Install eSIM on iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
Compatible when the exact phone is unlocked, has an EID, and offers Add eSIM. A supported model can still fail setup if it remains carrier locked. You need your QR code (emailed after purchase) and an internet connection to scan it.
Who this guide covers
Covers iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max, including common Canadian and US configurations.
Check before you buy
- Settings > General > About > EID is present
- Carrier Lock says No SIM restrictions
- Settings > Cellular offers Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan
Exact settings path
Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan)
- 1
Add Cellular Plan
Go to Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan. Scan your QR code when the camera appears. Tap 'Add Cellular Plan' when the plan details show.
- 2
Name the plan
Give it a label like 'Travel' or your destination name. This helps you find it later in Settings.
- 3
Activate abroad
When you land, follow the specific plan terms, then go to Settings → Cellular. Select your travel eSIM and turn on 'Turn On This Line' or choose it for Cellular Data when ready.
Check compatibility first
Confirm an EID appears in Settings > General > About and that Carrier Lock shows No SIM restrictions. An iPhone 12 can store a travel eSIM alongside a Canadian physical SIM or eSIM.
Carrier and region: Canadian and US iPhone 12 models commonly support dual SIM, but the carrier lock status matters more than the model label. Refurbished or financed devices may still be locked.
Before you fly
Install before leaving Canada while you have Wi-Fi. Give the plan a destination label and keep the QR email accessible in case you need to review the setup instructions.
Install vs. activate: Install on Wi-Fi before leaving Canada, then follow the specific plan terms for validity and choose Voyaio as the data line when you are ready. This keeps installation separate from travel use without assuming a universal activation trigger.
Device details cross-check: Apple: unlock and eSIM checks. Regional model and carrier support can still differ.
Home line and dual SIM
Keep your Canadian physical SIM or eSIM available for SMS, and select Voyaio under Cellular Data after landing. Turn off data roaming on the Canadian line and leave automatic data switching disabled. Keeping the Canadian line enabled can still incur your carrier's roaming or usage charges, especially for calls and SMS; check your carrier's terms before travel.
When you arrive
When you land, choose the travel eSIM under Cellular Data and keep data roaming disabled on your Canadian line. You can still receive important SMS on the primary line.
Troubleshooting this iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max guide
Add Cellular Plan is missing
Check for an EID, update iOS, and verify Carrier Lock. If the phone is locked, contact the original carrier before purchasing a travel eSIM.
Calls work but data does not
Set Voyaio as Cellular Data, confirm the line is turned on, and check the plan's roaming instruction before toggling Airplane Mode.
If the phone shows no service, confirm the travel plan is enabled, mobile data is assigned to that line, and data roaming is enabled for the travel eSIM when the provider requires it. Then toggle airplane mode or restart the phone.
iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max eSIM FAQs
Can an iPhone 12 use Voyaio with a Canadian SIM inserted?
Usually yes. The Canadian line can remain available while Voyaio handles travel data, provided the phone is unlocked.
Should I remove my Canadian SIM?
No. Keep it installed if you need your usual number or verification texts; simply disable its data roaming.
More eSIM setup guides
Other devices
Need instructions for a different phone? See our guides for: