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Before you start
- Confirm your phone is eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked.
- Keep stable Wi-Fi available during installation.
- Save the Nomad confirmation email, QR code and manual details.
- Do not delete your home SIM; you can keep it for calls/texts.
- Check your plan's destination and activation notes.
Nomad says eSIM installation happens in the phone settings, not inside the app/site alone. Your QR code is found in the confirmation email or Nomad app. Not sure your phone qualifies? See Nomad eSIM compatible devices.
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Install on iPhone
- Open Settings > Mobile Service/Cellular > Add eSIM.
- Choose Use QR Code and scan the Nomad code.
- If scanning fails, choose manual entry and use Nomad's supplied details.
- Give the line a clear name, such as "Nomad Europe".
- Choose Nomad under Mobile Data when you are ready to use it.
- Turn data roaming on for the Nomad line.
- Turn Allow Cellular Data Switching off to protect your home line.
Install on Samsung and other Android phones
On Samsung, open Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM. On Pixel and many other Android phones, use Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add eSIM. Scan the QR code or use the manual details. Then set the Nomad profile as your mobile-data SIM and enable roaming for it.
Menus vary by manufacturer. Follow the labels, not the exact spelling in this guide.
When should Nomad activate?
Nomad says most plans start when the eSIM connects to a supported local network, with data roaming enabled. Install before travel if appropriate, then turn the line on after arrival. If it does not connect in your departure airport, that is usually expected.
Thailand has special products. Nomad says its Unlimited Thailand and Thailand 50GB/10-day plans should be installed after arriving in Thailand; installing early can start validity and cause errors. Those named Thailand plans also cannot use promo codes. See Nomad Thailand eSIM for the full rule.
Test it without wasting time
After landing, open Maps or a simple webpage with Wi-Fi turned off. If data does not work, check that Nomad—not your home SIM—is selected for mobile data, roaming is enabled, and the country is covered. Toggle airplane mode and wait. If that fails, follow Nomad eSIM not working before removing the profile.
FAQ
Can I install Nomad before travel?
Usually yes, with Wi-Fi, then activate it at the destination. Follow plan-specific instructions. Special Thailand products should be installed after arrival.
Does adding Nomad remove my normal SIM?
No. Nomad says a separate eSIM profile does not alter existing SIMs. You choose which line supplies data.
What if the QR code will not scan?
Use Add eSIM in phone settings and choose manual entry with Nomad's supplied information. Keep a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Bottom line
Install calmly on Wi-Fi, label the eSIM, choose it for mobile data and enable roaming only for the travel line. The setup is small; choosing the right data line is the important bit.
Checked against Nomad's installation help, activation guide and device compatibility page on 19 July 2026.