eSIM not working? How to fix 'No Service' and activation issues
Most eSIM problems come down to a few simple settings, and the majority are fixed in a couple of minutes. Work through the checks below in order — from the quick fixes that solve the most cases to the settings that matter most when your eSIM shows 'No Service' abroad.
Try these first
- Restart your phone — this alone clears most temporary network errors.
- Toggle Airplane mode on for 15 seconds, then off, to force a fresh network search.
- Confirm you've actually arrived in the plan's coverage area — a travel eSIM only connects there.
- Check the eSIM line is switched on in Settings and selected for mobile data.
If you see 'No Service'
Almost always this is roaming or line selection. Make sure Data Roaming is enabled for the eSIM line (a travel eSIM connects to partner networks, so it needs roaming on), that the eSIM is set as your mobile data line, and that Mobile Data is turned on. If your phone won't pick a network automatically, try selecting one manually in the network settings.
Key settings to check
- Data Roaming: ON for the eSIM line — this does not mean home-carrier charges; it lets the eSIM use local networks.
- Mobile Data line: set to the alodata eSIM, not your home SIM.
- APN: if you have signal but no data, check the plan's APN is entered correctly.
Still not connecting?
Update your phone's software, then restart once more. Confirm your device is carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible, and that the plan hasn't run out of data or validity. If none of that helps, your alodata order details include everything support needs to get you online — reach out and we'll help.
See also: Use an eSIM and physical SIM together
Frequently asked questions
Why does my eSIM say 'No Service'?
Usually because Data Roaming is off for the eSIM line, the wrong line is selected for data, or you're not yet in the plan's coverage area. Enable roaming for the eSIM, select it for mobile data, and restart.
Do I need to delete and reinstall my eSIM to fix it?
No — and you shouldn't. Most plans can only be installed once, so deleting an eSIM can lose it for good. Work through the settings checks first; reinstalling is rarely the answer.
My eSIM worked yesterday and stopped. What happened?
Check whether your plan ran out of data or reached its validity limit, and that roaming is still enabled for that line. A quick restart also re-registers you on the local network after moving between areas.