Short answer
An eSIM is a SIM card built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM, you install a mobile plan by scanning a QR code or entering an activation code. Most iPhones from the XR/XS onwards, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer support eSIM, as long as the phone isn't locked to one network. To check, dial *#06#: if your phone shows an EID number, it supports eSIM.
How an eSIM works
Every phone that connects to a mobile network needs a SIM profile, the information that identifies you to the network. With a physical SIM, that profile lives on a small plastic card. With an eSIM (embedded SIM), it lives on a chip soldered inside the phone, and the network sends the profile to your phone over the internet when you scan a QR code.
Most eSIM phones can store several eSIM profiles and use one or two at a time, alongside a physical SIM. That means you can keep your Nigerian line active for calls and SMS while a travel eSIM handles data abroad.
Advantages for Nigerians travelling abroad
- No SIM queue at the airport and no passport registration at a kiosk when you land.
- Connected as soon as you land: you install the plan before you travel and switch it on when you arrive.
- Keep your Nigerian number: your MTN, Airtel, Glo or 9mobile line stays in the phone for OTPs, calls and WhatsApp verification.
- Pay in Naira: with ENB Technologies you buy the plan in Naira through Flutterwave, without a dollar card.
- No roaming bill shock: you pay once for a fixed amount of data. See eSIM vs roaming vs local SIM.
Does my phone support eSIM?
The quickest test: dial *#06#. If the screen shows an EID (a long number) along with your IMEI, your phone has an eSIM chip.
Then check the settings:
- iPhone: Settings → General → About; look for Digital SIM or EID. Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) should show Add eSIM.
- Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM manager → look for Add eSIM.
- Google Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Download a SIM instead?
As general guidance, these phones support eSIM (models sold in some countries differ):
| Brand | Models that generally support eSIM |
|---|---|
| Apple | iPhone XR, XS and every newer iPhone (including SE 2020 and later) |
| Samsung | Galaxy S20 and newer S series, Z Fold and Z Flip, Note 20, some recent A series |
| Pixel 3 and newer (some Pixel 3 models sold in certain countries excluded) | |
| Others | Many 2020-and-later flagships from Motorola, Oppo, Xiaomi, Huawei, Sony and others |
"My phone has eSIM but it doesn't work": the lock
A phone can have an eSIM chip and still refuse a travel eSIM if it's network-locked (carrier-locked). This is common with some phones bought abroad on contract. On iPhone, go to Settings → General → About and look for Carrier Lock: No SIM restrictions. On Android, a different network's SIM working in the phone is a good sign it's unlocked.
Can my Nigerian line be an eSIM too?
Some Nigerian networks offer eSIM for your local line as well, which frees your phone's physical slot. The process is done with your network (usually at their office, with your ID and NIN linked to the line), not with a travel eSIM provider. Be careful with anyone offering to "convert" your line informally: your phone number protects your bank OTPs, so only deal with your network's official channels.
Things to know before you buy
- An eSIM profile is usually tied to one phone; you generally can't move it to another phone after installing it, so install it on the phone you'll travel with.
- Don't delete the eSIM from your phone until you've finished using the plan; a deleted profile usually can't be reinstalled.
- Most travel eSIMs are data only. For calls, use WhatsApp or other apps over data, and keep your Nigerian line for SMS.
- Install it while you're on good Wi-Fi. Our step-by-step: how to install an eSIM on iPhone and Android.
Need help?
If you're not sure about your phone, WhatsApp us the exact model and we'll tell you. When you're ready, browse eSIM plans for 200+ countries and pay in Naira.
Travelling soon?
Browse eSIM data plans for 200+ countries and pay in Naira. Not sure your phone supports it? Ask us on WhatsApp.
Visit us: Yaba, Lagos · Owerri · +234 902 730 1128
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
Dial *#06#. If your phone shows an EID number, it has an eSIM chip. On iPhone, look for Digital SIM or EID in Settings → General → About; on Samsung, look for Add eSIM under Settings → Connections → SIM manager.
Can I use an eSIM and my Nigerian SIM at the same time?
Yes, on dual-SIM phones. Your Nigerian line stays active for calls, SMS and OTPs while the travel eSIM handles data abroad.
Can I move an eSIM to another phone?
Usually not after it's installed. Install the eSIM on the phone you'll travel with, and don't delete it until you've finished using the plan.
Does a travel eSIM give me a phone number?
Most travel eSIMs are data only. You can still call and message over data with WhatsApp and other apps, and keep your Nigerian number for SMS.
Written by the ENB Technologies repair & IT team, reviewed by our technicians. Published .
ENB TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED (RC 7714368) repairs computers and supports businesses from offices in Yaba, Lagos and Owerri. This guide is general information; for your device, ask us for a diagnosis. How we write our guides.
