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What is an eSIM and how does it work?

2 min de lecturaPublicado el 5 oct 2026

An eSIM is a digital SIM. You buy a data plan, install it on your phone with a QR code or an install button, and use mobile data abroad without a plastic SIM.

An eSIM is a SIM that is built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM card, you install a plan digitally. A KryptoMate eSIM is a prepaid mobile data plan for one country, a region or the world, which you can use next to your normal SIM.

01How it works

  1. 1Check your phone. It must support eSIM and be carrier-unlocked. See Is my phone compatible with eSIM?.
  2. 2Choose a plan. Pick the destination, the amount of data and the number of days. See How do I choose and buy an eSIM plan?.
  3. 3Pay. The eSIM is delivered to your order page and by email. Nothing is shipped. Delivery is usually instant, but it might take 0–24 hours in rare cases.
  4. 4Install. Scan the QR code, or tap the install button on your phone. See How do I install my eSIM?.
  5. 5Connect. At your destination, use the eSIM for mobile data. See How do I use my eSIM abroad and keep my normal SIM?.

02What you get

  • A QR code, install buttons for iPhone and Android, and the details for manual entry.
  • A plan with a set amount of data, or unlimited data, for a set number of days.
  • Coverage for the country or countries listed on the plan page.

03Things to know

  • Each plan is marked Data only or Data + calls + text. See Does my eSIM include calls, texts or 5G?.
  • Each plan says when its validity starts: on first use or on installation. See When does my eSIM plan start?.
  • Each plan says whether it is rechargeable. A rechargeable eSIM can be given more data later from your account. See How do I top up a rechargeable eSIM?.
  • The code installs once. After installing, do not remove the eSIM from your phone: a removed eSIM usually cannot be installed again.
  • KryptoMate sells eSIM plans for 200+ countries.

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