Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up an eSIM for Asia

Baztel SEO
May 29, 2025
4 min read

With the rise of digital technology, traditional SIM cards are gradually being replaced by eSIMs (embedded SIMs). They are especially handy for travelers who want seamless connectivity without swapping physical SIM cards. If you're planning a trip to Asia and wondering how to set up an eSIM for the region, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process.

Understanding eSIMs

Before diving into the setup process, let’s clarify “what is an eSIM?”. Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM is embedded into your device. It allows you to activate a mobile plan digitally, removing the need for a physical card. eSIMs are convenient for frequent travelers, as you can switch between carriers and plans with just a few taps on your device.

Some benefits of eSIMs include:

Eliminating the need to carry multiple physical SIM cards.
Easy switching between carriers.
Reduced risk of losing or damaging your SIM card.
Eco-friendliness due to less plastic waste.

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

Not all devices support eSIM functionality. To set up an eSIM for Asia, ensure that your device is compatible. Most modern smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches have eSIM support.

Here are popular devices with eSIM capability:

Apple: iPhone XS and newer models, iPads with cellular capabilities (3rd generation and newer).
Samsung: Galaxy S20 series and later, Galaxy Z Fold/Flip series.
Google: Pixel 3 and newer.

Check your device’s settings to confirm eSIM availability:

On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
On Android: Navigate to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager or a similar path.

Step 2: Choose an eSIM Provider for Asia

There are numerous eSIM providers offering plans for Asia. Depending on your needs, you can select from regional or country-specific plans. Here are some options:

Global eSIM Providers: BazTel, Ubigi, Holafly, and Nomad.
Country-Specific Providers: Look for local telecom operators in your destination country, such as Singtel in Singapore, SK Telecom in South Korea, or NTT Docomo in Japan.

When selecting a plan, consider:

Coverage: Ensure the plan covers all countries you plan to visit.
Data Needs: Estimate your data usage for navigation, social media, and communication.
Duration: Match the plan’s validity period with your travel dates.
Price: Compare prices to find the most cost-effective option.

Step 3: Purchase the eSIM

Once you’ve chosen a provider, follow these steps to purchase the eSIM:

Visit the provider’s website or app.
Select your desired plan.
Provide your device’s IMEI number if required. To find your IMEI:
- Dial *#06# on your phone.
- Alternatively, find it in Settings > About Phone.
Complete the payment process.

After purchase, you’ll typically receive a QR code or a manual activation code to activate your eSIM.

Step 4: Install the eSIM

Installing an eSIM on your device is straightforward. Follow these steps:

For iPhone:

Open the email or app containing the QR code.
Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

For Android:

Open your device settings.
Navigate to Connections > SIM card manager > Add Mobile Plan.
Select the option to scan a QR code.
Scan the code and follow the prompts.

Manual Installation: If a QR code isn’t provided, you may need to manually enter the activation details:

Go to the eSIM setup section in your device’s settings.
Choose Enter Details Manually or a similar option.
Input the activation details provided by the eSIM provider.

Step 5: Configure Your eSIM Settings

After installation, configure the eSIM settings to ensure it works seamlessly during your trip:

Set Primary and Secondary Lines: If your device supports dual SIM, designate the eSIM as your primary or secondary line depending on usage preferences.
Enable Data Roaming: Go to Settings > Cellular > Data Roaming and toggle it on if your plan supports roaming.
Activate the Plan: Some providers require additional activation steps, such as confirming via email or app.
Test Connectivity: Before traveling, ensure the eSIM connects to the intended network by enabling it and checking signal strength.

Step 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues with your eSIM setup, try these troubleshooting steps:

No Signal: Restart your device or check if data roaming is enabled.
Activation Failed: Verify that you entered the correct details or try re-scanning the QR code.
Slow Data Speeds: Switch to a different network manually through your device’s settings.
Unable to Scan QR Code: Ensure your device camera is functioning properly or request manual activation details from the provider.

For persistent issues, contact the eSIM provider’s support team.

Step 7: Tips for Using eSIM in Asia

Download Offline Maps: Reduce data usage by downloading offline maps for your destination.
Use Messaging Apps: Apps like WhatsApp or WeChat are widely used in Asia and allow communication over data.
Monitor Data Usage: Regularly check your usage to avoid exceeding your plan’s limits.
Switch to Local Networks: In some cases, manually selecting a local network can improve connectivity and speeds.

Step 8: Switching or Deactivating Your eSIM

If you need to switch to a different plan or deactivate the eSIM after your trip:

Navigate to your device’s eSIM management settings.
Select the eSIM profile and choose Remove or Deactivate.
Some providers offer the option to pause the plan for future use.

Conclusion

Setting up an eSIM for Asia is a convenient and efficient way to stay connected while traveling. By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily activate and manage your eSIM, ensuring seamless connectivity across the region. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, serene landscapes, or cultural landmarks, your eSIM ensures you’re always connected to what matters most.