SurferSIM

FAQ

To use eSIM from SurferSIM, turn data roaming on!

Find the answer to your question

What is eSIM?

an eSIM profile contains carrier and network subscription information, just like a normal SIM card. However, instead of coming in the form of physical chip, the operator profile information is downloaded directly into the eSIM chip in your phone. This means your phone has to support eSIM if you want to use it.

What is an eSIM QR Code?

A QR code is simply a representation of a download link plus activation code for your eSIM profile. It is used to easily connect to the eSIM server and download the eSIM profile to your phone.
It is easier to scan a QR code than typing a long string of text, but if for some reason you are unable to scan the QR code, you will have the option to activate your eSIM by entering the required information manually. Please note that QR codes can be used only once. Once a QR code is scanned and an eSIM profile is downloaded, it cannot be used to download the same eSIM again, whether it is on the same or another device.

Is my phone eSIM capable?

As the eSIM technology advances, it becomes more prominent and you can find many phone models supporting it. We tried to summarize it and compile a single list that contains most phone models.
The sure way you can verify if your phone is compatible:

  1. iPhone:
    1. Go to Settings -> Cellular (or Mobile Data).
    2. If you see ‘Add Cellular Plan’ or ‘Add Mobile Plan’, the phone supports eSIM
  2. Samsung:
    1. Go to Settings -> Connections -> SIM Card Manager.
    2. If you see ‘Add Mobile Plan’, the phone supports eSIM
  3. Google Pixel:
    1. Go Settings -> Networks & Internet -> SIMs -> ‘+Add more’.
    2. If you are using Pixel 3/3a or a later model, it will be there and that means the phone supports eSIM

list of compatible phones:

  1. iPhones: introduced in Fall 2018 and later (iPhone XS/XR and all newer models)
  2. iPads: 10.2, Air, Mini 2019, Pro 11, Pro 12.9
  3. Google Pixel: 3/3a and all the later models
  4. Samsung: phones like Galaxy S20 and others.
  5. and many more.
Full list supported eSIM devices
IMPORTANT NOTE

Some models have exceptions depending on models and markets. Operator-locked devices: If your device is locked to a specific carrier due to a contract, it needs to be unlocked first to be able to use the eSIMs sold on our platform.

  1. iPhone:
    1. iPhone models produced for the Chinese market have 2 physical SIM card slots and do not support eSIM. If your iPhone can take 2 physical SIM cards you won't be able to use eSIM.
  2. Samsung:
    1. Samsung restricts eSIM capability by software in some markets and some model sub-variants. Always check for individual phones by going to Settings-> Connections -> SIM Card Manager. If you can see the 'Add Mobile Plan' tab in the eSIMs section, you can use eSIM.
  3. Operator locked devices:
    1. If your device is locked to a specific carrier due to a contract, it needs to be unlocked first to be able to use the eSIMs sold on our platform.
Can I use the eSIM on my smartwatch?

Yes, but only if your smartwatch supports mobile connectivity via eSIM and is not otherwise restricted. Please refer to your smartwatch manufacturer guide to confirm the eSIM capability and activation instructions for your smartwatch.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Apple Watch is NOT SUPPORTED. Apple watch requires sharing of the same subscription with your iPhone. Please contact your carrier to check if they can help you with connecting your Apple watch to the mobile network.

Can I buy the eSIM for somebody else?

Yes. You can buy the eSIM and pass the QR code to a friend, colleague, or family member. Anyone with an eSIM capable device can use the QR code to download the eSIM.

Can I use hotspot with my eSIM?

Yes, you can use a hotspot with your eSIM.
In order to make it work please:

  1. Disconnect WiFi
  2. Use data from your eSIM
  3. Restart the phone
  4. Then turn on your hotspot

If it still not working:

  1. make sure the correct APN is in the hotspot section.
Do I get a phone number with calls and SMS?

Please see the product description of the package.
There are 3 options:

  1. Data only packages- No phone number and no option for calls and texts “This is a data-only eSIM. It does not come with a phone number.”
  2. Has a phone number but no calls minutes and SMS- “This package does not include any minutes or SMS allowance.”
  3. Has a phone number with call minutes and SMS- you will see a phone icon and a mention in the description.

Please remember that if your eSIM doesn’t support voice calling, you can still make calls using any popular messaging app such as WhatsApp, Viber, Skype, FB Messenger, etc.
Your primary number will also remain active to make and receive calls.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Even when the eSIM comes with a phone number, using the phone number to register to various Apps and Websites is NOT GUARANTEED.

When does the package validity start?

It varies by operator and by product. Mostly the package gets activated after you scan the QR code and download the eSIM to your phone, but there are exceptions. Please read the product description of the eSIM package you want to buy.

Shall I buy before or after I reach my destination?

It is up to you. We recommend buying and setting up the eSIM shortly before travel so you can start using it as soon as you land. You can keep the eSIM off until you arrive at your destination.

I already have an eSIM in my phone, can I add another one?

Yes, you can. You can store several eSIM profiles in your phone, but you need to choose only one that will be active along with your primary physical SIM. So, the dual SIM functionality means having both:

  1. Your primary physical SIM, and
  2. One of your stored eSIM profiles active at the same time.
Did you know?

Starting with iPhone 13, Apple made it possible to have 2 eSIMs active at the same time, while primary physical SIM card is off. We expect this to become more popular in the future.