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Yevhenii Kuznietsov
Published on
Jun 25 2024
As mobile technology evolves, eSIM (embedded SIM) is quickly becoming the new standard — especially for those who want a flexible and modern way to stay connected. In Pakistan, eSIM technology is now supported by major telecom operators, offering a seamless alternative to the traditional physical SIM card.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about eSIM activation in Pakistan — including supported devices, how to get your QR code, and how to set it up on your iPhone, Android phone, or Samsung Galaxy Flip.
An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that is built into your device. It allows you to activate a mobile plan without inserting a physical SIM card. With a digital SIM embedded in your phone, you can have multiple phone numbers, switch carriers easily, and even add multiple eSIM accounts on one device.
Multiple Numbers, One Device: With an eSIM-enabled device, you can use multiple phone numbers — ideal for separating personal and work lines, or for travelers needing a local number.
Easy Switching Between Carriers: Switching between networks like Jazz, Zong, Ufone, or Telenor is faster, with no need to visit a store or wait for a new SIM to arrive.
Less Wear and Tear: No SIM slot use means fewer moving parts, reducing potential damage to your device from frequent SIM changes.
Great for Travelers and Expats: Activate local eSIM plans on arrival without removing your existing SIM, which is perfect for international travelers and digital nomads in Pakistan.
Supports Multiple eSIM Profiles: Many phones allow you to add multiple eSIM accounts and easily switch between them through settings — great for users with diverse data plan needs.
Yes, eSIM in Pakistan is now widely available and supported by all major telecom operators, offering convenience, flexibility, and a modern alternative to the traditional physical SIM card.
The following networks currently support eSIM activation:
Jazz was one of the first operators in Pakistan to introduce eSIM support. It offers both prepaid and postpaid eSIM plans, and the activation process is smooth through its Jazz Business Centers. You can also port your existing number to an eSIM.
Zong supports eSIM for its postpaid users and select prepaid plans. You can get your eSIM from any Zong Service Center, where biometric verification is required. Zong’s 4G network is known for high-speed mobile data, especially in urban areas.
Telenor offers eSIM solutions for postpaid users, with gradual rollout across major cities. Their customer support staffhelps with the QR setup and registration process. It's a good option for those seeking reliable voice and data coverage in both cities and rural areas.
Ufone supports eSIM services through its Service Centers for both prepaid and postpaid users. Ufone’s coverage is expanding and supports eSIM-compatible handsets, especially for users in metropolitan areas like Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.
These telecom providers offer eSIM plans that mirror their traditional SIM services. You can activate a local phone number, keep all your current services, and choose from various data plans — with the added convenience of a digital SIM.
In addition to local providers, several international eSIM providers also offer services that work in Pakistan — especially useful for tourists, expats, digital nomads, or those wanting to stay connected across multiple countries.
At Global Yo, we make staying connected in Pakistan easy — no local store visits or biometric verification required. Simply purchase your eSIM plan online, receive your QR code, and activate it in minutes on your eSIM-enabled device.
Instant access to mobile data in Pakistan
No in-person registration — activate from anywhere
Add or switch multiple eSIM profiles easily
Ideal for travelers, remote workers, and digital nomads
Backed by global networks for reliable coverage
Whether you’re in a major city or off the beaten path, Global Yo helps you stay connected — simply, quickly, and without borders.
Airalo – Offers regional and global plans, with competitive pricing
Holafly – Known for unlimited data options
Nomad – Good for flexible top-ups and multi-country trips
Ubigi – Ideal for travelers needing connectivity across borders
To get a new eSIM, follow these steps:
Visit the nearest franchise or customer service center of your preferred mobile network.
Bring your CNIC (for locals) or passport (for foreigners) for biometric verification — this is required prior to eSIM activation for security reasons.
Choose your mobile plan and request eSIM registration.
You'll receive a QR code provided by the operator, which you'll scan to install the eSIM profile on your device.
Important: If you're switching from a physical SIM to an eSIM, make sure your current services work and that you’ve completed biometric verification to avoid blocking.
Before getting an eSIM, make sure you have an eSIM-enabled handset. You can use the handset supported section on most telecom websites to check eSIM enabled handsets.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip / Fold
Samsung Galaxy S20 series and above
Google Pixel 3 and newer
New upcoming phones from leading handset companies
iPhone XS, XS Max, iPhone XR
iPhone 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 / 15 series
Works best on an unlocked iPhone
Don’t forget: The device must have its eSIM IMEI registered with PTA and cleared from phone tax if imported.
Once you’ve received your eSIM QR code, here’s how to set it up:
Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Cellular Plan
Your camera automatically opens — scan the QR code provided by your carrier
Tap Add Cellular Plan
Select eSIM as your default line for mobile data, calls, or both
Restart your phone if prompted
Open Settings > Connections > SIM card manager
Tap Add Mobile Plan
Choose Add using QR code
Scan the QR code you received
Confirm to activate the eSIM profile
You can switch between physical and digital SIM anytime under SIM settings.
Yes — you can transfer your number from a physical SIM to an eSIM while keeping all my current services.
Yes! Most modern smartphones allow you to add multiple eSIM accounts and switch between them.
You’ll need a new QR code from your provider. The existing QR code can typically only be used once.
Yes, a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) is required during eSIM activation.
Some networks may charge a small eSIM fee, especially if you're converting from a physical SIM. Kindly pay attention to the latest charges from your provider.
You can top up your data or mobile number the same way you would with a physical SIM.
Making the switch to an eSIM in Pakistan is a forward-thinking choice for tech-savvy users, frequent travelers, and anyone who values convenience and flexibility in their mobile plan. With growing support from all major telecom operators, activating a digital SIM card is easier than ever.
Whether you’re using an iPhone XS Max, Google Pixel, or a Samsung Galaxy Flip, the setup process is smooth, and the benefits are clear — no more handling physical SIM cards or visiting stores every time you change numbers or plans.
With just a simple QR code, your eSIM profile is up and running, giving you access to mobile data, voice, and local phone numbers — all from the palm of your hand. It's a modern solution for staying connected, no matter where you are in Pakistan.
Yevhenii Kuznietsov
[email protected]Yevhenii Kuznietsov blends journalism with a passion for travel tech. He explores eSIM's impact on communication and travel, offering expert interviews and gadget reviews. Outside of writing, Yevhenii is a hiking enthusiast and drone hobbyist, capturing unique travel vistas.
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