Activating an eSIM Without a QR Code

You may be able to activate an eSIM without scanning a QR code, but only through a method supported by both the phone and the mobile provider. Common alternatives include provider-assigned activation, a provider app, transfer from another phone, or manual entry of details supplied by the provider.

There is no safe universal activation code that can be generated independently. Do not buy codes from an unknown seller, copy settings from another customer or use a public QR-code generator.

Choose the method your provider actually supports

Provider-assigned activation

Some providers can assign a mobile plan to the phone's EID. When you open Add eSIM, the plan may appear automatically after the account has been verified. The provider may need the EID or IMEI before it can prepare the activation.

Provider app

A network or travel-connectivity app may install the profile after you sign in and approve the plan. Use only the provider's official app downloaded from the recognised app store. Check the name of the developer before entering account details.

Transfer from another phone

Supported devices can sometimes transfer a line directly between nearby phones. This is not guaranteed for every network, model or software combination. Keep both devices charged, connected and available until the number works on the new phone.

Manual entry

Some providers supply an SM-DP+ address, activation code and, occasionally, a confirmation code. Enter these only in the phone's official eSIM setup. Manual entry is an alternative way to supply provider-issued details; it is not a way to bypass provider activation.

Activate without a QR code on iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Open the mobile-service section and tap Add eSIM.
3. Review the methods offered by the phone, such as transfer from a nearby device or provider activation.
4. If the provider supplied manual details, choose the option to enter them manually.
5. Follow the provider's instructions and wait for the plan to appear.

The menu can change with iOS. Do not assume that a missing transfer option means the phone is faulty; the provider or plan may not support that route.

Activate without a QR code on Android

On a current Pixel, start in Settings > Network and Internet > SIMs > Add SIM. On a current Samsung Galaxy device, start in Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM. Other manufacturers use different labels.

Look for one of the following:

• a plan already assigned by the provider;
• transfer from another device;
• activation through the provider's app;
• manual entry of an activation code.

If the phone shows only a QR scanner, ask the provider which supported alternative is available. A generic internet tutorial cannot create a valid mobile plan.

Before starting

• Confirm eSIM support for the exact device and regional model.
• Confirm eSIM support for the network and tariff.
• Update the operating system.
• Connect to reliable Wi-Fi unless the official instructions state that it is not required.
• Keep the old SIM active and available.
• Protect SMS-based account recovery and save 2FA recovery codes.
• Have the provider account PIN and identity-verification details ready.

How to verify activation

A profile appearing in Settings does not by itself prove that the line is fully working.

1. Check that the eSIM is switched on.
2. Confirm that it is selected for the intended role: calls, messages or data.
3. Turn Wi-Fi off briefly and load a web page through mobile data.
4. Make and receive an ordinary call if voice service is included.
5. Send and receive a normal text if SMS is included.
6. Check access to accounts that use the number for verification.

When to stop and contact the provider

Contact the provider rather than repeatedly changing settings when:

• the plan does not appear after provider assignment;
• the activation details are rejected;
• the provider app shows the wrong number or account;
• the old SIM has stopped working but the new eSIM has not activated;
• the phone requests an activation method the provider has not supplied;
• the account needs a replacement eSIM or provisioning reset.

Have the exact error message, phone number, account PIN, IMEI and EID ready. Do not post these identifiers publicly.