Travel eSIM reloadable FAQ


The Expiration Time refers to the final date and time the QR code remains valid. Customers have 60 days from the date of purchase to scan and activate the QR code before it expires. The eSIM includes a 180-day validity period for reloading, starting from the date of purchase. Each successful reload will automatically extend the validity by an additional 180 days.

The Terminate Time refers to the point in time when the eSIM is removed or deactivated from your device.
Each plan will automatically activate once your device connects to the local network of the respective destination.
Please note that certain areas may not have 5G coverage.
In such instances, your connection will switch to 4G/a lower bandwidth; It will automatically reconnect to 5G data*, once in a 5G-covered area.

*5G data speed is only applicable for enabled 5G mobile devices. Additionally, older mobile models may not perform at the desired speed, as compared to newer ones.
Depending on the device model and internet speed, activation for eSIMs may typically take up to 30 minutes. Please ensure a stable connection for a smooth activation process.
These messages typically appear before you reach your destination. Since the eSIM is designed for use in the intended country, it will only be fully activated once it connects to the local network upon arrival.

If you receive an “Unable to Activate” message, don’t worry — this usually means the eSIM has been successfully installed on your device. You can confirm this by checking your mobile data service settings.
You can verify this directly on your device. If the eSIM is installed correctly, you’ll see an on/off toggle that lets you enable or disable it.

For iPhone (iOS): Go to Settings → Mobile Data (or Cellular) → Mobile Data Plans. You’ll see your eSIM listed there with an on/off switch.

For Android: Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs (or Mobile Network). Your eSIM profile will appear with an option to turn it on or off.
Data Roaming function can be turned on upon arriving at your destination to ensure seamless connectivity. Please remember to turn off your local telco's SIM to avoid roaming charges on your personal line.
It is not advisable to preset your APN prior to your arrival. If required, you can easily update your APN settings once you arrive at your destination to establish a proper connection.
Data usage that is shown on your mobile device (more for iOS models) may differ from eSIM data tracking due to a 24-hour delay in your device's reflection of data usage. Changi Travel eSIM is able to provide accurate real-time data tracking, please click here to track your data.
For all countries, the usage duration for the eSIM purchased, starts as soon as the eSIM is installed & activated on your device and it connects to the local network at your destination.
Majority of the countries for Changi Travel eSIMs’ data usage use a 24-hour period format based on the time of activation.

For example, your 4-day Japan eSIM plan will last for exactly 4 days from the moment it's activated, following the 24-hour period format. If you activate your eSIM at 1:33 PM on 1 Jan 2024, it will expire at 1:32 PM on 5 Jan 2024.

Important Exception: Only Thailand and Vietnam’s eSIM plans have a daily resetting at 00:00 Hrs (midnight), regardless of the time zone. The expiration time is calculated based on the day of activation, not on the specific time of activation.

For instance, if you activate your 3-day Thailand eSIM at 2.30pm on 1 Jan 2024, it will end at 11.59pm on 3rd Jan 2024, regardless of the time zone. I.e It is not a full 72 hours usage (starting from the day of activation, no matter the time it was activated).
For IOS devices, go to:
● your mobile device’s “Settings” > “Mobile Service / Cellular” > “Add eSIM”.

For Android devices, go to
● your mobile device’s “Settings” > “Connections/Mobile Network” > “SIM Management” > “Add eSIM”.

If the “Add eSIM” feature is shown, your device is eSIM compatible.

Alternatively, you may try keying in *#06# on your mobile's dial pad. If your device is eSIM compatible, you should see an EID number on the screen.

As shown in the sample below.
Note: not all mobile devices are able to use this shortcut method.