on another screen, such as a laptop or tablet.
  2. On your iPhone, open Settings and tap Mobile Service. On some versions it is called Mobile Data.
  3. Tap Add eSIM, then Use QR Code, and scan the code.
  4. Tap Continue and follow the steps on screen.

Install with only your iPhone

On iOS 17.4 or later you can add the eSIM without a second screen:

  1. Open the email with the QR code, or the order page, on your iPhone.
  2. Touch and hold the QR code, then tap Add eSIM.
  3. Follow the steps on screen.

Set up the line

When the eSIM is added, the iPhone asks how to use each line.

  • Name the new line Niceway, so you can tell the lines apart.
  • Keep your usual line as Primary for calls, texts, iMessage and FaceTime.
  • Choose Niceway for Mobile Data, and turn off Allow Mobile Data Switching so the iPhone does not fall back to your usual line abroad.
  • Until you travel, switch the Niceway line off: Settings, Mobile Service, Niceway, then turn off Turn On This Line.
Adding the eSIM does not start your planThe days count from the first connection in your destination. Install it within 180 days of buying it.

When you land

  1. Turn the Niceway line back on with Turn On This Line.
  2. Turn on Data Roaming for the Niceway line. Travel eSIMs connect through partner networks, so this is needed and does not cost extra.
  3. Wait up to a minute for a network name to appear.
Keep Data Roaming off on your usual lineOtherwise your home network may charge you for data abroad.

If it does not work

What happensWhat to try
The QR code does not scanTurn up the brightness of the other screen and hold the iPhone steady, or use the method for one phone above.
The eSIM cannot be addedCheck the Wi-Fi. Then check the iPhone is not locked: Settings, General, About, Network Provider Lock should say No SIM restrictions.
The code has already been usedA QR code usually works only once. If the eSIM was deleted, contact us with your order number.

If it is added but does not connect, see the fixes in our install guide.