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This guide is for iPhones on an iOS version earlier than 26. If you’re not sure which version you have, check Settings → General → About → Software Version — on iOS 26 and later, see Install on iPhone.
Your eSIM will not be named “SimSIM” on your device — it appears under a local network’s name at your destination, which is normal. The eSIM you just installed always appears at the bottom of the line list. More details.
On earlier versions of iOS, some settings appear as a wizard during installation itself. The steps are similar to newer versions, but the screen order differs.
1

Open My eSIMs and tap install

In the SimSIM app, go to My eSIMs, open your plan, and tap Install eSIM.
2

Approve adding the eSIM

Approve the request and tap Continue if prompted. Installation takes a few minutes — don’t close the screen partway through.
3

Default line — choose your primary line

When asked which line should be the default, choose your primary line and tap Continue. This keeps calls and messages arriving on your usual number.
4

FaceTime and iMessage — choose your primary line

Choose your primary line here too and tap Continue, so iMessage and FaceTime keep working from the number people know.
5

Cellular data — choose your primary line

Choose your primary line here too and tap Continue.
6

Confirm data roaming is enabled

Tap the eSIM you enabled and confirm Data Roaming is on. Without it you’ll have no internet at your destination, even if installation succeeded.
The eSIM you just installed always appears at the bottom of the line list.
7

After you land — switch your data line

Once you arrive, tap Cellular Data and select the eSIM you set up.

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If something isn’t working

The most common problem by far is data roaming being switched off on the new line. If you have no internet at your destination, check that first. For more checks see Troubleshooting, confirm your model is on the compatible device list, or see installing on Android if you’re setting up a different device.