Tourist installing a Netherlands travel eSIM on an Android phone before departure

Netherlands eSIM for Android: Installation and Setup Guide

NoveSIM | Last updated on: July 15, 2026 | 12 minute read

A Netherlands travel eSIM lets you use mobile data on a compatible Android phone without replacing your regular SIM card. You can purchase the plan online, install it before departure and enable it after arriving in Amsterdam or another Dutch destination.

The eSIM provides internet for Google Maps, train schedules, public transport apps, digital tickets, WhatsApp, email and travel bookings. Most travel eSIMs are data-only and do not normally include a Dutch telephone number, traditional calls or standard SMS.

Quick answer: connect your Android phone to reliable WiFi, open Settings, find SIM Manager or Network and Internet, select Add eSIM and scan the supplied QR code. After arriving in the Netherlands, enable the eSIM, choose it for Mobile Data and turn on Data Roaming.

Top Netherlands eSIMs

Can You Use a Netherlands eSIM on Android?

You can use a Netherlands eSIM when your exact Android model supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Compatibility varies between manufacturers, regional versions and models from the same product family.

Before purchasing, confirm that:

  • Your exact phone model supports eSIM.
  • The device is not locked to another operator.
  • You have reliable WiFi for installation.
  • The plan includes the Netherlands.
  • The validity covers your entire trip.
  • The phone has recent system software installed.

Do not assume that every version of a compatible phone series supports eSIM. Regional variants can have different hardware and software capabilities.

How to Check Whether Your Android Phone Supports eSIM

The menu location varies by manufacturer, but you can usually check through the mobile network settings.

Samsung Galaxy

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Connections.
  3. Open SIM Manager.
  4. Look for Add eSIM.

Google Pixel

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Network and Internet.
  3. Open SIMs.
  4. Look for Add SIM or Set up an eSIM.

Other Android Phones

Depending on the manufacturer, the option may appear under:

  • Mobile Network.
  • SIM Cards and Mobile Networks.
  • SIM Management.
  • Cellular Network.
  • Network and Internet.
  • Connections.

You can also dial *#06#. An EID shown in the device information usually indicates that the phone includes eSIM functionality.

How to Check Whether the Phone Is Unlocked

An Android phone can support eSIM but still be locked to the operator that originally sold it.

You can check the status by:

  • Contacting your home mobile operator.
  • Reviewing your device account or contract.
  • Testing another operator’s physical SIM when available.
  • Checking the network settings for carrier restrictions.

If the phone is locked, request an unlock from the original operator before purchasing a travel eSIM.

What You Need Before Installation

  • A compatible and unlocked Android phone.
  • A Netherlands or regional Europe eSIM plan.
  • Reliable WiFi.
  • The eSIM QR code or manual activation details.
  • Enough battery power to complete installation.
  • Another screen on which to display the QR code.

Browse Netherlands eSIM plans.

How to Install a Netherlands eSIM on Samsung

  1. Connect the Samsung phone to reliable WiFi.
  2. Open Settings.
  3. Select Connections.
  4. Open SIM Manager.
  5. Tap Add eSIM.
  6. Select Scan QR Code.
  7. Scan the QR code supplied with your order.
  8. Confirm that you want to add the mobile plan.
  9. Wait for the installation to finish.
  10. Give the eSIM a clear name such as Netherlands eSIM or NoveSIM.

Menu names may vary slightly according to the Samsung model and software version.

How to Install a Netherlands eSIM on Google Pixel

  1. Connect the Pixel phone to reliable WiFi.
  2. Open Settings.
  3. Select Network and Internet.
  4. Choose SIMs.
  5. Tap Add SIM.
  6. Select the option to download or set up an eSIM.
  7. Scan the supplied QR code.
  8. Follow the instructions on the screen.
  9. Wait until the profile has been added.
  10. Label the plan clearly.

How to Install the eSIM on Other Android Phones

The exact menu depends on the manufacturer, but the general process is similar:

  1. Connect to WiFi.
  2. Open Settings.
  3. Go to the mobile network or SIM management section.
  4. Select Add eSIM, Download SIM or a similar option.
  5. Choose QR code installation.
  6. Scan the supplied code.
  7. Confirm the mobile plan.
  8. Wait for installation to complete.

Keep the eSIM installed even when it does not connect before your trip. It may not register until you arrive in a covered destination.

How to Scan the QR Code

The QR code should normally be displayed on another device or printed page so that your Android phone can scan it.

You can use:

  • A laptop.
  • A desktop monitor.
  • A tablet.
  • Another smartphone.
  • A printed copy.

Display the complete code at a readable size. Avoid cropped, blurred or compressed screenshots.

How to Install the eSIM Manually

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

  1. Open the option to add or download an eSIM.
  2. Select manual entry instead of QR scanning.
  3. Enter the supplied SM-DP+ address.
  4. Enter the activation code when requested.
  5. Check that there are no extra spaces.
  6. Confirm and complete the installation.

Enter all information exactly as supplied. One incorrect character can prevent the profile from downloading.

Should You Install the eSIM Before Travelling?

Yes. Installation is normally easier before departure because you have dependable WiFi and access to your order confirmation.

After installing the profile:

  • Confirm that it appears in SIM Manager or SIM settings.
  • Give it a recognisable label.
  • Save the instructions offline.
  • Keep the profile installed.
  • Do not delete it during troubleshooting.

Activation conditions vary by plan. Review whether validity starts at installation, first network connection or another defined event.

How to Activate the eSIM in the Netherlands

  1. Turn off Airplane Mode after landing.
  2. Open your SIM or mobile network settings.
  3. Enable the Netherlands eSIM.
  4. Select it as the preferred SIM for Mobile Data.
  5. Turn on Data Roaming for the travel eSIM.
  6. Turn off automatic mobile data switching.
  7. Keep Network Selection on Automatic.
  8. Wait several minutes for network registration.

The names of these settings differ between Android manufacturers, but the required configuration remains broadly the same.

Recommended Android Settings

Setting Recommended Value
Netherlands eSIM Enabled after arrival
Mobile Data Netherlands eSIM
Calls Primary SIM
SMS Primary SIM
Data Roaming on Netherlands eSIM On
Data Roaming on primary SIM Off
Automatic Data Switching Off
Network Selection Automatic
Preferred Network Type 5G Auto or 4G/LTE
APN data.esim if required

How to Use Dual SIM on Android

Dual SIM allows you to use the Netherlands eSIM for mobile internet while keeping your primary SIM active for calls, standard SMS and verification codes.

Function Recommended SIM
Mobile Data Netherlands eSIM
Conventional Calls Primary SIM
Standard SMS Primary SIM
Verification Codes Primary SIM
WhatsApp Existing account using eSIM data

Your home operator may still charge for conventional calls or outgoing SMS while abroad. Check its roaming conditions before using the primary line.

Should Data Roaming Be Enabled?

Yes. Data Roaming usually needs to be enabled on the travel eSIM because it accesses a supported partner network in the Netherlands.

Use this configuration:

  • Data Roaming on Netherlands eSIM: On.
  • Data Roaming on primary SIM: Off.
  • Preferred SIM for Mobile Data: Netherlands eSIM.
  • Automatic Data Switching: Off.

This helps prevent the phone from switching back to expensive data roaming through your regular SIM.

Will WhatsApp Keep Your Existing Number?

Yes. Installing a Netherlands eSIM does not normally change the number registered with WhatsApp.

WhatsApp continues using the existing account while the eSIM provides mobile internet. Do not use the Change Number option unless you intentionally want to transfer your WhatsApp account.

Does the eSIM Include Calls and SMS?

Most Netherlands travel eSIMs are data-only. They do not normally include a Dutch telephone number, standard calls or conventional SMS.

You can continue communicating through:

  • WhatsApp.
  • Viber.
  • Telegram.
  • Signal.
  • Google Meet.
  • Microsoft Teams.
  • Zoom.

How Much Data Do You Need?

Trip Length Suggested Data
3 days 3–5 GB
5 days 5–10 GB
7 days 10–15 GB
10 days 15–20 GB
14 days 20–30 GB

Maps, messages and public transport apps consume relatively little data. Video streaming, social media video, cloud backups and hotspot use consume much more.

Read how much data you need for the Netherlands.

Can You Use Mobile Hotspot?

Hotspot availability depends on the selected plan and device. On many Android phones, you can find it under Connections, Network and Internet or Portable Hotspot.

Before connecting a laptop:

  • Pause operating-system updates.
  • Pause cloud backups.
  • Disable automatic application downloads.
  • Set the laptop connection as metered.
  • Reduce video-call quality.
  • Monitor your data consumption.

Laptops can consume the available data much faster than smartphones.

Netherlands eSIM APN Settings for Android

The APN is often configured automatically. When the phone shows a mobile signal but websites and apps do not load, check the APN.

Field Value
Name NoveSIM
APN data.esim
Username Leave blank
Password Leave blank
Authentication Type None

Save the APN and make sure it is selected for the Netherlands eSIM.

What to Do If the Phone Shows No Service

  1. Confirm that you are in the Netherlands or another covered country.
  2. Check that the travel eSIM is enabled.
  3. Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM.
  4. Keep Network Selection on Automatic.
  5. Turn Airplane Mode on for 30 seconds.
  6. Turn it off and wait several minutes.
  7. Restart the phone.

Do not delete the eSIM. The supplied QR code may be valid for only one installation.

What to Do If There Is Signal but No Internet

  1. Confirm that the travel eSIM is selected for Mobile Data.
  2. Disable automatic data switching.
  3. Enable Data Roaming on the travel eSIM.
  4. Check that the APN is data.esim.
  5. Save and select the APN.
  6. Turn Airplane Mode on for 30 seconds.
  7. Restart the phone.

Also verify that your plan is active and still within its validity period.

What to Do If Mobile Data Is Slow

  • Move outdoors or closer to a window.
  • Switch from unstable 5G to 4G/LTE.
  • Turn Airplane Mode on for 30 seconds.
  • Pause cloud backups and large downloads.
  • Close streaming applications.
  • Restart the phone.
  • Check whether a high-speed fair-use limit has been reached.

NoveSIM unlimited plans provide 1 GB of high-speed data per 24-hour period. After the daily allowance is used, speed may be reduced until the next reset.

Can You Delete and Reinstall the eSIM?

Do not delete the eSIM unless customer support specifically instructs you to do so. Travel eSIM QR codes are often intended for a single installation.

Most connection problems can be solved by correcting the preferred data SIM, Data Roaming, network selection or APN settings.

Netherlands eSIM or Europe eSIM for Android?

Itinerary Recommended Plan
Amsterdam only Netherlands eSIM
Several Dutch cities Netherlands eSIM
Netherlands and Belgium Regional Europe eSIM
Netherlands and Germany Regional Europe eSIM
Several European countries Regional Europe eSIM

Check the full list of supported destinations before purchasing a regional plan.

Related Netherlands eSIM Guides

FAQ

Can I use a Netherlands eSIM on Android?

Yes, when your exact Android model supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.

How do I install the eSIM on Samsung?

Open Settings, Connections and SIM Manager. Select Add eSIM and scan the supplied QR code while connected to WiFi.

How do I install the eSIM on Google Pixel?

Open Settings, Network and Internet and SIMs. Select Add SIM or Set Up an eSIM and scan the QR code.

Should I install the eSIM before travelling?

Yes. Installation is normally easier over reliable WiFi before departure. Keep the profile installed throughout the trip.

When should I enable the eSIM?

Enable it after arriving in the Netherlands unless the plan instructions specify a different activation process.

Do I need Data Roaming enabled?

Yes. Enable Data Roaming on the Netherlands eSIM and keep it disabled on your primary SIM.

Can I keep my regular SIM active?

Yes. Use the travel eSIM for Mobile Data and the primary SIM for calls, SMS and verification codes.

Will WhatsApp keep my number?

Yes. WhatsApp continues using the number registered to your account while the eSIM supplies mobile data.

Does the eSIM include a Dutch number?

Most travel eSIMs are data-only and do not include a Dutch phone number, conventional calls or standard SMS.

Can I use Mobile Hotspot?

Hotspot availability depends on the selected plan and device configuration. Check the product conditions before relying on it.

Why does the phone show No Service?

Confirm that the eSIM is enabled, Data Roaming is on and Network Selection is set to Automatic. Then use Airplane Mode for 30 seconds and restart the phone.

Why is there signal but no internet?

Make sure the Netherlands eSIM is selected for Mobile Data and check that the APN is set to data.esim.

Can I delete and reinstall the eSIM?

Do not delete it during troubleshooting. The QR code may be valid for one installation only.

What APN should I use?

Use data.esim when manual APN configuration is required for a NoveSIM Netherlands plan.

Final Recommendation

A Netherlands eSIM is an easy way to get mobile data on a compatible Android phone. Purchase and install the profile before departure while connected to reliable WiFi.

After arriving, enable the eSIM, select it for Mobile Data, turn on Data Roaming and disable automatic data switching. Keep your primary SIM active for calls and SMS only when you understand its roaming charges.

Choose approximately 5 GB for a short city break, 10–15 GB for one week and 20–30 GB for two weeks. Select a regional Europe eSIM when your trip includes several supported countries.

Do not delete the eSIM during troubleshooting. Check the preferred data SIM, Data Roaming, Automatic Network Selection and the data.esim APN first.

Browse Netherlands eSIM plans for Android here.

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