How to Install a New Zealand eSIM on iPhone and Android

Installing a New Zealand eSIM allows you to prepare mobile data before your trip without removing your existing physical SIM. The eSIM profile is added digitally to a compatible phone using a QR code, manual installation details or another supported installation method.

The installation process usually takes only a few minutes when the phone is connected to reliable WiFi. The exact menu names vary between iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and other Android devices, but the basic steps remain similar.

Quick answer: confirm that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked, connect to stable WiFi, open the eSIM installation menu and scan the QR code supplied with your New Zealand plan. Label the new line clearly and do not delete it after installation, even if you plan to activate mobile data later.

What Does Installing an eSIM Mean?

Installing an eSIM adds a digital mobile profile to your phone. It does not always mean that the data package has already started or that the phone is using the eSIM for mobile internet.

Stage	What Happens
Purchase	You choose and order a New Zealand eSIM plan
Installation	The digital eSIM profile is added to the phone
Enablement	The new mobile line is switched on
Mobile data selection	The eSIM is selected as the preferred data line
Network connection	The phone registers on a supported network in New Zealand

This guide focuses on adding the eSIM profile to your device. The activation settings used after arrival are covered separately in the New Zealand eSIM activation guide.

What You Need Before Installation

Prepare everything before opening the installation menu. Interruptions, unstable WiFi or an inaccessible QR code can make the process more difficult.

• An eSIM-compatible phone.
• A carrier-unlocked device.
• A reliable WiFi connection.
• The eSIM QR code or manual installation details.
• Sufficient phone battery.
• Another screen on which to display the QR code.
• The plan instructions supplied after purchase.

Keep the original QR code and installation email available until the trip has ended, but do not attempt to install the same eSIM repeatedly on several devices.

Check Whether Your Phone Supports eSIM

Not every phone supports eSIM, and compatibility may differ between regional versions of the same model.

Dial *#06#. A compatible device may display an EID alongside one or more IMEI numbers. The EID identifies the phone’s embedded SIM capability.

You can also look for an installation option in the settings:

• iPhone: Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
• Samsung Galaxy: Add eSIM inside SIM Manager.
• Google Pixel: Set Up an eSIM or Download a SIM Instead.
• Other Android phones: Add Mobile Plan, Add SIM or Add eSIM.

If no eSIM option or EID appears, check the exact model number and regional version before continuing.

Check Whether the Phone Is Carrier-Unlocked

A carrier-locked phone may reject an eSIM from another provider even when the device supports the technology.

Check the Lock Status on iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Select General.
3. Open About.
4. Find Carrier Lock or Network Provider Lock.

If the status says No SIM Restrictions, the iPhone is normally unlocked.

Check the Lock Status on Android

Android devices do not use one universal lock-status menu. You may need to:

• Contact the original mobile provider.
• Check the phone purchase documentation.
• Review the provider account or application.
• Confirm whether another operator’s SIM can be used.

Resolve any carrier restriction before attempting installation.

When Should You Install the New Zealand eSIM?

Installing the eSIM before departure is usually the most convenient approach. You can use home WiFi, access the QR code on another device and complete the process without airport time pressure.

However, installation and plan validity are not always linked in the same way. Some plans begin only when they first connect to a supported network, while others may use a different start condition.

Before installing, review:

• When the validity period begins.
• Whether installation before travel is permitted.
• Whether the eSIM should remain disabled until arrival.
• Whether the QR code can be used only once.
• Whether the plan is intended for one device only.

How to Install a New Zealand eSIM on iPhone

The wording may vary slightly according to the iOS version and regional language settings.

1. Connect the iPhone to reliable WiFi.
2. Open Settings.
3. Select Mobile Service or Cellular.
4. Tap Add eSIM.
5. Select Use QR Code.
6. Scan the QR code supplied with the New Zealand plan.
7. Confirm that you want to add the mobile plan.
8. Wait for the profile to download.
9. Label the new line clearly.
10. Complete the remaining prompts without deleting your primary SIM.

Useful labels include New Zealand, Travel eSIM, NZ Data or NoveSIM. A clear name helps you identify the correct line after arrival.

How to Install a New Zealand eSIM on Samsung Galaxy

Samsung menu names can vary between One UI versions, but the usual process is:

1. Connect the phone to WiFi.
2. Open Settings.
3. Select Connections.
4. Open SIM Manager.
5. Tap Add eSIM.
6. Select Scan QR Code.
7. Scan the supplied eSIM code.
8. Confirm the download.
9. Wait until the new profile appears in SIM Manager.
10. Rename the eSIM so it is easy to recognise.

Do not turn off or restart the phone during the profile download unless the installation has stopped completely and the device instructs you to restart.

How to Install a New Zealand eSIM on Google Pixel

1. Connect the Pixel to reliable WiFi.
2. Open Settings.
3. Select Network & Internet.
4. Tap SIMs.
5. Select Add SIM.
6. Choose Set Up an eSIM or Download a SIM Instead.
7. Scan the supplied QR code.
8. Confirm the plan download.
9. Wait until the eSIM appears in the SIM list.
10. Give the plan a clear label.

The menu may appear slightly differently on older Android versions, but it should remain inside Network, Internet or SIM settings.

How to Install an eSIM on Other Android Phones

Motorola, Honor, Xiaomi, Oppo and other manufacturers may place the eSIM menu in different locations. A common route is:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Mobile Network, Network & Internet or SIM Cards.
3. Tap Add eSIM, Add SIM or Add Mobile Plan.
4. Select the QR-code installation option.
5. Scan the supplied code.
6. Confirm the profile download.

If the menu is missing, verify the exact device model, regional version and current software before assuming that the QR code is faulty.

How to Display the QR Code

The QR code normally needs to be displayed on a screen separate from the phone being configured.

You can open it on:

• A laptop or desktop computer.
• A tablet.
• Another smartphone.
• A printed page.

Increase the screen brightness and ensure the entire code is visible. Avoid reflections, cropped images or screenshots that reduce image quality.

Can You Install an eSIM from a QR Code on the Same Phone?

Some newer devices may offer a direct import or recognition option when the QR code is saved as an image. This feature is not available on every model or software version.

When the direct option is missing, use another screen or enter the installation information manually.

Do not use third-party QR scanning applications to install the eSIM. Start the process through the phone’s official SIM settings.

How to Install the eSIM Manually

Manual installation may be possible when your order includes an SM-DP+ address and activation code.

Manual Installation on iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Mobile Service or Cellular.
3. Tap Add eSIM.
4. Select Use QR Code.
5. Tap Enter Details Manually.
6. Enter the SM-DP+ address exactly as supplied.
7. Enter the activation code.
8. Complete the installation.

Manual Installation on Android

1. Open the Add eSIM menu.
2. Select the manual entry option.
3. Enter the SM-DP+ address.
4. Enter the activation code.
5. Confirm the profile download.

Do not add extra spaces or modify characters. Copy the details exactly as provided.

What to Do During the Installation Prompts

Your phone may ask how the new line should be used. When you are installing the eSIM before travel, it is acceptable to add the profile without immediately switching all mobile data to it.

During setup:

• Keep your primary SIM installed.
• Give the eSIM a recognisable label.
• Do not select the primary SIM for international roaming.
• Follow the plan instructions regarding early activation.
• Do not enable automatic data switching.

You can select the travel eSIM as the preferred Mobile Data line after arriving in New Zealand.

How to Confirm That Installation Was Successful

After installation, the new profile should appear in your SIM or Mobile Service settings.

Check for:

• A new mobile plan in the SIM list.
• The label you selected.
• An option to enable or disable the line.
• Network and roaming settings for the new profile.
• A separate IMEI or eSIM entry where supported.

The eSIM may display No Service before arrival. This can be normal when the plan is designed to connect only in New Zealand.

Should You Turn the eSIM On Immediately?

Follow the activation rules supplied with the plan. When validity begins only after the first connection to a supported network, the profile may be installed and left disabled until arrival.

If the instructions warn that the plan begins immediately after installation or enablement, avoid switching it on too early.

When uncertain, install the profile but do not select it for Mobile Data until you are ready to use it.

What Settings Will You Need After Arrival?

Installation adds the profile, but several settings are normally required before mobile data works in New Zealand.

Setting	Recommended Value After Arrival
Travel eSIM	Enabled
Preferred Mobile Data SIM	New Zealand eSIM
Data Roaming on travel eSIM	On
Data Roaming on primary SIM	Off
Automatic Data Switching	Off
Network Selection	Automatic
APN	data.esim when required

For detailed arrival instructions, see how to activate a New Zealand eSIM.

Common Installation Problems

The QR Code Will Not Scan

• Increase the brightness of the screen displaying the code.
• Make sure the complete QR code is visible.
• Clean the phone camera lens.
• Move the devices slightly farther apart.
• Avoid reflections or direct glare.
• Try manual installation details when available.

The Phone Says the Code Is Invalid

An invalid-code message may appear when:

• The eSIM has already been installed.
• The QR code was entered incorrectly.
• The code is intended for another order.
• The phone is carrier-locked.
• The device does not support eSIM.
• The code has expired or been cancelled.

Check the phone’s SIM list before scanning again. The profile may already be present.

The Phone Says the Plan Cannot Be Added

Confirm that:

• The device is connected to WiFi.
• The phone supports eSIM.
• The phone is unlocked.
• The device software is current.
• An available eSIM slot remains.
• The code has not already been used.

The Installation Stops During Download

Keep the phone connected to WiFi and wait several minutes. If the process does not continue, return to the SIM settings and check whether the profile was added despite the interrupted screen.

Restart the phone only after confirming that the installation is no longer progressing.

Do Not Delete the eSIM During Troubleshooting

Never delete the eSIM simply because it does not connect immediately. Many QR codes support one installation only. Removing the profile may prevent you from reinstalling it with the same code.

If the profile is visible in the SIM settings, installation was probably completed. Connection problems after arrival are more likely to involve:

• The wrong Mobile Data line.
• Data Roaming being disabled.
• Automatic Data Switching.
• APN configuration.
• Temporary network registration.
• Weak local coverage.

Can You Install the eSIM on More Than One Phone?

Travel eSIMs are generally intended for installation on one compatible device. A QR code that has already added the profile to one phone may not work on another.

Before installing, decide which device you will use throughout the trip. Avoid installing it temporarily on one phone simply to test the code.

Can You Transfer the eSIM to a New Device?

Do not assume that a travel eSIM can be transferred automatically between phones. Transfer options vary according to the plan, provider and device.

Contact support before removing an installed profile or changing devices. Deleting the eSIM first may make recovery impossible.

Can You Keep Your Normal SIM Installed?

Yes. A compatible Dual-SIM phone can keep the primary SIM installed while the New Zealand eSIM provides mobile data.

After arrival, use this configuration:

• Travel eSIM selected for Mobile Data.
• Travel eSIM Data Roaming enabled.
• Primary SIM Data Roaming disabled.
• Automatic Data Switching disabled.

Your primary line may remain available for calls, SMS and verification messages, although your home provider may charge for some roaming activity.

New Zealand eSIM Installation Checklist

• Confirm that the exact phone model supports eSIM.
• Dial *#06# and look for an EID.
• Check that the device is carrier-unlocked.
• Connect to reliable WiFi.
• Charge the phone before installation.
• Display the QR code on another screen.
• Install through the official SIM settings.
• Label the New Zealand eSIM clearly.
• Confirm that the profile appears in the SIM list.
• Review the plan’s activation rules.
• Keep the QR code and instructions available.
• Never delete the profile while troubleshooting.

Related New Zealand Travel Internet Guides

• New Zealand eSIM Plans
• Best eSIM for New Zealand
• Buy an eSIM for New Zealand
• How to Activate a New Zealand eSIM
• New Zealand eSIM for iPhone
• New Zealand eSIM for Android
• How to Get Mobile Internet in New Zealand
• Mobile Internet in New Zealand
• Local SIM vs eSIM in New Zealand
• How Much Data Do You Need for New Zealand?

FAQ

Can I install a New Zealand eSIM before travelling?

Yes. Installing it through reliable WiFi before departure is normally convenient. Review the plan’s activation and validity rules before enabling it.

Do I need WiFi to install the eSIM?

Yes, a reliable internet connection is normally required to download the eSIM profile to the phone.

Can I scan the QR code from the same phone?

Some devices support direct QR import from an image, but many require the code to be displayed on another phone, tablet, computer or printed page.

Why does the installed eSIM show No Service?

This can be normal before arrival if the plan connects only to supported networks in New Zealand. It may also be disabled until you are ready to use it.

Can I reinstall the eSIM after deleting it?

Do not assume that you can. Many QR codes support only one installation, so never delete the profile while troubleshooting.

Can I keep my physical SIM in the phone?

Yes. A compatible Dual-SIM device can keep the primary SIM installed while the New Zealand eSIM is used for mobile data.

What should I do if the QR code does not work?

Check WiFi, device compatibility, carrier lock and whether the profile is already installed. Use manual installation details when supplied.

What APN will I need after arrival?

Use data.esim when manual APN configuration is required.

Final Recommendation

Install your New Zealand eSIM before departure while connected to stable WiFi. Confirm compatibility and carrier-unlock status first, then scan the supplied QR code through the phone’s official eSIM menu.

Label the new plan clearly and confirm that it appears in the SIM settings. Follow the plan’s activation rules and wait until the appropriate time before selecting it for mobile data.

Keep the QR code and installation instructions available throughout the trip, and never delete the eSIM during troubleshooting. After arrival, enable the travel line, select it for Mobile Data and apply the correct roaming settings to begin using internet access in supported coverage areas.

Browse New Zealand eSIM plans here.