Setting up your eSIM
When do I activate my eSIM plan?
You will need an internet connection to set up your eSIM, so we recommend installing and activating your eSIM just before your departure.
You can wait until you arrive in the country to activate your eSIM, but please remember that you will need a Wi-Fi connection to perform the installation process. Please note that refunds cannot be processed for plans purchased over 90 days prior.
Your line for calls
All our Voice and Data plans offer unlimited calls; choose your new eSIM as your line for calls before making a call or in your phone settings.
Your default line for mobile data
Your default line for mobile data is either your physical SIM or eSIM, depending on which you prefer for data usage. You should set your eSIM as your default line if you've bought a new data package. If you bought your data plan ahead of your trip, then use data from your physical SIM and switch to your eSIM when you arrive at your destination. Switching between your SIM and eSIM for data can be done in your Settings. Check Section 4 for instructions on how to do so
Your messaging
While connected to a ZIM data plan, you can text your contacts through several messaging apps, such as Whatsapp, iMessage, and Facebook Messenger. Most of our Voice plans text is included, and you can enjoy messaging like a local.
Label your eSIM and SIM
To easily differentiate between your physical SIM and eSIM, label them during the eSIM installation. The names will be helpful when choosing which SIM/eSIM you want to use for data. If you change your mind, rename your SIM/eSIM by going to your Settings.
- Go to your Settings
- Click on Mobile Services
- Click on whichever SIM/eSIM you want to rename
- Tap Mobile Data Plan Label and name it
How do I activate my eSIM on Android?
The next few steps are for you if you have an Android device. eSIM activation is slightly different on an Android device than on an iPhone. We’ll explain how to.
Manual activation on Android
Step 1: After purchasing your eSIM plan, open the confirmation email and copy the Activation code. Step 2: Go to your Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add Mobile Plan > Scan Carrier QR Code > Enter Activation Code. You should be on a page titled Add Using Activation Code; keep this page open. Step 3: > Paste the activation code in the corresponding space. Step 4: Ensure Data Roaming is turned ON for your eSIM plan. Go to your Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > You’ll see a list of SIMs. Your new eSIM must be active (make sure the toggle is green). Once activated, go back and click Mobile Networks and make sure Data Roaming is turned ON.QR Code Activation on Android
If you want to activate your eSIM by scanning a QR code, follow the steps below. Step 1: After purchasing your eSIM plan, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code; download and scan the QR code. Step 2: Set up your plan following the instructions. Step 3: When you arrive at your destination, make sure you have set ZIM as your default data line. To do this, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > turn on your eSIM > choose ZIm as your mobile data. Step 4: We will keep reminding you to ensure Data Roaming is turned ON for your eSIM plan. Go to your Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > You’ll see a list of SIMs. Your new eSIM needs to be active (make sure the toggle is green). Once activated, go back and click Mobile Networks and make sure Data Roaming is turned ON. Wait a couple of minutes, and it’ll be ready to go.How do I Activate my eSIM on my iPhone?
Activating your eSIM on an IOS device will differ slightly from activating it on an Android device. We’ll start with IOS, so iPhone users, pay attention.
Direct Activation on IOS. (Available only for App Users)
Step 1: After purchasing your eSIM plan, log in to the ZIM App, using the same email address you purchased your eSIM plan with. Step 2: Go to Wallet and you will find your new eSIM plan, tap on it to show more details then click on Activate eSIM. Step 3: You will be redirected to Mobile Services inside your iPhone settings, a pop-up will appear click allow. Step 4: Remember to turn ON Data Roaming for ZIM and turn Data Roaming for your primary SIM off. To turn ON Data Roaming for ZIM, go to your Settings > Mobile Service > ZIM > Click the toggle next to Data Roaming so that you can see the green bar. This means it’s ON. Go to Mobile Service > Primary SIM > Click the toggle next to Data Roaming so you do not see the green bar. This means it’s Off.Manual activation on IOS.
Step 1: After purchasing your eSIM plan, open the confirmation email and copy the SM-DP Address and the Activation code. Step 2: Go to your Settings > Mobile Service > Add eSIM. Click on Use QR Code > Enter Details Manually. You should be on a page titled Enter Activation Code; keep this page open. Step 3: Paste the SM-DP + Address and the Activation Code in the corresponding spaces. Step 4: Remember to turn ON Data Roaming for ZIM and turn Data Roaming for your primary SIM off. To turn ON Data Roaming for ZIM, go to your Settings > Mobile Service > ZIM > Click the toggle next to Data Roaming so that you can see the green bar. This means it’s ON. Go to Mobile Service > Primary SIM > Click the toggle next to Data Roaming so you do not see the green bar. This means it’s Off.QR Code Activation on IOS
If you want to activate your eSIM by scanning a QR code, follow the steps below. Step 1: After purchasing your eSIM plan, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code; download and scan the QR code. Step 2: Set up your plan following the instructions. Step 3: When you arrive at your destination, make sure you have set ZIM as your default data line. Do this by going to your Settings > Mobile Service> ZIM. Step 4: Remember to turn ON Data Roaming for ZIM and turn Data Roaming for your primary SIM off. To turn ON Data Roaming for ZIM, go to your Settings > Mobile Service > ZIM > Click the toggle next to Data Roaming so that you can see the green bar. This means it’s ON. Go to Mobile Data > Primary SIM > Click the toggle next to Data Roaming so you do not see the green bar. This means it’s Off.How do I download my eSIM?
Once you've purchased your eSIM, keep an eye on your inbox! We’ll send you an email with a QR Code. Scan it to install your eSIM, or copy and paste the activation details into your mobile settings while having a stable internet connection. Make sure to choose ZIM as your default line, and don't forget to enable data roaming to enjoy your data plan.