How to set up your eSIM

Install at home. Activate on arrival. Connect to Viettel 5G when you land.

Choose your device to get started

What you need to know about eSIM installation

  1. Your handset must be carrier-unlocked and eSIM-ready. If you're unsure, check the eSIM compatible device list.
  2. A working internet connection is required during setup — Wi-Fi is the most reliable choice, but mobile data also works.
  3. Make sure you have your QR code or manual activation details nearby. Kovitel sends these by email right after purchase.
  4. The whole installation typically wraps up in just 5–7 minutes from start to finish.
  5. Each QR code and activation code can only be scanned or entered one time — keep that in mind before you tap.
  6. Do not delete the eSIM from your phone after installing. Removed profiles cannot be reinstalled.

eSIM installation methods

There are two ways to add your eSIM. Pick whichever suits your situation best.

QR

Scan the QR code

  1. Open your email

    Find the message from Kovitel containing the QR code. If it hasn't arrived, get in touch with support.

  2. Scan the code

    Point your phone's camera at the QR image, or go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add Data Plan and scan it from there.

  3. Follow the on-screen flow

    Once the code is detected, the phone walks you through the rest. Check the device-specific guide below if you get stuck.

M

Install manually

  1. Locate your activation details

    The same email holds two important strings: an SM-DP+ address and an activation code. Reach out to support if the email is missing.

  2. Open Settings

    Head to Mobile Data → Add eSIM (or Add Data Plan) → choose to enter the details manually instead of scanning.

  3. Type in the details

    Carefully paste the SM-DP+ server address and the activation code from the email, then confirm to install.

Step-by-step by device

Menu paths differ slightly across brands. Pick your phone and follow the exact taps below.

i

iPhone or iPad

Works on iPhone XR/XS and newer, plus eSIM-capable iPads, running iOS 12.1 or later.

Method 1 — Scan the QR code that we sent to your email

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
  3. Select Add eSIM, then Use QR Code.
  4. Point the camera at the QR image displayed on another screen.
  5. Tap Continue and confirm Add Cellular Plan.
  6. Give the line a label (for example "Travel" or your destination country).
  7. Choose whichever line you want for default voice, iMessage, and mobile data.

Method 2 — Manual entry

  1. Open Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code.
  2. Tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom of the screen.
  3. Paste the SM-DP+ Address from your activation email.
  4. Paste the Activation Code in the field below it.
  5. Tap Next, then confirm to install the profile.

Tip: Before travelling, switch off Data Roaming (Kovitel eSim is Local eSim) for the new eSIM line under Settings → Cellular → your eSIM → Data Roaming.

S

Samsung Galaxy

Works on Galaxy S20 series and later, Z Flip and Z Fold models, plus most Note and A-series phones from 2021 onwards.

Method 1 — Scan the QR code that we sent to your email

  1. Open Settings on your Galaxy device.
  2. Tap Connections → SIM Manager (older models: Mobile Networks).
  3. Select Add eSIM, then Scan QR code from service provider.
  4. Aim the camera at the QR image.
  5. Tap Add when the carrier card appears.
  6. Pick which SIM you want for calls, messages, and mobile data.

Method 2 — Manual entry

  1. Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM.
  2. Tap Scan QR code from service provider, then choose Enter activation code.
  3. Type or paste the SM-DP+ Address from your email.
  4. Type or paste the Activation Code.
  5. Tap Connect and then Add to finish.

Tip: After installation, Turn off Data Roaming (Kovitel eSim is Local eSIm) through Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Data Roaming so the eSIM works abroad.

P

Google Pixel

Works on Pixel 4 and later. Pixel 7 and newer support multiple active eSIMs at once.

Method 1 — Scan the QR code that we sent to your email

  1. Open Settings on your Pixel.
  2. Tap Network & internet → SIMs.
  3. Tap Add eSIM (or + Add SIM on older versions).
  4. Choose Download a new eSIM, then Next.
  5. Scan the QR code shown on another device.
  6. Tap Download, then Settings to enable the new line.

Method 2 — Manual entry

  1. Go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add eSIM.
  2. Pick Download a new eSIM → Next.
  3. When the camera opens, tap Need help? or Enter manually.
  4. Type the activation code in the format LPA:1$SM-DP+_ADDRESS$ACTIVATION_CODE.
  5. Tap Continue, wait for the download, then enable the eSIM.

Tip: Pixel phones let you turn each SIM on or off individually. Find the controls under Settings → Network & internet → SIMs and tap the line you want to manage.

When to install an eSIM

Install ahead of time, activate on arrival. Set up the eSIM profile a day before departure, then switch it on once you land. Your Kovitel plan starts when you first connect in Vietnam, so you get the full duration of the plan.

  • Day −1Install the eSIM at home on stable Wi-Fi.
  • Day 0Land, switch off data roaming, get connected. Kovitel eSim is Local eSim.
  • ThroughoutUse the eSIM as your primary data line for the trip.

Frequently asked questions

The answers travellers ask us most often.

When should I install an eSIM?

It's best to install your eSIM shortly before you travel or just after arriving at your destination, so the validity window doesn't start running too early. Make sure you're on a Wi-Fi connection during setup for a smoother install. Kovitel plans start when you first connect in Vietnam.

What do I need to prepare for installation?

Before you start, double-check the following:

  • Your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM technology. Confirm on the compatibility list.
  • You're connected to a reliable internet source (Wi-Fi is preferred).
  • You have the QR code or manual activation details ready from your Kovitel email.
What if the eSIM won't install even after I follow the steps?

Try these troubleshooting steps:

  • Reboot your phone and attempt the installation again.
  • Update the operating system to the most recent version.
  • Make sure your internet connection is stable and not dropping out.

Still no luck? Get in touch with support for a fresh activation.

Can I have more than one eSIM on the same phone?

Yes — most phones can store up to 20 eSIM profiles, depending on the brand and model. However, only two lines can be active at the same time. The rest stay inactive until you switch them on through your phone's settings.

How long does the installation usually take?

There's no fixed duration, but on a compatible phone the installation itself typically finishes in under a minute. Activation adds another few seconds, provided you're on a stable Wi-Fi network.

Have any questions?

Our team is around 24/7 to help with installation or activation issues.

Chat on WhatsAppEmail support