Introduction
eSIMs are becoming the fastest, most convenient way to connect to mobile networks in France, especially for travelers. Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM is embedded in your phone. No physical card is required, just scan a QR code and connect instantly.
Whether you’re new to eSIMs or have used one before, you probably still have questions. That’s why this guide answers the 30 most common questions about using eSIMs in France. From buying the right plan, checking phone compatibility, to activation and managing data while traveling, this guide keeps it simple, clear, and easy to follow.
Whether planning a holiday, business trip, or a digital nomad stay, this is your quick cheat sheet to staying connected in France with minimal fuss, faster internet, and full convenience.
Table of Contents
- How do I buy an eSIM for France?
- Which is the best eSIM for France?
- What should I look for when comparing travel eSIMs for France?
- Do I need documents like a passport to buy a France eSIM?
- Should I buy a France eSIM before I travel?
- How do I install and activate a France eSIM?
- Should I activate the eSIM before leaving or upon arrival in France?
- How do I activate my France eSIM using a QR code?
- Can I install a France eSIM manually if I can’t scan the QR code?
- How do I switch between my primary SIM and France eSIM?
- How do I avoid roaming charges while using a France eSIM?
- What is a travel eSIM and how does it work in France?
- Why use a France eSIM instead of home carrier roaming?
- Is a France eSIM cheaper than international roaming?
- What’s the difference between a France eSIM and a physical SIM?
- Can I use a France eSIM and my regular SIM simultaneously?
- Will I get a new phone number with a France eSIM?
- Can I still receive calls and texts on my home number while using a France eSIM?
- Do France eSIMs include calls and SMS or are they data-only?
- How much data do I need for my trip to France?
- Is my phone unlocked and compatible with France eSIMs?
- What is an eSIM and how does it work in France?
- How do I activate eSIM on an iPhone in France?
- How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another in France?
- Which phones support eSIM in France?
- Can I transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in France?
- How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in France?
- How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while in France?
- How to add an eSIM to an iPhone while traveling to France?
- Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in France?
1. How do I buy an eSIM for France?
To buy a France eSIM, visit MobiMatter or other trusted eSIM providers online. Select a France travel data plan that suits your usage and duration, complete the payment, and receive a QR code via email. Installation instructions are also included. There’s no need for a physical SIM or ID verification, so you can install it in advance or upon arrival. This approach saves time at airports and ensures you’re connected immediately. Whether for business or leisure, purchasing online is secure, quick, and convenient, allowing you to enjoy French mobile networks without any hassle or long queues.
2. Which is the best eSIM for France?
The best France eSIM depends on your travel needs. Light users may choose 1–5 GB plans for maps, messaging, and social media. For heavy usage like streaming, video calls, or remote work, 10–30+ GB plans are ideal. MobiMatter curates top France eSIMs from providers such as Orange, SFR, and Bouygues Telecom. Each plan lists speed, coverage, hotspot support, and price per GB, making comparisons simple. Choose based on duration, usage, and desired network performance. By picking the right plan, you can stay reliably connected across Paris, Nice, Lyon, and rural areas without worrying about slow connections or hidden charges.
MobiMatter’s Pick - France 20 GB
3. What should I look for when comparing travel eSIMs for France?
When comparing France eSIMs, consider: data allowance (GB), validity (days), network provider, 4G/5G speeds, hotspot support, and customer service. Check coverage in both urban and rural areas, as some providers may have weaker signals outside cities. Per-GB cost and actual user reviews also help. MobiMatter provides all details upfront for easy comparison. Decide whether your priority is cost efficiency, data volume, or strong coverage. Frequent travelers should focus on larger plans with stable networks, while casual users may prefer short-term plans for a few days. Choosing wisely ensures smooth connectivity throughout your France trip.
4. Do I need documents like a passport to buy a France eSIM?
No, MobiMatter does not require passports or ID. All you need is an email to receive the QR code and installation instructions. Unlike buying a physical SIM in France, there’s no paperwork or verification required. This 100% digital process is ideal for international travelers who want instant connectivity without language barriers or store visits. Simply purchase online, install your eSIM on a compatible phone, and activate it in France. The process is secure, quick, and private, making it easier than dealing with local telecom shops while ensuring you’re ready to use data immediately upon arrival.
5. Should I buy a France eSIM before I travel?
Yes. Buying your France eSIM in advance is recommended. MobiMatter allows purchase and installation anywhere in the world, letting you scan the QR code over Wi-Fi before landing. Activating it only when you arrive in France ensures the plan’s validity starts immediately. This avoids airport queues and roaming charges. Advance purchase also ensures instant connectivity for navigation apps, rideshares, or contacting family as soon as you land. Buying ahead is smart travel planning, giving peace of mind and uninterrupted access to local French mobile networks without waiting for store visits or temporary SIM cards.
6. How do I install and activate a France eSIM?
Ensure Wi-Fi is connected. On iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR. On Android, go to Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Alternatively, use manual installation with the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided by MobiMatter. Label the plan (e.g., “France eSIM”) for easy management. Activate only after landing in France to preserve your plan’s validity. Activation usually takes under a minute, connecting you to local networks with 4G or 5G speeds. Once set up, you’re ready for maps, social apps, and communication immediately.
7. Should I activate the eSIM before leaving or upon arrival in France?
Install before traveling, but activate only after arriving in France. Activation triggers the plan’s validity, so early activation may waste days. Use airport or hotel Wi-Fi to activate once landed. This ensures you maximise your data usage and avoid network conflicts. MobiMatter’s instructions guide activation timing for optimal efficiency. Preparing in advance is smart, but use should start only when needed. Following this ensures the full duration of your plan is available while travelling, avoiding unnecessary costs or data loss due to early activation.
8. How do I activate my France eSIM using a QR code?
Connect to Wi-Fi first. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR. On Android: Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Point your camera at the QR code received from MobiMatter. Confirm and label the plan, then enable it as your default data line. Activation takes under a minute. This simple scan-and-go method avoids needing a physical SIM or visiting a telecom store in France. You’ll be online immediately with local mobile networks, ensuring seamless access to data, maps, and messaging.
9. Can I install a France eSIM manually if I can’t scan the QR code?
Yes. MobiMatter provides manual installation using the SM-DP+ address and activation code. On iPhone or Android, go to eSIM settings, select “Add eSIM manually,” and enter the details exactly as provided. This method is useful if your camera cannot scan QR codes or your device has restrictions. Installation takes a few minutes and connects instantly to French networks. MobiMatter also offers step-by-step instructions for clarity. Manual setup ensures everyone can use an eSIM, even with technical or hardware limitations, while staying connected throughout France.
10. How do I switch between my primary SIM and France eSIM?
Go to Cellular or SIM Manager settings. Both your home SIM and France eSIM will appear. Set the France eSIM as default for mobile data while keeping your home SIM active for calls/SMS. Swap anytime by adjusting preferences. This allows staying connected to your home number while using French data. Modern smartphones intelligently manage dual SIM usage, routing calls and data based on settings. This is convenient for travelers needing access to both home and local services without incurring roaming charges.
11. How do I avoid roaming charges while using a France eSIM?
Set the France eSIM as the default data line in Mobile Data settings. Turn off data roaming on your primary SIM to prevent accidental use. This ensures all internet activities—maps, apps, and streaming—use local networks at French rates. MobiMatter provides step-by-step guidance to configure settings before travel. Double-check before landing to avoid unexpected charges. Using your eSIM correctly lets you enjoy fast, reliable data without extra fees, giving peace of mind while exploring France.
12. What is a travel eSIM and how does it work in France?
A travel eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your device, eliminating physical cards. In France, it lets you access networks like Orange, SFR, and Bouygues through MobiMatter. Buy online, install via QR code or manually, and connect instantly. There’s no need for airport SIM cards or documentation. It’s fast, seamless, and ideal for tourists, business travelers, or remote workers. You can navigate, message, or stream right upon landing, avoiding delays and unnecessary costs. eSIMs are perfect for modern travelers who want convenience and reliability in France.
13. Why use a France eSIM instead of home carrier roaming?
Home carrier roaming is expensive, limited, and slow. France eSIMs cost 50–80% less, offering fast local network access like Orange or SFR. No hidden fees, no documents, no store visits—just scan and activate. You get instant connectivity for maps, rides, calls over apps, and streaming. eSIMs provide predictable pricing, better performance, and convenience. For both short and long stays, eSIMs outperform roaming plans, making travel in France more efficient, affordable, and reliable without surprises on your mobile bill.
14. Is a France eSIM cheaper than international roaming?
Yes. France eSIMs are priced like local plans, avoiding high roaming costs, hidden charges, or data caps. Roaming may cost more than a week of eSIM usage. With a France eSIM, you know exactly what you’re paying upfront and enjoy fast network speeds. Even short trips benefit, as one day of roaming can exceed the cost of an eSIM plan. eSIMs are cost-effective, transparent, and reliable for tourists or business travelers, ensuring connectivity without budget surprises.
15. What’s the difference between a France eSIM and a physical SIM?
A France eSIM is fully digital and can be purchased and activated online, no store visit needed. Physical SIMs require in-person purchase, ID verification, and installation. eSIMs allow dual SIM usage, keep home SIM active, and avoid losing small SIM chips. Activation is quick, convenient, and flexible. Most eSIMs offer various plans, clear pricing, and strong network coverage. Ideal for travelers who value speed, simplicity, and seamless connectivity, the eSIM is the modern replacement for traditional SIM cards in France.
16. Can I use a France eSIM and my regular SIM simultaneously?
Yes. Most modern phones support dual SIM functionality — one physical SIM and one eSIM. You can use your home SIM for calls and SMS while the France eSIM handles mobile data. Configure this in your phone’s SIM settings, assigning each SIM its specific role. Dual SIM setup ensures you stay reachable on your home number without incurring roaming fees while enjoying high-speed local data. This is especially useful for business travelers or tourists who need continuous connectivity for navigation, apps, and communication. MobiMatter’s instructions make the process simple, letting you manage both SIMs efficiently throughout your France trip.
17. Will I get a new phone number with a France eSIM?
Most France eSIMs from MobiMatter are data-only, meaning they don’t provide a local phone number. You can continue receiving calls and SMS on your original SIM if dual SIM is enabled. If you require voice or SMS, select a plan that includes VoIP or optional local calling. For most travellers, data is sufficient as messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, or FaceTime cover communication needs. Always check plan features before purchasing to confirm if voice/SMS capabilities are included. Using a data-only eSIM is often simpler and cheaper, especially for navigation, online booking, and staying connected in France without a local number.
18. Can I still receive calls and texts on my home number while using a France eSIM?
Yes. With dual SIM functionality, your primary SIM remains active for calls and SMS while your France eSIM handles data. Ensure roaming is off on your home SIM to avoid unnecessary charges. This setup lets you stay accessible to family, colleagues, or banks while travelling. If needed, you can toggle between SIMs for calls and data. MobiMatter provides step-by-step guidance to ensure proper configuration. Using dual SIM smartly ensures uninterrupted connectivity without roaming costs, making it ideal for travelers visiting multiple regions in France, or for those relying on messaging apps while maintaining access to their main number.
19. Do France eSIMs include calls and SMS or are they data-only?
Most France eSIMs from MobiMatter are data-only, supporting internet-based calls via apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, or Google Meet. Some plans may offer optional voice/SMS bundles, but these are rare. Data-only plans are sufficient for most travelers, covering navigation, messaging, social media, and streaming. For business users needing voice services, check plan specifications for VoIP or local calling features. Using a data-only eSIM simplifies setup, avoids roaming charges, and ensures fast connectivity across France. Always review plan details to match your communication needs, whether casual browsing or professional use.
20. How much data do I need for my trip to France?
Data requirements vary by usage. Light travelers—using maps, emails, and ride-hailing apps typically need 3–5 GB. Moderate users who stream videos, browse social media, or video call may require 10–20 GB. Heavy users, including remote workers or content creators, should consider 30 GB or more. MobiMatter provides plans in various sizes, making it easy to select a package based on expected usage. Track your past mobile activity to estimate needs. It’s better to slightly overestimate to avoid slow speeds or topping up mid-trip. Proper planning ensures uninterrupted connectivity across France.
21. Is my phone unlocked and compatible with France eSIMs?
Your phone must be unlocked and eSIM-compatible to use a France eSIM. Most flagship models after 2020 meet both criteria. For Apple, iPhone XS/XR or newer support eSIM. Android options include Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, and models from Huawei, Oppo, or Xiaomi. Check device settings: Settings → Cellular/Network → Add eSIM. MobiMatter also provides compatibility guides online. If your device is carrier-locked, contact your provider to unlock it. Verifying compatibility beforehand avoids setup issues in France, ensuring your eSIM functions correctly and you remain connected throughout your travels.
22. What is an eSIM and how does it work in France?
An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your device that connects to mobile networks without a physical SIM card. In France, it lets travelers access local carriers like Orange, SFR, or Bouygues through MobiMatter. After purchasing, install via QR code or manually using the SM-DP+ address and activation code. Once activated, your device connects to local networks automatically, offering fast and seamless internet access. eSIMs are ideal for tourists, business travelers, and remote workers, eliminating the need for store visits, paperwork, or swapping SIM cards. Connectivity starts immediately upon landing in France.
23. How do I activate eSIM on an iPhone in France?
Connect to Wi-Fi, then go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. Scan the code from MobiMatter or enter manual activation details. Label the plan (e.g., “France eSIM”) to distinguish it from your home SIM. Set it as your primary data line. Once activated, your iPhone connects to local networks automatically. The process is quick, usually under five minutes, and doesn’t require visiting a telecom store. Using QR codes ensures a hassle-free setup and instant data connectivity throughout France.
24. How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another in France?
Delete the eSIM from your old iPhone: Settings → Cellular → select plan → Remove Cellular Plan. Request a new QR code via MobiMatter dashboard for the same plan. On your new iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → scan the new QR code. Label the plan for clarity and activate it. This process ensures uninterrupted data access and avoids conflicts between devices. Mobimatter provides detailed instructions, making the transition seamless for travelers moving between devices while in France.
25. Which phones support eSIM in France?
Modern phones support eSIM in France, including Apple iPhone XS/XR, iPhone 11–15, Google Pixel 3+ to Pixel 7, Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, Z Fold, and Flip models. Some Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi flagships also work. Check Settings → Cellular/Network → Add eSIM to verify compatibility. MobiMatter’s device compatibility guide provides a comprehensive list. Ensuring device support before travel avoids setup issues and guarantees instant connectivity upon arrival.
26. Can I transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in France?
Direct transfer between iPhone and Android isn’t possible. Request a new QR code from MobiMatter for the France plan. On Android: Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR or manual install with SM-DP+ details. Label the plan accordingly and remove the eSIM from your iPhone to avoid conflicts. The setup takes minutes and ensures uninterrupted connectivity while switching ecosystems. MobiMatter supports this process with clear instructions.
27. How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in France?
Go to Settings → Cellular → Select eSIM → Remove Cellular Plan → Confirm. This deletes the profile from your device but does not cancel the plan. If reinstalling later, request a new QR code from MobiMatter. Deleting unused eSIMs prevents confusion and accidental usage while switching devices. MobiMatter ensures a smooth process for travelers, keeping devices organized and ready for future use.
28. How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while in France?
Connect to Wi-Fi → Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR or manual input. Label the plan (e.g., “France eSIM”) and select as your data line. Once activated, your iPhone connects to local networks instantly. MobiMatter’s instructions provide full guidance for installation. Ensure your device is unlocked and compatible to avoid setup issues. The process takes only minutes and ensures seamless internet access throughout France.
29. How to add an eSIM to an iPhone while traveling to France?
When traveling in France, you can stay connected without worrying about roaming charges by setting up a local eSIM. Start by giving the new plan a clear label to differentiate it from your home SIM and decide if it will be your main data line or used alongside your existing SIM. Next, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code and scan the MobiMatter code or enter the details manually. Within minutes, your iPhone will connect to French mobile networks, providing fast and reliable coverage. MobiMatter offers a simple and secure solution for seamless eSIM activation in France.
30. Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in France?
Check Settings → Cellular/Network → Add eSIM. If visible, your phone supports eSIM. Ensure it’s unlocked. Compatible devices include iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3+, and Samsung Galaxy S20+. Many modern Android flagships also qualify. Verify specs before purchase to ensure seamless installation and connectivity during your France trip. Here is our eSIM compatibility guide for more information.