Introduction
Germany is known for its innovation, and eSIM technology is no exception. Whether you’re travelling for business, studying abroad, or exploring cities like Berlin, Munich, or Frankfurt, an eSIM gives you instant mobile data access without the need for a plastic SIM card. Simply scan a QR code, and you’re online within minutes.
If you’re new to digital SIMs or want to make your next trip seamless, this guide answers the 30 most frequently asked questions about eSIMs in Germany. From buying, installing, and activating to troubleshooting and switching between plans, everything is covered in a simple, practical way.
We’ve designed this Germany eSIM Guide as your complete travel connectivity handbook — clear, jargon-free, and traveler-friendly. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent flyer, you’ll find everything you need to stay connected across Germany with ease.
Table of Contents
- How to buy an eSIM for Germany?
- Which is the best eSIM for Germany?
- What should I look for when comparing different travel eSIMs for Germany?
- Do I need to provide any documents like a passport to buy a travel eSIM for Germany?
- Can I buy an eSIM for Germany in advance or should I wait until I arrive?
- How do I install and activate my international eSIM for Germany?
- Should I activate my travel eSIM before I leave or when I arrive in Germany?
- How do I activate my Germany eSIM using a QR code?
- What if I can't scan the QR code for my Germany eSIM? Is there a manual installation method?
- How do I switch between my primary SIM and my travel eSIM on my phone in Germany?
- How do I make sure I am using the Germany eSIM for data and not my home plan to avoid roaming charges?
- What is a travel eSIM and how does it work for international trips to Germany?
- Why should I use an eSIM for Germany travel instead of my home carrier's roaming plan?
- Is an eSIM cheaper than international roaming when visiting Germany?
- What's the difference between a Germany travel eSIM and a local physical SIM card?
- Can I use a Germany eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
- Will I get a new phone number with a Germany travel eSIM?
- Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a Germany eSIM for data?
- Do Germany travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data-only?
- How much data will I need for my trip to Germany?
- Is my phone unlocked and compatible with Germany eSIMs?
- What is an eSIM card and how does it work in Germany?
- How to activate eSIM on iPhone in Germany?
- How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another iPhone in Germany?
- Which smartphones are compatible with eSIM in Germany?
- How can I move my eSIM from an iPhone to an Android device in Germany?
- What’s the process to remove an eSIM from an iPhone in Germany?
- How to set up eSIM on iPhone while traveling to Germany?
- How to activate an eSIM on your iPhone when you're in Germany?
- Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in Germany?
1. How to buy an eSIM for Germany?
Buying an eSIM for Germany is quick and can be done entirely online. You can purchase it from Mobimatter, which offers reliable coverage through top German networks such as Telekom (T-Mobile), Vodafone, and O2. After choosing a plan, complete the payment, and you’ll receive a QR code via email. Simply scan it to install your eSIM. While some airports and mobile stores in Germany also sell eSIMs, online options like Mobimatter are faster, more convenient, and often more reliable. Before buying, ensure your smartphone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible, as older devices may not support this digital SIM technology.
2. Which is the best eSIM for Germany?
The best eSIM for Germany depends on your trip length and data needs. Mobimatter’s Germany eSIM is one of the most popular options, offering strong 4G and 5G coverage through Telekom’s extensive network. For longer stays, local prepaid eSIMs from Vodafone or O2 provide good options, but for most tourists, Mobimatter’s eSIM offers the best combination of reliability, speed, and convenience. It supports easy activation via QR code, seamless connectivity, and dual SIM functionality, making it ideal for travelers who want hassle-free mobile data throughout Germany without worrying about roaming charges or physical SIM cards.
MobiMatter’s Pick - Germany 20 GB
3. What should I look for when comparing different travel eSIMs for Germany?
When comparing eSIMs for Germany, focus on network coverage, speed, and data validity. Choose an eSIM that connects to major networks like Telekom or Vodafone for strong nationwide reception. Check if it supports 5G connectivity in major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt. Compare data allowances—ranging from 3GB to unlimited—and confirm whether the plan includes calls and SMS or is data-only. Always review activation policies, especially when validity starts, and whether the provider offers customer support in case of technical issues. Opt for prepaid plans to avoid extra charges after use.
4. Do I need to provide any documents like a passport to buy a travel eSIM for Germany?
No passport or ID is required when purchasing a Germany travel eSIM online. Global eSIM providers such as Mobimatter and Airalo only need your email and payment information. You’ll receive your QR code instantly after purchase. However, if you decide to buy directly from a local German carrier like Telekom or Vodafone in-store, you may need to show an ID due to local telecom registration rules. Buying online before your trip is faster, requires no documents, and ensures you have internet access immediately upon landing in Germany.
5. Can I buy an eSIM for Germany in advance or should I wait until I arrive?
You can and should buy your Germany eSIM before you travel. Most eSIMs can be installed ahead of time but only activated once you reach Germany, ensuring your data validity starts at the right moment. Purchasing early allows you to connect instantly upon landing—perfect for using maps, ride apps, or translation tools. While local options are available at airports or telecom stores, online eSIMs are generally more affordable and flexible. Make sure you install but don’t activate your plan until arrival, unless the provider clearly states otherwise.
6. How do I install and activate my international eSIM for Germany?
After purchasing your eSIM, you’ll receive a QR code via email. Connect your phone to Wi-Fi, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM (iPhone) or Network & SIM Manager (Android), and scan the QR code. The eSIM profile will download automatically. Once you land in Germany, it connects to a local network like Telekom or O2. Some providers also include a manual activation code if scanning doesn’t work. Always ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible. The setup process takes just a few minutes and doesn’t require visiting a physical store.
7. Should I activate my travel eSIM before I leave or when I arrive in Germany?
It’s best to activate your Germany eSIM once you arrive to make sure your data validity starts on the correct day. You can install the eSIM profile before departure but keep it inactive until you reach Germany. Once there, open your mobile data settings and enable the eSIM for immediate connection. Some plans activate upon scanning the QR code, while others start only after first network use. Always check your provider’s instructions. Activating on arrival ensures you don’t lose any travel days from your plan’s duration.
8. How do I activate my Germany eSIM using a QR code?
Activating your Germany eSIM via QR code is simple. First, ensure you have Wi-Fi access. Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM (on iPhone) or SIM Manager > Add eSIM (on Android). Choose “Use QR Code,” then scan the code provided by your eSIM vendor. The eSIM profile installs automatically and connects to a German network such as Telekom or Vodafone. You can rename it (e.g., “Germany Travel”) and set it as your data line. The whole process typically takes under five minutes and requires no physical SIM swapping.
9. What if I can't scan the QR code for my Germany eSIM? Is there a manual installation method?
Yes, if you can’t scan the QR code, you can install your eSIM manually. Most eSIM providers include an activation code (SM-DP+ address and activation key) in the confirmation email. On iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM > Enter Details Manually and type in the information. On Android, use Network & Internet > SIM Manager > Add eSIM and input the same codes. Make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi during the process. If any issue arises, contact your eSIM provider’s support team for assistance or a reissued code.
10. How do I switch between my primary SIM and my travel eSIM on my phone in Germany?
You can easily manage both SIMs while in Germany. On iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Default Line and select which SIM you want for calls, texts, and data. On Android, open Network & SIM Manager to switch between your home SIM and travel eSIM. This flexibility allows you to use your home number for messages or calls and your Germany eSIM for local data. To avoid confusion, label your SIMs (e.g., “Home” and “Germany”). Always ensure data roaming is off for your primary SIM to prevent unwanted international charges.
11. How do I make sure I am using the Germany eSIM for data and not my home plan to avoid roaming charges?
To ensure you’re using your Germany eSIM for data, set it as your default data line. On iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Default Line and select your Germany eSIM. Then disable “Data Roaming” for your primary SIM. On Android, open Network & Internet > SIM Manager and choose the eSIM for mobile data. You can also turn off your home SIM’s data entirely during your trip. This setup ensures all your online activities—maps, browsing, and streaming—use your local German plan instead of your international roaming package.
12. What is a travel eSIM and how does it work for international trips to Germany?
A travel eSIM is a digital SIM card that lets you connect to local mobile networks without a physical SIM swap. For Germany, it provides access to top networks like Telekom, Vodafone, and O2 once activated. You purchase the plan online, receive a QR code, and install it in minutes. When you land in Germany, your phone automatically connects to a local carrier. Travel eSIMs are prepaid, so there are no surprise roaming bills, and they allow you to keep your original SIM active for calls while using local data at affordable rates.
13. Why should I use an eSIM for Germany travel instead of my home carrier's roaming plan?
Using a travel eSIM for Germany is far more affordable and convenient than relying on your home carrier’s roaming plan. Most international roaming rates cost around €8–€12 per day, while Germany eSIMs offer several gigabytes of data for a similar one-time fee. You can choose a plan that fits your travel duration, connect instantly upon arrival, and avoid unexpected charges. eSIMs also provide better flexibility, letting you switch networks or plans easily. Plus, you can keep your primary SIM active for messages or banking verification while using local data through the eSIM.
14. Is an eSIM cheaper than international roaming when visiting Germany?
Yes. eSIMs are much cheaper than international roaming when travelling to Germany. While roaming plans often charge per day, eSIMs offer prepaid data packages starting around €5–€25, depending on data allowance and validity. Providers like Mobimatter or Airalo give you full control over spending, with no surprise fees. You only pay for the data you use, and there are no contracts involved. Roaming, on the other hand, can quickly add up, especially on longer trips. By using a local or regional eSIM, travellers save up to 70–80% on mobile connectivity costs.
15. What's the difference between a Germany travel eSIM and a local physical SIM card?
A travel eSIM is digital and activates instantly, while a physical SIM requires visiting a store and inserting a chip. Both offer mobile data, but eSIMs are faster and more convenient, especially for tourists. Germany travel eSIMs connect to local networks like Telekom or Vodafone without any paperwork. Physical SIMs, though sometimes cheaper for long-term use, often require ID verification under German telecom laws. eSIMs suit short-term travellers and business visitors who value convenience, whereas physical SIMs are better for residents or those staying for extended periods.
16. Can I use a Germany eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
Yes, most modern smartphones support Dual SIM functionality, which allows you to use a Germany eSIM and your regular SIM card simultaneously. This is especially useful for travellers who wish to keep their home number active for OTPs or emergency calls while using the Germany eSIM for local data. You can set the Germany eSIM as your primary data line in your mobile settings and continue receiving calls or messages on your original SIM. Just ensure your phone is unlocked and supports Dual SIM (nano SIM + eSIM) before travelling to Germany.
17. Will I get a new phone number with a Germany travel eSIM?
It depends on the eSIM plan you choose. Most travel eSIMs for Germany are data-only, which means they don’t provide a local phone number. These eSIMs are ideal for internet browsing, navigation, and using apps like WhatsApp or Skype for calls and messages. However, if you require a German number for calls or SMS, some providers such as Telekom or Vodafone offer eSIM plans with a local number. Always check the eSIM plan details before purchase to ensure it meets your communication needs.
18. Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a Germany eSIM for data?
Yes, you can still receive calls and texts on your primary SIM while using a Germany eSIM for data, as long as your device supports Dual SIM functionality. This allows you to stay connected with contacts from your home country without incurring roaming data costs. Simply set your Germany eSIM as the preferred data line and keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS. Just be cautious—receiving calls on your original SIM may still incur international roaming charges depending on your carrier’s policy.
19. Do Germany travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data-only?
Most Germany travel eSIMs are data-only and do not include traditional call or SMS services. These eSIMs are designed for tourists and business travellers who primarily need reliable mobile data for internet access, maps, and messaging apps. However, if you require voice and SMS functionality, some local providers offer prepaid eSIM plans that include call minutes and text allowances. Data-only eSIMs remain the most affordable and convenient option for short-term stays, as you can easily make calls via apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Viber using data.
20. How much data will I need for my trip to Germany?
The amount of data you need in Germany depends on your travel habits. On average, most travellers use between 3GB and 10GB per week for navigation, browsing, streaming, and social media. Light users who rely mainly on messaging apps may only need around 2GB for a week. However, if you stream videos, use Google Maps often, or work remotely, a 10GB–15GB plan is recommended. Many eSIM providers offer flexible top-ups, so you can easily add more data if required during your stay in Germany.
21. Is my phone unlocked and compatible with Germany eSIMs?
Before buying a Germany eSIM, make sure your phone is both eSIM-compatible and unlocked. Most recent iPhones (XR and newer), Samsung Galaxy (S20 and newer), Google Pixel, and high-end Huawei devices support eSIM technology. You can check compatibility in your phone’s settings under “Mobile/Cellular Plans.” If your device was purchased through a carrier, ensure it’s unlocked, or the eSIM won’t activate. MobiMatter has an eSIM compatibility guide on their websites, so you can confirm before purchasing your Germany eSIM plan.
22. What is an eSIM card and how does it work in Germany?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card that’s built into your phone. It allows you to download and activate a mobile plan digitally without inserting a physical card. In Germany, you can buy eSIM plans from global providers or local carriers like Telekom, Vodafone, and O2. Once activated, your eSIM connects you to the local network instantly, giving you access to high-speed 4G or 5G data. It’s ideal for travellers who want seamless connectivity without visiting a SIM store.
23. How to activate eSIM on iPhone in Germany?
To activate an eSIM on your iPhone in Germany, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM. Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider or enter the activation code manually if required. Ensure you are connected to Wi-Fi during setup. Once added, label your new eSIM (e.g., “Germany Travel”) and select it as your data line. Within a few minutes, your iPhone will connect to the local network. This process eliminates the need for a physical SIM and is quick, secure, and travel-friendly.
24. How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another iPhone in Germany?
To transfer your eSIM from one iPhone to another while in Germany, make sure both devices are connected to Wi-Fi and signed into the same Apple ID. On your new iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM > Transfer from Nearby iPhone. Follow the prompts on both devices to move your plan securely. Some eSIM providers may require you to request a new QR code instead, depending on their policy. Always back up your data and deactivate the old eSIM once the transfer is complete.
25. Which smartphones are compatible with eSIM in Germany?
Most modern smartphones released from 2018 onwards support eSIM functionality. This includes iPhone XR and later, Google Pixel 4 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 series and later, as well as Motorola Edge and Huawei P40 devices. In Germany, local carriers and travel eSIM providers fully support these devices on major networks like Telekom, Vodafone, and O2. Before purchasing, check your phone’s specifications or visit your provider’s compatibility page to ensure it supports eSIM technology and is not carrier-locked to your home network.
26. How can I move my eSIM from an iPhone to an Android device in Germany?
To move your eSIM from an iPhone to an Android phone in Germany, you’ll need to delete the eSIM profile from your iPhone first and then reactivate it on your Android device using the provider’s QR code or activation details. Cross-platform transfers typically require reinstallation rather than direct migration. Contact your eSIM provider’s customer support if you need a new QR code or face activation issues. Always ensure both devices are unlocked and connected to Wi-Fi before starting the setup process.
27. What’s the process to remove an eSIM from an iPhone in Germany?
Removing an eSIM from your iPhone in Germany is simple. Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Select your eSIM plan > Delete eSIM. Confirm your choice, and the plan will be permanently removed from your device. This step is often required before switching to a new eSIM or transferring your plan to another phone. If you might use the same eSIM again, ensure you have the QR code saved or request a new one from your provider before deleting it from your iPhone.
28. How to set up eSIM on iPhone while traveling to Germany?
To set up your eSIM while travelling to Germany, ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection and your QR code or activation code ready. Open Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM and scan the QR code provided by your travel eSIM provider. Once installed, select it as your primary data plan under Mobile Data options. You can also toggle between your home and Germany eSIM plans as needed. Activation takes just a few minutes, and once done, you’ll instantly connect to a local German network.
29. How to activate an eSIM on your iPhone when you're in Germany?
When you arrive in Germany, connect to Wi-Fi, then go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM > Use QR Code on your iPhone. Scan the QR code sent by your eSIM provider or enter the activation details manually. Once the plan is installed, label it as “Germany eSIM” and choose it for mobile data. Your iPhone will automatically detect the local network and connect within a few moments. Restart your phone if required for the activation to complete successfully.
30. Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in Germany?
To check if your phone supports eSIM use in Germany, go to Settings > About > Digital SIM (iPhone) or SIM Manager (Android). If you see an option to add or manage an eSIM, your device is compatible. Popular models like iPhone 11 and newer, Google Pixel 4+, and Samsung Galaxy S20+ are all compatible with Germany’s eSIM networks. Ensure your device is unlocked and supports local network bands (particularly LTE and 5G). Checking compatibility before purchasing ensures smooth activation and connectivity during your trip.