The eSIM facility has changed how travelers can stay connected when traveling in India. eSIMs offer instant connectivity, and you can instantly activate your SIM. Read more to find out the eSIM options in India!
(Picture Credit: Gizbot)
Why Choose an eSIM in India?
- You don’t need to swap physical SIMs. After activating remotely, you can keep your home SIM for calls.
- You can instantly activate your eSIM, and it is functional as soon as you land.
- eSIM offers flexible plans, where you can choose data only or voice+data.
- Unlike SIMs, you don’t need paperwork with International eSIMs as they skip the KYC process.
Top International eSIM Providers for India
Saily
Saily works on Jio’s network, which supports 3G, 4G, and 5G. It has strong security features, and you don’t need an Indian phone number as it provides high connectivity data.
FlexiRoam
FlexiRoam is an excellent eSIM option. FlexiRoam allows you to share data as a group upon buying the same fixed plan as a group. You can buy a Fixed plan or an Unlimited plan.
GigSky
GigSky is a US-based eSIM provider that provides 100 MB of free data to test your eSIM without an obligation to pay for more once you have used it. GigSky also offers data plans for flights and cruises, which are useful if you need to connect while traveling.
How to Activate International eSIMs
(Picture Credit: Cyber Management Alliance)
- Buy the eSIM online from the particular website or app.
- Scan QR code or install via app.
- Activate your e-SIM instantly with no KYC process or any other paperwork.
Indian Telecom eSIMs (Jio, Airtel, Vi)
Jio
Jio offers both prepaid and postpaid eSIMs, however, the activation requires a KYC process, so you will need your passport, visa, and photo. It has great network connectivity in both urban and rural areas.
Airtel
Airtel eSIM is available for both postpaid and prepaid users. For activation, you are required to do the KYC process. After a few hours, your eSIM will get activated. Airtel provides great network coverage, and you can also make international calls if needed.
Vi
Vi eSIM is available for Vi postpaid users, where you will need to do the KYC process for activation. The network connectivity is strong in cities but weak in rural areas.
How to Activate Indian Telecom eSIMs
- Visit the retail store/airport kiosk with your passport and visa.
- Complete KYC process.
- Receive the QR code by email/SMS.
- Scan and your eSIM will be activated within a few hours.
Tips for Foreigners
- Ensure your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked from your phone carrier.
- Always choose a plan that matches your usage and streaming data.
- For banking OTPs or home country calls, always keep your home SIM active and use the dual-SIM functionality.
Read Best mobile networks in India for foreigners.
eSIMs offer foreign travelers a seamless and flexible way to stay connected while traveling in India. At India Someday, we plan customized trips to India for you based on your interests and requirements. Contact us and we will help you plan your perfect trip to India.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, both Jio and Airtel offer eSIM options for foreign tourists in India. You will typically need to visit one of their authorized stores with your passport, visa, a passport-sized photograph, and the eSIM-compatible device.
An eSIM allows you to have a local Indian mobile number without physically inserting a SIM card, which is convenient if you want to keep your home country SIM active.
Currently, Jio and Airtel are the primary mobile networks offering eSIM services to tourists. They have various prepaid plans that can be activated on an eSIM.
About Rabhya Maini
Rabhya Maini is a writer at India Someday. Her passions are reading, writing, and exploring different parts of India. She loves to capture the beauty of India through photos and words.
helping you travel your way
Everything you need to know about India is here We have tried writing about everything you may need help with for your trip to India, If you need help in planning a trip to India Get in touch with us to to plan your trip of a life time.
