How to Set Up a Vodafone eSIM: A Quick Guide for iPhone and Android
posted 24th February 2026
Switching to a Vodafone eSIM has never been easier — and if you got yours through SIMcredible, you're already saving money before you've even made your first call.
Whether you're upgrading your plan, switching networks, or just want the convenience of going physical-SIM-free, this guide walks you through setting up your Vodafone eSIM on both iPhone and Android in just a few minutes.
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built directly into your phone. Instead of a physical card, your network details are downloaded straight to your device. That means no waiting for a SIM to arrive in the post, no fiddling with tiny trays, and no risk of losing your card down the back of the sofa.
Vodafone eSIMs work just like a regular SIM - calls, texts, data, Wi-Fi calling, roaming - the lot. And because SIMcredible offers discounted Vodafone tariffs with free roaming in 81 countries, you get all of that without the usual price tag.
Before You Start: What You'll Need
- A compatible iPhone or Android handset (see below for supported models)
- Your SIMcredible eSIM QR code or activation details (sent to your email after purchase)
- A working Wi-Fi connection
- A few minutes of your time
Quick check: Make sure your phone is unlocked. If it's locked to another network, you'll need to get it unlocked before you can activate a Vodafone eSIM.
Compatible Devices
iPhone: iPhone XS and later (XS, XS Max, XR, 11 series, 12 series, 13 series, 14 series, 15 series, 16 series)
Android:Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, plus many recent handsets from Motorola, Oppo, and others.
If you're not sure, check your phone settings under About Phone — if you see an "EID" number listed, your device supports eSIM.
Looking for your next smartphone? Check out our latest offers.
How to Set Up Your Vodafone eSIM on iPhone
- Go to Settings > Mobile Service (or Cellular depending on your iOS version)
- Tap Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan
- Choose Use QR Code and scan the QR code from your SIMcredible confirmation email
- Tap Continue when prompted, then Add Mobile Plan
- Follow the on-screen steps to set your new Vodafone eSIM as your primary or secondary line
- When asked, choose your preferred line for data — select your new Vodafone eSIM
- Give your phone a moment to activate, then restart it
That's it. You should see Vodafone appear in your signal bar within a few minutes.
Pro tip for Wi-Fi calling: Once your eSIM is active, head to Settings > Mobile Service > your Vodafone plan > Wi-Fi Calling and switch it on. This is especially useful if your home or office has a patchy signal — calls and texts will route over your broadband instead.
How to Set Up Your Vodafone eSIM on Android
The exact steps vary slightly by manufacturer, but the process is broadly the same across Samsung, Google Pixel, and others.
Google Pixel:
- Open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs
- Tap the + icon to add a new SIM
- Select Download a SIM instead?
- Scan your QR code from your SIMcredible email
- Follow the prompts and tap Activate when ready
Samsung Galaxy:
- Open Settings > Connections > SIM card manager
- Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan
- Scan your QR code
- Tap Confirm and let the download complete
- Set the eSIM as your preferred data SIM when prompted
Once activated, restart your phone and check that Vodafone appears in your status bar.
For Wi-Fi calling on Android:Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Wi-Fi calling(Samsung) or Settings > Network & internet> Calls & SMS > Wi-Fi calling (Pixel) and toggle it on.
Troubleshooting: Common eSIM Issues
QR code not working?Make sure you're scanning it from a different screen or a printed copy — you can't scan a QR code from the same device you're setting it up on. Ask a friend or family member to display it on their phone instead.
eSIM downloaded, but no signal? Give it up to 15 minutes. If it still hasn't connected, try toggling Airplane Mode on and off, or restarting your phone.
"SIM not supported" error? Your phone may be locked to another network. Contact your previous provider to request an unlock - most UK networks are legally required to unlock your phone for free.
Transferred from a physical SIM and lost your number? If you're porting your existing number to SIMcredible, the process can take a couple of hours on the same day. Your SIMcredible confirmation will include your PAC code instructions if needed.
Learn more about PAC codes, and how to keep your number when you switch SIMs
Why Get Your Vodafone eSIM Through SIMcredible?
Plenty of places sell Vodafone SIMs, but here's why people are choosing SIMcredible:
Discounted rates. We access Vodafone's network at wholesale rates and pass the savings on to you. No introductory offers that jump up after three months — just clear, fair pricing in pounds sterling from day one.
Free roaming in 81 countries. Our Vodafone tariffs include up to 25GB of free roaming. Perfect for holidays, business travel, or visiting family abroad.
No credit checks. Pay monthly by debit or credit card. No long contracts, no paperwork, no awkward credit history conversations.
Wi-Fi calling included. Built in on supported phones and plans — great for anyone with weak indoor signal.
Rolling monthly plans. Change your plan or leave whenever you want. No 12 or 24-month lock-ins.
Ready to Get Started?
Getting a Vodafone eSIM from SIMcredible takes minutes. Browse our SIM plans, complete your order, and your eSIM QR code lands in your inbox — ready to scan and activate straight away.
Browse Vodafone SIM plans on SIMcredible →
Got a question? Give us a call on 01234 587007 or use our contact page - we're happy to help you find the right plan.