Getting Started
What are eSIMs and how do they work?
Stay connected on your travels with eSIMs on Skratch, offering quick and easy mobile data around the world. Learn more about how they work and the benefits below! What are eSIMs? Say goodbye to physical sims or sneaky roaming charges when you travel. A Skratch eSIM is a fully digital and fast way to get local mobile data when you travel. Think of an eSIM likePopularIs my device compatible with an eSIM?
Skratch will automatically tell you if your device is compatible or not with an eSIM. If you want to double check, here are three simple ways to do so: 1. Check if your device settings include an “Add eSIM” option Samsung: Open Settings Connections SIM card manager Add eSIM IfPopularDo I need to remove my physical SIM to use an eSIM?
No, you don’t need to remove your physical SIM card to use an eSIM. Most modern smartphones support dual SIM functionality, which means you can use your physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time. This setup is especially useful for travelers: Keep your main number active on your physical SIM for calls and texts. Use your eSIM for data while abroad, often at better local rates. Easily switch between networks in your phone’s settings. However, if you’d like to use only your eSIM, you can rFew readersCan I still receive calls while using an eSIM?
Yes, you can still receive calls while using an eSIM. If your phone supports dual SIM (most modern smartphones do), you can keep your physical SIM active for calls and texts while using your eSIM for data. This means: Your main number stays reachable for calls and SMS. You can choose which SIM handles calls or data in your phone’s settings. If needed, you can switch to using the eSIM for calls as well. How to check your physical SIM is enabled for calls and SMS In order to use yoFew readersCan I have multiple eSIMs installed at once?
Yes, most devices support multiple data plans at once which you can switch on/off as you need. However, you can usually use only one eSIM at a time (or one eSIM plus a physical SIM).Few readersDoes Skratch share my data with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)?
Yes but only the minimum identifiers required for network activation, including IMEI, EID and ICCID. No further user data is shared with third parties as per our Terms and Privacy Policy.Few readers
Purchasing an eSIM
How do I buy an eSIM on Skratch?
Buying an eSIM on Skratch is simple and easy. In a few taps, you’ll have a brand new eSIM plan you can install ready to travel. Step 1: Explore eSIM plans Open Skratch Access the eSIMs explorer via the Explore tab or My eSIMs tab (see below) Choose a country or region Step 2: Select a data plan Choose the data plan and duration that suits your travelFew readersShould I get my eSIM in advance before I travel?
Yes, it’s usually best to buy and install your eSIM before you travel. That way, you’ll be ready to connect as soon as you land, without needing Wi-Fi or searching for a SIM card shop. This can also be a smart way to avoid any unwanted roaming charges on arrival! Installing your eSIM in advance doesn’t mean it’s activated - this will only happen when you arrive at the destination and connect to a local network. Likewise the validity period of your eSIM won’t start until that happens. More detaiFew readersCan I buy an eSIM for multiple countries?
Yes, we offer Skratch regional eSIMs which give you all the benefits of connectivity across a range of countries at once. Our regional eSIM plans include: Central Asia China, Hong Kong and Macau Europe Asia Oceania North America Gulf Region East Asia Balkans South America Africa Caribbean Middle East & North AfricaFew readersDoes Skratch offer a Global eSIM?
We currently don’t offer a Global eSIM but stay tuned, this is coming soon 👀Few readersDoes Skratch offer Unlimited eSIM plans?
We currently don’t offer a Unlimited eSIM plans but stay tuned, this is coming soon 👀 In the meantime, our country and regional data plans offer affordable pricing, great connectivity and flexible top up so you have all your needs covered.Few readersCan I buy more than one eSIM for the same destination?
Yes, in theory you can buy multiple eSIMs for the same destination. As noted in our “Can I have multiple eSIMs installed at once?” article, most devices allow you to have several eSIM profiles but only one or two active at any time. In this scenario, you could let a family member or friend scan the QR code of your duplicate eSIMs for a given destination. Installing multiple eSIMs for the same destinatFew readersCan I select the start date of my eSIM plan?
You can’t set the specific start date but your eSIM will only activate when you arrive at your destination and it connects to the local network. From that point onwards, your eSIM validity period would begin. For example, if you purchased a 3GB 30 days eSIM for Spain, your 30 days validity would only begin when you touch down in Spain. Even if you install your eSIM before your trip, it won’t activateFew readersWhat happens if I buy an eSIM and never activate it?
If you never activate your eSIM, the plan will eventually expire after 180 days. You would then need to buy a new eSIM plan.Few readersWhat payment methods does Skratch support?
Most major payment methods are supported at checkout including Visa, Mastercard, American Express as well as Apple Pay & Google Pay.Few readersWhere can I see my eSIM purchase history?
You can see all of your eSIMs in the “My eSIMs” tab on Skratch. This includes: Current eSIMs: Installed and/or activated, within their validity period Expired eSIMs: Previously used and outside of their validity period, Unactivated eSIMs for over 180 days post purchaseFew readersHow do I use my eSIMs promo code?
When you have selected an eSIM plan, you’ll be directed to the “Review your order” screen (shown below). You can input your promo code here to apply a discount to the listed price.Few readers
Installing & Activating
What is the difference between eSIM installation and activation?
You might be thinking once I’ve bought an eSIM, isn’t that it? Well almost, you need to first install the eSIM before you can activate and start using it. Installing an eSIM Think of this like the act of installing a piece of software to your phone. This piece of software will include the necessary information that an eSIM requires to establish a mobile network. Exact installation varies by device. You can refer to our detailed installation guide here (https://skratch.crisp.help/en/articlFew readersHow do I install my eSIM?
Congrats, you’ve purchased an eSIM! You’ll be able to follow our simple installation instructions in the Skratch app directly, but in case you need additional reference we’ve included a complete installation guide here. Remember before you install: Ensure you have a reliable WiFi connection to install your eSIM Keep your QR code handy if you can’t use direct installation options Ensure your device is unlocked and fully compatible with eSIMs (https://skratch.crisp.help/en/articlPopularCan I rename an eSIM in my device settings?
Yes, most smartphones let you rename your eSIM in the settings menu. This is helpful if you have more than one eSIM (for example, “Work”, “Travel Data”, or the country name) so you can easily tell them apart. How to rename an eSIM by device iPhone: Go to “Settings” Tap “Cellular” or “Mobile Service” Tap your eSIM plan Edit the plan label Samsung Galaxy: Open “Settings” Tap “Connections” Tap “SIM manager” Select your eSIM and edit the name field Google Pixel: Go tFew readersHow do I update my APN settings?
Sometimes after installing an eSIM, your data may not connect right away. This is often fixed by updating your APN (Access Point Name) settings, which tell your phone how to connect to the mobile network. Certain Skratch eSIMs will require you to manually update your APN settings to access data, such as any plans on Android including Turkey, Uzbekistan or Georgia. How to update your APN settings On iPhone: Go to “Settings” Tap on “Cellular” or “*Mobile ServiceFew readersDo I need Wi-Fi to install my eSIM?
Yes, you need a stable and secure Wi-Fi (or mobile data) connection to install your eSIM. Poor connection may result in issues during the installation process.Few readersHow long do I have to activate my eSIM after purchase?
You have up to 180 days after purchase to activate your eSIM otherwise the plan expires.Few readersHow will I know when my eSIM is activated?
Once you arrive at your destination, your eSIM should automatically activate and start working! You’ll know it’s working if: 📶 Signal bars appear for your eSIM line. 🌍 Mobile data works when Wi-Fi is turned off. ⚙️ On Skratch, your eSIM shows as Active in the 'My eSIMs' tab. 📲 You’ve received a confirmation email or mobile push from Skratch You’ll be able to follow our simple activation instructions in the Skratch app directly, but in case you think your eSIM hasn’t been properly activPopularHow long does my eSIM validity last?
Your eSIM validity is tied to the plan you purchase. On Skratch, 1GB plans have a 7 day validity and all other plans have 30 day validity. Note your validity period begins once your eSIM activates, not before. If you don’t activate your eSIM for 180 days after purchase, it will also expire.Few readersCan I install the same eSIM on multiple devices?
No, you can’t do this. eSIMs are designed to be used on one device at a time - they can’t be installed or reinstalled on multiple devices Please make sure you only install an eSIM on the device you intend to use for the duration of the eSIM’s validity period.Few readersCan I transfer my eSIM to another device once installed?
No you can’t. Once installed, an eSIM is tied to a specific device and can’t be reinstalled or transferred elsewhere. This ensures the eSIM remains securely associated with the intended user and device. If you remove the eSIM from your device for any reason, such as upgrading to a new device or troubleshooting issues, you won't be able to reinstall it — either on the same or any other device. You would need to purchase a new eSIM to connect to a mobile network on your device.Few readers
Using your eSIM
Can I use an eSIM for calls and SMS?
Skratch eSIMs are pre-paid mobile data only meaning you can’t use them to make calls or send SMS text messages. However you can still use internet based calling and messaging services like iMessage, Whatsapp and FaceTime as outlined here.Few readersCan I pause my eSIM once it’s activated?
Unfortunately once a plan is activated, it can’t be paused. The validity period for our 7 Day and 30 Day plans both begin at activation or first network connection. From this point onwards, the countdown continues whether you use the data or not. For this reason, we recommend not activating the data plan until you’re actually ready to use the plan. If you want to “pause” your data usage, there are a few ways you can slow down your consumption: Turn off the eSIM in settings – this stops it fFew readersCan I use iMessage and WhatsApp with my eSIM?
Yes, both iMessage and Whatsapp will continue to work with your Skratch eSIM as these are internet based services.Few readersWhat happens if I use my eSIM in a country where it’s not supported?
Put simply, it won’t work. You won’t be charged anything additional but remember if it’s already been activated in another country, it will remain active and using its validity period.Few readersHow do I avoid roaming charges?
To ensure you don’t incur any roaming charges while using your Skratch eSIM, we generally recommend two precautions: Install your eSIM before your trip - This ensures your eSIM will automatically activate on arrival at your destination without accidentally using your local carrier. More details here. Switch off your Primary plan - In your device settings, ensure your local carrier plan is eithFew readersHow do I check my remaining data balance?
You can review your eSIM’s remaining data balance at any time in the Skratch app via the “My eSIMs” tab. Simply tap on the tab to view your data remaining. You’ll also receive email and mobile push alerts when your eSIM is running low on data.Few readersHow do I top up my data balance?
If you need an extra boost of data, you can top up in seconds! Topping up your eSIM adds data to your existing balance and extends the validity - a double bonus. To top up, simply go to “My eSIMs” in the Skratch app, tap “Top Up” on your eSIM and pick your plan. The rest works exactly the same aswhen you first bought the eSIM. You’ll receive an email confirmation once you’ve paid for your top upFew readersHow do I set a data limit for my eSIM on Android?
If you’re worried about using too much data on your eSIM, you can set a data limit or warning directly in your Android phone’s settings. This helps you stay in control while traveling. For Samsung Galaxy Open Settings Tap “Connections” then “Data Usage” Ensure Mobile Data is On Tap “Billing cycle and data warning” Tap “Start billing cycle” and set date to your arrival date at your destination Enable “Set data warning” and specify the data warning inFew readersHow do I check which eSIMs I am using?
Here’s you how can double check which eSIM you are currently using: On iPhone: Go to “Settings” Tap “Cellular” or “Mobile Service” Tap “Cellular Data” or “Mobile Data” Check which plan is being used On Samsung Galaxy: Go to “Settings” Go to "Connections" Go to “SIM Card Manager” Check under “*Few readersDo top ups extend the validity of my eSIM?
Yes they do on Skratch! When you top up, you’re adding data to your eSIM and extending its validity. For example: You purchase a 10GB for 30 days You’ve used it for a few days and now it has 5GB and 20 days remaining You top up with 1GB for 7 days Your eSIM now has 6GB for 27 days (existing + top up)Few readersDoes my eSIM let me tether/hotspot?
All Skratch eSIM plans include wi-fi hotspot and internet sharing. The availability of wi-fi hotspot ultimately depends on the local network carrier.Few readersDoes Skratch offer automatic top up?
We currently don’t offer automatic top ups but stay tuned, this is coming soon 👀Few readersWhat data speed does my eSIM include?
Skratch eSIMs are powered by an extensive range of global Tier 1 operators to ensure the fastest and most reliable internet connectivity around the world. Most of our eSIM plans offer up to 4G/LTE and 5G network speeds but the speed is ultimately dependent on the availability and quality of the network in your current location. Should you experience persistent low speed connectivity with your eSIM plan, please reach out to our support team.Few readersWhat happens when I run out of data or validity?
If your eSIM runs out of data during the validity period, you can top up to add more data. If your eSIM validity period ends, your eSIM will expire and you will need to buy a new one.Few readersHow do I turn off or delete an expired eSIM?
Deleting expired or unused eSIMs ensures better device functionality and avoids confusion in cellular settings. ⚠️ Before you delete an eSIM: Make sure you only delete the eSIM when you are no longer going to use it Save the original QR code or credentials to reinstate it if needed in the future Always ensure the eSIM is not actively in use before deletion to avoid connectivity issues How to remove on iPhone Go to “Settings” Tap “Cellular” or “Mobile Service”Popular
Troubleshooting
How do I solve a PDP authentication error?
A PDP authentication error usually appears when your phone can’t connect to the mobile network using your eSIM. This often happens because your APN (Access Point Name) settings are missing or incorrect. How to resolve a PDP authentication error Option 1: Reset your network settings On iPhone: Go to “Settings” “General” “Transfer or Reset iPhone” “Reset” "Reset Network Settings” Restart your device On Samsung Galaxy: Go to “Settings” “Few readersWhy haven’t I received my eSIM or top up yet?
If you’ve successfully purchased an eSIM, you will immediately receive a payment confirmation via email and see a “You’re ready to travel” screen on Skratch. It typically takes a few seconds after purchase for your actual eSIM plan to appear so don’t worry, if you’ve received all the relevant confirmations hang tight - it will appear in your Skratch app “My eSIMs” tab within seconds.Few readersWhy am I unable to activate my eSIM?
If you’ve successfully installed your eSIM, you should be able to activate your eSIM automatically upon arrival at your destination. If you’re experiencing any activation issues, it’s hopefully something easy to resolve. Here’s a checklist of potential reasons your eSIM may not be activating: Arrived at destination? Make sure you are already at your destination and connected to a local network. Your eSIM won’t work in any country outside of the plan coverage Too many eSIMs? DPopularWhy is my eSIM stuck at activating status?
Sometimes once you’ve installed a new eSIM on iPhone devices, you’ll notice it’s stuck at “Activating” in your settings. Don’t worry - your eSIM is successfully installed! This typically happens because you’ve installed it and your phone is trying to connect to a local network in that destination country. Once you reach your destination and the device is within the network coverage area, the eSIM should activate successfully, and you can start using it. (https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helFew readersWhat does ‘Cellular Plans from This Carrier Cannot Be Added’ mean?
The following error may appear for iPhone users if you are trying to install an eSIM on a network-locked device: You can check if you device is indeed locked, you can check by: Going to “Settings” Tap “General” then “About” Under “Carrier Lock” check if you see a messaging saying ‘No SIM restrictions’ If you don’t see this message you will need to cFew readersWhat does ‘"Unable to Complete Cellular Plan Change’ mean?
Some iPhone users may experience the following installation error: If you experience an “Unable to Complete Cellular Plan Change” error, then it could be due to: Too many eSIMs installed: Most devices support multiple eSIMs but it could be that you’ve exceeded the number for your device here (https://skratch.crisp.help/en/article/can-i-have-multiple-esims-installeFew readersWhat does ‘Unsupported eSIM’ mean?
If you’re seeing the “Unsupported eSIM” alert shown below on iPhone, your device is unlocked and can’t be used with eSIMs. To verify if your device is locked: Going to “Settings” Tap “General” then “About” Under “Carrier Lock” check if you see a messaging saying ‘No SIM restrictions’ If you don’t see this message you will need to contact your carrier to unlock your device. If not, then please reach out to for further support.Few readersWhy am I getting ‘Invalid QR code’ or ‘This code is no longer valid’ alerts?
If you receive any messages such as “Invalid QR code”, “eSIM cannot be added” or “This code is no longer valid” while installing your eSIM, it could be due to a couple of reasons: You have a poor Wi-Fi connection and only partially scanned the QR code You’ve already added an eSIM before This is a common issue for iOS devices using manual or QR code installation. In order to check if you already have an eSIM installed, you can check in the “My eSIMs” tab in the Skratch app and doubleFew readersHow many eSIM profiles can be stored on my device?
The number of eSIM profiles you can store depends on your phone model. Most smartphones let you keep multiple eSIMs saved at once, but only one or two can be active simultaneously. Indicative limits by major devices Apple iPhone iPhone XS / XR / 11 / 12: Up to 5–6 eSIMs stored, but only 1 active at a time. iPhone 13 and newer: Up to 8+ eSIMs stored, with 2 active at once. iPhone 14 (US models): eSIM-only (no physical SIM slot). Samsung Galaxy Recent models (S21Few readersWhen can I re-use/re-install an eSIM?
Skratch eSIMs can technically be re-installed on the same device up to 10 times. Note that once activated, an eSIM will become tied to the device’s hardware and can’t be installed or re-installed on another device. In general we don’t recommend deleting an eSIM until you are completely finished using it. If you want to temporarily disable your eSIM, follow our steps here to pause your data usage.Few readersWhat happens to unused data when an eSIM expires?
Unfortunately when your eSIM expires, you will lose any unused data. Once an eSIM validity period ends, you won't be able to top up and will need to purchase a new eSIM plan.Few readersWhere do I find my eSIM’s ICCID number?
You can look up your eSIM plan ICCID in the Skratch app with a few quick steps: Tap “My eSIMs” Select your active eSIM plan Tap the three dots to show more details Your ICCID will be listedFew readersWhat do I do if I accidentally deleted my eSIM?
If you’ve removed an eSIM profile from your device by mistake, you can re-install it without any issue up to 10 times. If you’ve lost access to the eSIM altogether, please reach out to and we'll assist.Few readersCan I reinstall a deleted eSIM?
Yes, you can re-install an eSIM tied to your device up to 10 times (more details here). In general we don’t recommend deleting an eSIM until you are completely finished using it. If you want to temporarily disable your eSIM, follow our steps here to pause your data usage.Few readersWhy is my eSIM data connection slow?
Skratch eSIMs offer the best possible connectivity in destinations all over the world. If you are experiencing slow eSIM data, this could be due to regional coverage, network congestion, or prioritization of the local carrier. Checklist for your eSIM data connection Check your device’s signal strength indicator to ensure you have a strong signal. If you don’t, it could be due to your location (i.e. if you’re somewhere remote) If required, check your APN settings as per our instructFew readersWhat if I can’t find the answer to my eSIM problem?
We are here to help. If you can’t find an answer to your request in our knowledge base, please ask a question via our in-app support chat or email .Few readersCan I still use an eSIM in Turkey despite the ban?
As of mid-2025, Turkey’s telecom regulator (BTK) has placed restrictions on many international eSIM providers and blocked people from inside Turkey from downloading new eSIM plans. The good news is you can still use an eSIM but with some important caveats. How to avoid eSIM problems in Turkey Get your eSIM before travel - Purchase and install your Skratch eSIM while you're in your home country or somewhere outside Turkey, so you don’t rely on accessing a blocked site once insideFew readers
Refunds
What is the Skratch refund policy for eSIMs?
The following refund policy is effective as of 1st October 2025 as part of our broader Terms of Service. Refund eligibility Refunds may be granted within 30 days if: eSIM unused (not activated or no data consumed). Activation fails due to Skratch technical issues or network problems. Device listed as compatible but eSIM fails after troubleshooting. QR code or instructions are not received within 24 hours. Prepaid plans: less thanFew readersHow does the money back guarantee work?
Skratch is committed to the best eSIM connectivity and customer experience. If you are encountering issues with your eSIM, please consult our knowledge base first to troubleshoot the issue and then reach out to our support team at to see how we can help. If we can’t resolve your issue and you still aren't satisfied, we will offer a 100% refund - no questions asked. Refer to our refund policy here (https://skratch.crisp.help/en/article/what-is-the-skratFew readersHow do I request a refund?
Please submit a request to with the subject “eSIM Refund Request,” including order number, plan details, reason, and supporting evidence. Our team will respond as timely as possible to all incoming refund requests, which will be reviewed in line with our refund policy.Few readers