Sim2Go Logo

Activate an eSIM with Manual Activation Code

Step-by-step guide to activate your eSIM manually when QR code scanning is not available

Sim2Go Team
12/7/2025
6 min read

Manual eSIM Activation

Can't scan your QR code? No problem! You can easily activate your Sim2Go eSIM using the manual activation code method. This guide will walk you through the process step by step.

When to Use Manual Activation

QR Code Won't Scan

Camera can't focus or QR code is damaged/unclear

Device Limitations

Older devices that have trouble with QR code scanning

Network Issues

Poor lighting or unstable internet during QR scan

Preference

You prefer to enter activation details manually

Requirements

Stable Internet Connection

Wi-Fi or cellular data connection required for activation

Compatible Device

eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked device

Sim2Go eSIM

Bought Sim2Go eSIM with active eSIM plan

Activation Details

SM-DP+ address and activation code from your account

iPhone Manual Activation

Follow these steps to manually activate your eSIM on iPhone (iOS 12.1 or later)

1

Open Settings

Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions)

2

Add eSIM

Tap 'Add eSIM' or 'Add Cellular Plan' to start the activation process

3

Choose Manual Entry

On the 'Help adding a network' screen, underneath 'Having trouble scanning your QR code', tap 'Enter it manually'

Choose Manual Entry
4

Enter Activation Details

Enter the SM-DP+ address and Activation code exactly as they appear in your Sim2Go account

5

Confirm Installation

Follow the steps on the screen to confirm the new data plan. The system will download and install your eSIM profile

6

Configure Settings

Set up your eSIM label, choose default line for calls/messages, and enable data roaming for international plans

Android Manual Activation

Follow these steps to manually activate your eSIM on Android devices (varies by manufacturer)

1

Open Settings

Go to Settings > Network & Internet > eSIM cards (or Connections > eSIM Manager on Samsung devices)

2

Add eSIM

Tap 'Add eSIM' or 'Add mobile plan' to begin the activation process

3

Choose Manual Entry

Select 'Enter it manually' or 'Use activation code' instead of scanning QR code

4

Enter Activation Code

Input the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your Sim2Go account

5

Download Profile

The system will connect to the server and download your eSIM profile. This may take a few minutes

6

Activate and Configure

Once downloaded, activate your eSIM and configure settings like data roaming and preferred network

Where to Find Your Activation Code

Purchase Confirmation Email

Check your email for the eSIM purchase confirmation

1

Open your email inbox

2

Search for emails from Sim2Go

3

Find the eSIM purchase confirmation email

4

Look for 'Manual Activation Code' or 'SM-DP+ Details'

Troubleshooting Manual Activation

Invalid Activation Code Error

Double-check that you've entered the code exactly as shown, including any hyphens or special characters. Copy and paste if possible.

Additional Tips:

Verify no extra spaces before or after the code
Check for similar-looking characters (0 vs O, 1 vs l)

Network Connection Failed

Ensure you have a stable internet connection and try again. Switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data if needed.

Additional Tips:

Try activating on a different network
Restart your device and try again

SM-DP+ Server Not Found

Verify the SM-DP+ address is correct and your device has internet access. Contact Sim2Go support if the issue persists.

Additional Tips:

Check if the server address includes 'https://' prefix
Try activation at a different time

eSIM Profile Download Stuck

Be patient as downloads can take several minutes. If stuck for more than 10 minutes, restart and try again.

Additional Tips:

Don't interrupt the download process
Ensure strong internet connection throughout

After Successful Activation

Post-Activation Checklist

Verify your eSIM appears in device settings

Enable data roaming for international plans

Set your eSIM as the preferred data line

Test internet connection with a web browser

Configure any additional settings as needed