Travel guide · Updated June 2026

How to Use an eSIM in Turkey: Step-by-Step Installation (2026)

This guide is about how to install and activate an eSIM in Turkey—not which plan to buy. For choosing a plan, see the best eSIM for Turkey. Here we cover step-by-step setup on iPhone and Android, activation timing, and troubleshooting.

1. Buy and get your QR

Buy a Turkey plan online; the QR code and install link arrive by email instantly.

2. Install before you fly

On home Wi-Fi, scan the QR and add the profile—but leave the line off for now.

3. Switch on after landing

After you land, turn the eSIM line on and enable data roaming for that line only.

4. Set it as data line

Make the eSIM your mobile-data line; keep your home number on the physical SIM for calls/SMS.

Install a Turkey eSIM on iPhone

Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM.
Scan the QR code from your email (or enter details manually).
Label the line "Turkey" to avoid mix-ups.
On arrival: set this as your data line and turn on Data Roaming.

Install on Android (Samsung/Pixel)

Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM.
Scan the QR code; the profile loads in a few seconds.
Select the eSIM for mobile data and enable roaming.
Menu names vary slightly by brand and Android version.

Is my phone compatible?

Your phone must be eSIM-capable and unlocked: iPhone XS and newer, many Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel models, and cellular iPads. Check the full list on our compatible devices page.

Get your plan, then install

Choose a Turkey eSIM plan, get the QR instantly, and follow these steps.

View Turkey eSIM plans

FAQ

Install the QR profile while you still have Wi-Fi at home, but keep the line turned off. After you land in Turkey and clear passport control, switch the eSIM line on and enable data roaming for that line only. Installing early avoids needing internet to set up once you arrive.

Open Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM, scan the QR code from your confirmation email, label the line "Turkey", and set it as your data line on arrival. Turn on Data Roaming for that line so it can connect to Turkish networks.

Go to Settings → Connections/Network → SIM manager → Add eSIM/Add mobile plan, scan the QR code, then choose the eSIM for mobile data and allow roaming. Menu names vary slightly by brand and Android version.

Check three things: the eSIM line is turned on, it is selected as the data line, and Data Roaming is enabled for that line. Then toggle Airplane mode for 10 seconds or restart the phone so it registers on a Turkish network. Confirm your plan validity has started.