How to Install Airalo eSIM on iPhone — Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Airalo is a travel eSIM with data in 200+ countries that you install via QR code or manual entry on iPhone. This guide works on iPhone XS and newer running iOS 17 or iOS 18. Install the eSIM at home while you have Wi-Fi — it is harder to install once you are abroad.
What you need
- iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 or SE (2020/2022) — any eSIM-capable model
- Wi-Fi or mobile data on your existing SIM
- QR code or activation details (SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code) from Airalo — emailed and shown in the Airalo app
- An unlocked iPhone (not carrier-locked)
Step-by-step installation
Method 1. Scan QR code (recommended)
- Open the QR code on another device — laptop, tablet — or print it. You cannot scan a QR shown on the same iPhone.
- On the iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular (iOS 18 still calls it Cellular) → Add eSIM.
- Tap Use QR Code.
- Point the camera at the QR. The iPhone detects the Airalo plan automatically.
- Tap Continue → Add eSIM. Activation takes 30-90 seconds.
- Give the new line a label — for example, Airalo or Travel.
- On the Default Line screen leave your primary SIM for calls and iMessage.
- On the Cellular Data screen choose Airalo — otherwise your home SIM will eat roaming data.
Method 2. Manual entry
If the QR will not scan, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → Enter Details Manually. Type the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code from the Airalo app. A confirmation code is usually not required.
After installation
- The Airalo line appears in Settings → Cellular as an active line. The eSIM bars will show in the status bar once you arrive in the destination country.
- Turn on Data Roaming specifically for the Airalo line: Settings → Cellular → Airalo → Data Roaming → ON. This is mandatory or data will not work abroad.
- Disable data on the home SIM so it does not pull roaming traffic from your home carrier: keep Cellular Data set only to Airalo.
- iMessage and FaceTime continue to use your primary number over Wi-Fi or your home eSIM depending on settings.
Common gotchas
- "Cellular plan cannot be added" — the eSIM is already used or the iPhone is carrier-locked. Check the plan status in the Airalo app and look at Settings → General → About → "Carrier Lock" row.
- No service after landing — pick a network manually: Settings → Cellular → Airalo → Network Selection → turn off Automatic and pick a local carrier listed in your plan instructions.
- QR will not scan — use manual entry.
Where to buy a reliable eSIM
Marix sells Airalo eSIMs with instant QR delivery to your email after payment. Pay with a Russian card, SBP or a CIS bank card — no VPN, no foreign payment systems. Activation details arrive within minutes so you can install the eSIM on your iPhone before takeoff.