Frequently Asked Questions

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your device's hardware. Unlike a physical SIM, it cannot be removed or physically swapped. Instead, you download a carrier profile (a set of network credentials) onto the eSIM chip. You can store multiple profiles and switch between them in software. Airalo provides these profiles as downloadable QR codes.

Most flagship smartphones released after 2018 support eSIM, including iPhone XS and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and many others. However, compatibility also depends on your carrier — a network-locked device will not accept an eSIM from another provider. Check Airalo's compatibility list and confirm your device is unlocked before purchasing.

No. Airalo eSIM plans are data-only. They do not include voice calls or a local phone number. For calls, use VoIP applications such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, or Google Meet over the Airalo data connection. Keep your primary UK SIM active for receiving calls and SMS.

This varies by plan. Most Airalo plans start validity from the moment of first use — i.e., when your device first connects to a local network abroad. Some plans start from the date of purchase. Always check the specific plan's terms before buying, especially if you plan to purchase well in advance of your trip.

Hotspot (tethering) is permitted on the majority of Airalo plans, but not all. Check the plan details page for a tethering statement. If tethering is essential for your trip — for example, to connect a laptop — verify this before purchasing.

If your plan supports top-ups, you can purchase additional data through the Airalo app without reinstalling anything. If top-ups are not available, you can purchase a new plan for the same destination — this will require installing a new eSIM profile (if your device supports multiple eSIM profiles) or replacing the existing one.

Airalo's refund policy allows refunds for plans that have not yet been installed (QR code not scanned). Once installed, plans are generally non-refundable, even if unused. Contact Airalo support promptly if your plans change before installation. See our Policies page for more detail.

Airalo provides support via in-app live chat (available 24/7) and email. Response times for chat are typically under 10 minutes during peak hours. For complex issues, email support may take 1–3 business days. AiralSim is not affiliated with Airalo and cannot resolve account or billing issues on your behalf — contact Airalo directly.

Airalo uses industry-standard payment processing (Stripe) and does not store your full card details. The platform is used by millions of travellers globally. As with any online purchase, use a reputable card with fraud protection and review your statement after purchase.

Yes, provided the device supports eSIM. iPads (cellular models, 2018 onwards), some Windows laptops (Surface Pro X, Dell XPS with LTE), and Chromebooks with eSIM support can all use Airalo plans. Check your specific device model's eSIM support before purchasing.

Traditional roaming uses your UK SIM on a foreign network, with charges applied by your UK provider (often per MB or as a daily add-on). Airalo provides a pre-paid local data plan at local rates, typically 60–90% cheaper than roaming charges for heavy data users. The trade-off is that Airalo is data-only — you retain your UK number for calls via your primary SIM.

On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → select the Airalo line → Remove Cellular Plan. On Android: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → select the eSIM → Delete. Warning: Deleting an eSIM profile is permanent. The QR code cannot be reused. Only delete when you are certain you no longer need the plan.