How to Install & Activate a Calico Link eSIM (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’ve never used eSIM before, don’t worry—setup is usually quick. This guide walks you through installing your Calico Link eSIM and turning it on for mobile data on iPhone and Android.

Before you start (2-minute checklist)

Make sure you have:

• An eSIM-compatible device (check your model first).
• A stable internet connection (Wi-Fi is best during installation).
• An unlocked phone (locked devices may reject eSIM profiles).

Installation methods (choose one)

Most eSIMs can be installed in two ways:

1. QR Code (most common)
2. Manual entry (activation code + SM-DP+ address)

iPhone: install the eSIM

Option A: Install by QR code (recommended)

1. Open Settings
2. Tap Cellular / Mobile Data
3. Tap Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan)
4. Choose Use QR Code and scan your QR code
5. Follow the prompts to finish adding the plan

Option B: Install manually (if QR scan fails)

1. Go to Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data → Add eSIM
2. Tap Enter Details Manually
3. Enter the details provided in your order instructions

Android: install the eSIM

Because Android menus vary by brand, here are the most common paths.

Google Pixel

1. Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
2. Tap Add SIM → Set up an eSIM
3. Follow the on-screen steps (scan QR or enter manually if prompted)

Samsung Galaxy

1. Settings → Connections → SIM manager
2. Tap Add eSIM / Add mobile plan
3. Choose Add using QR code and scan it

Activate the eSIM for data (the part people usually miss)

After installation, your eSIM may exist on the phone but not be “active” for data yet. Do this:

1. Turn the eSIM line ON
   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → your eSIM → Turn On This Line
   • Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM manager → toggle eSIM ON
2. Set the eSIM as your Cellular Data line
   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → select your eSIM
   • Android: choose the eSIM under Preferred SIM / Mobile data (wording varies)
3. Enable Data Roaming (only for the travel eSIM line)

   Many travel eSIMs require data roaming to connect abroad:

   • iPhone: Cellular Data Options → Data Roaming ON
   • Samsung/Android: Mobile networks → Data roaming ON (for the eSIM)

   Tip: Keep roaming OFF on your primary SIM if you want to avoid surprise charges.

Best practice for travellers

• Install before you fly, while you have reliable Wi-Fi.
• Turn it on when you land (or when you want it to start using data).
• Label your lines (e.g., “Home SIM” + “Calico Link eSIM”) so you don’t select the wrong one.

Troubleshooting (quick fixes)

If you don’t see signal/data after activation:

1. Toggle Airplane Mode ON/OFF
2. Turn the eSIM line OFF then ON
3. Restart the phone

If your iPhone can’t set up the eSIM at all, Apple recommends checking whether the line appears in Cellular settings and re-toggling it, plus basic resets like airplane mode + restart.

FAQ

Will I keep my phone number?

Yes. Your physical SIM stays the same. The travel eSIM is usually used for data.

Can I use WhatsApp/iMessage?

Usually yes. Apps keep working; just make sure your phone’s Cellular Data is set to the eSIM when you want to use the travel data line.