Help Center
Everything you need to know about eSIMs, installation, and using Ethio SIM services
What devices support eSIM?
To use an eSIM, your device must meet the following conditions:
- The device supports eSIMs
- The device is not carrier or network-locked
- The device is not jailbroken (iOS) or rooted (Android)
How to check if your device supports eSIM?
- Open the phone app on your device (not a messaging app like WhatsApp — this must be the app used to make mobile calls)
- Dial the following number:
*#06# - Check for a 32-digit number labeled EID
- If the EID exists, then your device supports eSIMs!
You can check if your specific device supports eSIMs by taking the following steps: Open up the phone app on your device (not a messaging app like WhatsApp — this must be the app used to make mobile calls) -> Dial the following number: *#06# -> Check for a 32-digit number labeled EID. If the EID exists, congratulations! your device supports eSIMs.
After purchasing your eSIM, you will receive a QR code. Simply go to your device's settings, select 'Add eSIM' or 'Add Cellular Plan', and scan the QR code. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. The process takes just a few minutes.
The eSIM data package expiration date depends on the eSIM validity or data consumption. Your eSIM data package will last for the presented validity period, as long as you do not consume all data before then. The validity period starts when the eSIM activates. Most eSIMs will activate when the installed eSIM connects to the supported network at the destination. Depending on the eSIM, it can also activate at the time of the installation, regardless of your location. You can check this information prior to purchase by going to package details -> Activation Policy.
As early as possible, whenever you have a stable internet connection. Before you install, make sure you’ve read your package’s validity policy - some plans start as soon as you install your eSIM (even if you’re outside the coverage area).
If you’re in the eSIM’s coverage area, you can use it right after your purchase - just follow the instructions to install and get connected. If you’re not in the coverage area yet, you’ll need to wait to use your eSIM. You can still install your eSIM immediately after purchase, in most cases. When you’re ready to use your eSIM, make sure it’s on and selected for data - this way it can connect to a network in the coverage area.
The validity policy states when an eSIM package’s validity period starts — you can find this in the package details before or after you purchase an eSIM. In most instances, the validity period begins when an eSIM connects to a supported network in its coverage area. This means that if you install the eSIM outside of its coverage area, the validity period will begin when you arrive. In some instances, the validity period begins as soon as an eSIM is installed on a device. This means that if you install the eSIM outside of its coverage area, the validity period will begin before you can use the eSIM.
The validity period is the amount of time allotted to your eSIM package. If you’ve purchased an eSIM with 1 GB of data for 7 days, the validity period is 7 days. Note, the amount of data is allotted for the entire validity period — not per day. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out — our support team is available 24/7 and always happy to help.
If you run out of data before your validity period ends, you can easily top up your eSIM through our website or app. Simply purchase an additional data package for the same destination, and it will be added to your existing eSIM.
Still have questions?
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