How eSIM works?

Learn more about eSIM technology...

So, what exactly is an eSIM?

Think of an eSIM (short for "Embedded SIM") as a digital SIM card. Instead of a physical plastic card that you insert into your phone, an eSIM is a profile that you download/install directly onto your device.

For this to work, your smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch has a tiny, built-in chip (called an eUICC). This special chip is designed to securely store and run the eSIM profiles you download, like your ORA travel plan. This is why ensuring your device is eSIM-compatible is key.

Essentially, the eSIM itself is the digital information – containing the necessary credentials to connect to a network and your active ORA mobile plan – that gets installed (embedded) onto your phone.

And what about the QR code?

The QR code we send you isn't the eSIM itself. Think of it as a secure digital key. When you scan it, it tells your device exactly where to go, to safely download and install your ORA eSIM profile.

How does an eSIM work?

After it's been installed (a.k.a. activated), an eSIM can be enabled and disabled directly through your device’s settings.

Once enabled, your phone connects to the best (and supported) mobile network automatically.

You can store multiple eSIM profiles on one device and switch between them as needed — for example, when traveling or using different carriers.

Contemplative Senior Woman with Smartphone

How to set up an eSIM?

Setting up an eSIM is simple.

Set up an eSIM using a QR code

With our QR code, you can install your eSIM on any compatible device, such as iPhone or Android, in just a few steps.

how eSIM works - step 1 — Check if your phone is eSIM-ready.

how eSIM works - step 2 — Pick a country and a data plan.

how eSIM works - step 3 — Pay securely and get your eSIM QR-code.

how eSIM works - step 4 — Activate it – you’re connected.

How do Top-Ups work?

Need more data? Need coverage for a new country? That’s where top-ups come in. A top-up lets you add extra data to an existing eSIM plan – or coverage in a new country – so you can stay connected without reinstalling or buying a new eSIM.

At ORA, we bring together global eSIM providers like 3HK, Ubigi, and more – all in one platform. But once you’ve activated a plan from one provider, top-ups are only possible with that same brand.

For example: If you’re using a 3HK plan, your top-up must come from 3HK – not from another provider like Ubigi.

The good news?

ORA makes it easy. You can manage all your eSIMs in one place – just check your plan details, see available top-ups, and extend your data instantly with the right provider.

Let’s make it easy.

Activate your eSIM today or save it for when you land. We’ve made it flexible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common things people ask about using eSIM with ORA — from everyday use to technical details.

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If you can't find the answer you're looking for, feel free to reach out to our support team. We're here to assist you!

How eSIM works?

Learn more about eSIM technology...

So, what exactly is an eSIM?

And what about the QR code?

How does an eSIM work?

How to set up an eSIM?

Set up an eSIM using a QR code

How do Top-Ups work?

The good news?

Let’s make it easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my ORA eSIM in multiple countries?

What happens if I run out of data while traveling?

Will my existing phone number stay the same with an eSIM?

Can I temporarily deactivate my eSIM if I’m not using it?

Can I use ORA for long-term travel or remote work?

Does an eSIM drain my battery faster?

Is eSIM safe to use for data and personal information?

What should I do before deleting an eSIM profile?

Is eSIM available on smartwatches or tablets?

What if my eSIM stops working?