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Travel eSIM · Fix

eSIM data not working abroad: checklist

Signal bars but no internet is the most common travel eSIM problem. Nine times out of ten it’s one of the settings below.

Short answer

Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM line, make sure that line is selected for mobile/cellular data, and check the APN your provider gives you. Travel eSIMs are roaming connections, so with roaming off they connect but pass no data.

iPhone

  1. Pick the data line. Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → select the travel eSIM. Apple: “Select which line you want to use.”
  2. Turn on Data Roaming for that line. Settings → Cellular → tap the eSIM line → Cellular Data Options → Data Roaming. Apple defines data roaming as internet access over a network not covered by your carrier.
  3. Check the line is on. The eSIM line must be turned on (Settings → Cellular → the line).
  4. Check the APN if your provider gives one (Cellular Data Network for that line).
  5. Toggle Airplane Mode for 10 seconds to re-register on the network.

Source: Apple Support · Source: Apple Support

Android

  1. Turn on Roaming. Google: roaming lets your phone send data over other carriers’ networks when you leave your carrier’s area. Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → the eSIM → Roaming.
  2. Set the eSIM for mobile data in the SIM settings.
  3. Check the APN. Google: the APN helps your carrier find the right IP address and connect your phone securely. Add the provider’s APN if it’s missing.
  4. Try manual network selection if automatic picks a partner that doesn’t work.
  5. Restart the phone.

Source: Pixel Phone Help

Still no data?

Once data flows, a quick mobile data check confirms the exit country, DNS and certificates.

SentryFi is not affiliated with any eSIM provider and earns nothing from them. No affiliate links. Facts below are quoted from the provider’s own website, linked as the source.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need data roaming on for a travel eSIM?

Usually yes: travel eSIMs connect as roaming lines. Turn it on for the eSIM line only, so your home SIM doesn’t roam.

Will turning on data roaming charge my home SIM?

Not if the travel eSIM is selected for cellular data and roaming is enabled only on that line. Check your home line’s roaming setting.

Related guides

Sources

Last checked: . SentryFi is not affiliated with the venues, brands or providers named on this page.

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