If you’re planning a trip to the United States, getting a USA eSIM is one of the easiest ways to stay connected without hunting for a local SIM card or dealing with roaming fees.
Services like iRoamly travel eSIM make it simple to get online immediately, whether you arrive in New York, Los Angeles, or anywhere else in the U.S.
In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know: from prerequisites, to how to obtain and activate your U.S. eSIM, where to get one after arrival, and how to pick the best plan for your needs.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting a US eSIM for your trip.
Prerequisites for Purchasing an eSIM in the United States
Before you go ahead and buy a United States eSIM, make sure these conditions are met. Otherwise you might run into frustrating compatibility or activation issues.
1. Device support & compatibility
Before buying an eSIM, the first thing to check is whether your phone supports the technology. Most newer iPhones beginning with the XS model, as well as recent Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices, include eSIM support.
You can confirm this by going to your phone settings and looking for an option like “Add eSIM” under Cellular or SIM Manager.
The device also needs to be unlocked. If it was purchased under a carrier contract or subsidy, it may be restricted to that carrier’s network, which prevents an eSIM from another provider from working.
Keeping your phone’s software up to date is also important, since outdated systems sometimes cause problems with eSIM activation.
2. Know your carrier and network compatibility
In the U.S., major networks are AT&T, T-Mobile (and their MVNOs), and Verizon. If you’re looking for a USA eSIM, make sure the provider has agreements (or roam agreements) with these networks to ensure reliable coverage.
For instance, an iRoamly travel eSIM offers compatibility with these major networks, making it a convenient option for travelers.
If you have preferences (e.g. you’ll be traveling in rural areas), verify whether the eSIM supports 4G LTE fallback in case 5G is unavailable.
In some rare cases, the network bands your phone supports may not align with U.S. bands, so double-check that your phone supports U.S. LTE/5G bands.
3. Requirements from the eSIM provider
Some eSIM providers require a quick ID verification before purchase, especially if they include a local phone number or SMS service.
Others offer data-only options that don’t require any personal documentation. You should also decide whether to activate your eSIM before departure or upon arrival.
Once all these prerequisites are satisfied, you’re ready to obtain your eSIM.
How to Get an eSIM for the United States?
Here’s a step-by-step guide (with tips) to purchasing and activating an eSIM for U.S. use while you’re still abroad (or before departure).
1. Choose a reputable eSIM provider
Some well-known eSIM providers with U.S. plans (as of 2025) include:
- iRoamly — offers flexible global and U.S. eSIM plans with reliable connectivity and competitive pricing.
- Saily — praised for being affordable, user-friendly, and secure.
- Nomad — good for budget travelers, with coverage across all 50 states.
- GigSky — wide U.S. coverage; a data-only option.
- Airalo — fast, with multiple U.S. plans and broad coverage.
- Holafly — known for unlimited data offers (with caveats) and easy setup.
When selecting a provider, consider reputation, user reviews, network coverage, pricing, and whether they offer support.
2. Purchase the eSIM
- Go to the provider’s website or app.
- Browse their U.S. eSIM plans (data amount, validity, voice/SMS if available).
- Select your preferred plan.
- Often you’ll be asked to provide your email, country of residence, and possibly ID verification if needed.
3. Receive the activation details
After your payment goes through, the provider typically sends you:
- A QR code (to scan from your device’s “Add eSIM” screen)
- Activation instructions (sometimes manual provisioning codes: e.g. “SM-DP+ address,” “activation code,” etc.)
- A link within the app to install/activate eSIM
4. Install and activate your eSIM
Common methods:
- QR code scanning: On iOS: Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data → Add eSIM → scan the QR code. On Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM / Add mobile plan → scan.
- In-app activation / auto provisioning: Some providers let you install directly from their app without scanning a QR code (it pushes configuration automatically).
- Manual input: If QR doesn’t work, you may input details manually: activation code, SM-DP+ address, etc.
After installation:
- Enable “Data Roaming” or permit data usage on this eSIM.
- In settings, assign which SIM/eSIM is used for “Mobile Data,” “Voice / SMS” (if applicable), and which is your default line (if you keep your home SIM active).
- Wait a few minutes; sometimes the line registers and connects to a U.S. network automatically.
5. Test connectivity
Once connected, open a browser or mapping app to verify data works. If not, check:
- eSIM is set for mobile data
- Roaming is turned on
- Signal is present (switch to 4G/5G manually if needed)
- Restart your phone if necessary
Where to Get an eSIM in the United States
If you didn’t set up your eSIM before departure (or changed your mind), you have several options in the U.S. to get one on arrival.
1. Buy an eSIM online from official websites or apps
Even after landing in the U.S., you can easily buy and activate a USA eSIM online using WiFi at the airport, hotel, or café.
Most leading eSIM brands like Airalo, iRoamly, Holafly, Nomad, and Saily allow you to purchase, install, and activate directly through their websites or mobile apps.
This online option is fast, affordable, and convenient — perfect if you prefer to skip carrier stores or long queues.
2. Carrier store kiosks or flagship stores
Major U.S. carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) typically have physical stores in cities and malls. Some accept walk-ins and can issue an eSIM. You’ll need your passport or ID and a credit card. Tourist or prepaid eSIMs usually cost around $60–$70 USD for a 30-day package.
3. On-airport kiosks / vending machines
Some international airports in the U.S. have SIM/eSIM kiosks or vending machines for travelers. However, availability varies, and these options are often more expensive.
How to Choose the Best eSIM Plan for Your U.S. Visit
Once you understand how to get an eSIM for the United States, the next step is choosing the plan that best matches your trip. Not all eSIMs are created equal — the right choice depends on your coverage needs, data usage, and how long you plan to stay.
1. Coverage & Network Reliability
Look for eSIMs that use major U.S. networks (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon). Check for reviews on data speeds and signal consistency, especially if you’ll travel outside large cities.
2. Data Allowance & Validity Period
Pick a plan that matches your trip duration and usage needs. Short trips can work with smaller plans; long stays or remote work may need unlimited or large data plans.
3. Voice & SMS Capabilities
If you need a local number, choose a plan that includes calls and texts. If not, a data-only eSIM works fine for WhatsApp or Messenger calls.
4. Price Structure & Hidden Costs
When choosing a USA eSIM for your next trip, it’s important to compare total value, not just upfront cost. Many travelers focus only on the initial price, but hidden charges like taxes, activation fees, or throttling after certain usage limits can quickly add up.
iRoamly travel eSIM offers flexible plans that make it easy to see the full cost, so you can pick the option that truly fits your travel needs without surprises.
5. Ease of Installation & Support
A smooth setup process and responsive customer support are essential — especially if you’re buying last-minute at the airport or during travel.
6. Flexibility & Top-up Options
Look for plans that allow top-ups or extensions without reinstallation. If you travel often, consider providers with reusable eSIM profiles such as iRoamly.
FAQ
1. Do U.S. eSIMs work in other countries if I leave the U.S.?
Most U.S.-specific eSIMs are restricted to U.S. networks. Some providers, however, offer global or roaming-enabled plans that work outside the U.S.
2. Are eSIMs safe from SIM card theft or swapping?
Yes. Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs cannot be physically removed, making them safer from theft or SIM-swap attacks.
3. How do I remove an eSIM from my phone if I no longer need it?
On iOS: Settings > Cellular > eSIM > Remove Cellular Plan. On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Remove eSIM.
4. Can I use a U.S. eSIM on a tablet or smartwatch?
Yes, if the device supports eSIM and the provider allows installation on non-phone devices. Data-only plans are common for tablets and smartwatches.
Conclusion
Getting a USA eSIM is simple with the right preparation. By checking your device compatibility, selecting a trusted provider like iRoamly travel eSIM, and choosing a plan that fits your travel needs, you can stay connected effortlessly from the moment you arrive. With a US eSIM, you avoid the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards and enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your trip.
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