It depends on the plan. Its Activation line reads On first use or On installation. Check it on the plan before you buy.
It depends on the plan. Each plan has an Activation line that reads On first use or On installation. Check it before you buy, because it decides when the days start counting.
01Where to check
- On the eSIM page, select a plan. Its facts include Activation: On first use or On installation.
- On the plan's own page, the facts list has Activation, and Good to know has an Activation policy line.
- The questions at the bottom of a destination's page also say when its plans start.
02What each means
03How long it lasts
The plan shows its number of days as Valid for. Under our Terms of Service, an activated plan cannot be paused, transferred or extended unless the plan says so. If the plan is rechargeable, you can add a new package from your account. See How do I top up a rechargeable eSIM?.
04Check the dates later
Signed-in customers see Expires and Data left for each eSIM under My eSIMs. See How do I check my eSIM data left and expiry?.
Tip: Installing needs an internet connection, so an On first use plan can be installed at home on Wi-Fi and switched on at the destination. Keep in mind that a plan which also covers the country you are in can connect there, and that is its first use.