How to Get an eSIM Without a QR Code: A Complete Guide

The eSIM revolution is here, offering incredible convenience for travelers, digital nomads, and anyone looking to simplify their mobile connectivity. But what happens when you need to activate an eSIM and the traditional QR code method isn’t an option? Whether you’ve lost the code, your phone’s camera is malfunctioning, or your provider simply doesn’t offer one, you’re not out of luck. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the proven methods to get and activate an eSIM without a QR code, ensuring you stay connected seamlessly.

Understanding eSIMs and the Role of QR Codes

An eSIM (embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a digital SIM card embedded directly into your device. Unlike a physical SIM, it can be programmed remotely with carrier profiles. The QR code has become the standard activation method because it provides a simple, secure way to transfer the complex activation data (a string of numbers and letters called the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code) to your phone’s camera. It’s a convenient bridge, but it’s not the only bridge available.

Why You Might Need an eSIM Without a QR Code

Several scenarios make QR-code-less activation necessary or preferable:

Damaged or Non-Functional Camera: Your phone’s camera is broken, dirty, or otherwise unable to scan.
Lost or Unreadable QR Code: The printed code is smudged, or you received it digitally but can’t access the image.
Provider Doesn’t Supply One: Some carriers, especially when purchasing online, may only provide the activation details in text form.
Accessibility Needs: For users with visual impairments, manual entry can be more accessible.
Remote Activation: You need to help someone else activate an eSIM on their device from afar.

Primary Methods for eSIM Activation Without a QR Code

If you have your eSIM purchase confirmation but no scannable code, you typically need two crucial pieces of information: the SM-DP+ Address (Server) and the Activation Code. These are often included in your email receipt or account dashboard, even if a QR code is also present.

Method 1: Manual Entry (The Most Common Alternative)

This is the direct alternative to scanning. Follow these steps carefully:

On your smartphone, go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data.
Tap « Add Cellular Plan » or « Add eSIM. »
Look for an option labeled « Enter Details Manually » or « Use Activation Code. » (On iPhone, it may say « Enter Details Manually » at the bottom of the QR scanner screen).
You will be prompted to enter two fields:
- SM-DP+ Address: This looks like a URL (e.g., LPA.GR1.ESIM.MNC01.MCC302.3GPPNETWORK.ORG). Copy and paste it exactly.
- Activation Code: This is a long alphanumeric string. Enter it precisely, paying attention to capital letters and hyphens.
Follow the remaining on-screen prompts to label the plan and set default lines.

Pro Tip: Double-check for typos. These codes are long and case-sensitive. Using copy-paste from your email is highly recommended.

Method 2: Carrier App or Website Activation

Many major carriers have integrated eSIM activation directly into their official apps or customer portals. This method often bypasses QR codes entirely.

For Existing Customers: Log into your carrier’s app (e.g., Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T). Navigate to the section for managing your line or adding a plan. If your device is eSIM-compatible, the app can often push the profile directly to your phone over the internet.
For New Purchases: When buying a plan from an eSIM provider like Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad, complete the purchase on their website. Instead of downloading a QR code, look for an « Install via App » or « Direct Activation » button. This usually requires you to install the provider’s companion app, which then handles the secure installation.

Method 3: Contacting Customer Support

If manual details aren’t provided and there’s no app, your next best step is to contact the provider’s customer support.

Have your order number and device IMEI (usually found in Settings > General > About) ready.
Explain that you need the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code for manual entry.
A competent support agent can retrieve this information from your account and provide it via secure chat or email.
Some advanced support teams can even initiate a « push notification » activation, where they send a configuration profile directly to your device, which you then approve in a notification.

Method 4: Using a Companion App from the eSIM Provider

Many global eSIM data providers now use their own apps as the primary delivery method. Here’s how it works:

1. Purchase your eSIM data plan on the provider’s website.
2. Download their official app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
3. Create an account or log in using the same email used for purchase.
4. Inside the app, you’ll see your purchased plan. Tap « Install » or « Activate. »
5. The app communicates directly with your phone’s eSIM manager, installing the profile without ever showing you a QR code. This is often the smoothest and most reliable method.

Step-by-Step Guide for Popular Phone Models

For iPhone (iOS)

Ensure you have a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi is best).
Go to Settings > Cellular.
Tap « Add Cellular Plan. »
On the QR code scanner screen, look for the small text at the bottom: « Enter Details Manually. » Tap it.
Enter the SM-DP+ Address in the first field.
Enter the Activation Code in the second field.
Tap Next and complete the setup.

For Android (Pixel, Samsung, etc.)

The path can vary slightly by manufacturer, but the general process is similar.

Connect to Wi-Fi.
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager (or Network & Internet > Mobile network).
Tap « Add mobile plan » or « Download a SIM instead? »
You may be given an option to « Enter Code » instead of scanning. Select it.
Input the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code when prompted.
Follow the prompts to finish installation.

Note: On some Samsung devices, you might go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

« Invalid Code » Error: Re-check the codes for typos. Ensure there are no extra spaces at the beginning or end. The SM-DP+ Address usually starts with « LPA: » or « https:// ».
No Manual Entry Option: Some carrier-locked phones may hide this. Try searching your settings for « Add eSIM » or contact your current carrier to unlock the feature.
Profile Won’t Download: Ensure you have a strong, stable internet connection. The download requires data. Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
Can’t Find Activation Details: Scour your purchase confirmation email. Check spam folders. Log into your account on the provider’s website—details are often in a « My eSIMs » or « Orders » section.

Security Considerations and Best Practices

Activating an eSIM manually is secure, but vigilance is key.

Source from Reputable Providers: Only buy eSIMs from trusted carriers or established global eSIM companies.
Protect Your Codes: Treat your SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code like a password. Don’t share them publicly.
Verify the Source: If customer support sends you codes, ensure you’re communicating through the provider’s official channel.
Delete Old Profiles: Once you’re done with a temporary travel eSIM, go to Settings > Cellular, tap on the plan, and select « Remove Cellular Plan » to keep your device tidy and secure.

The Future of eSIM Activation: Beyond QR Codes

The industry is rapidly moving towards even simpler methods. Look for these trends:

Direct In-Device Purchases: Apple already allows some carriers to sell plans directly in the Settings app.
Standardized Remote Provisioning: New GSMA standards will make carrier-to-device provisioning more seamless.
Zero-Touch Activation: Simply signing into a carrier app on a new phone could automatically migrate your number and plan via eSIM.

Conclusion: Embrace the Flexibility of eSIMs

While QR codes are convenient, the inability to use one should never be a barrier to enjoying the benefits of eSIM technology. As we’ve detailed, multiple robust pathways exist—from manual entry and carrier apps to direct support assistance. The key is knowing where to find your activation details (the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code) and understanding how to input them into your device’s settings. By mastering these methods, you unlock the full potential of eSIMs: the ultimate flexibility to switch plans, add temporary data, and manage multiple lines, all with the tap of a screen, QR code or not. The future of connectivity is digital, and it’s designed to be accessible to everyone.