Install eSIM on Google Pixel 9 / 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL / 9a
Compatibility is conditional: confirm an EID, an Add eSIM option, and an unlocked phone before purchase. You need your QR code (emailed after purchase) and an internet connection to scan it.
Who this guide covers
This guide applies to the named model family, but eSIM menus and carrier support can vary by country, model number, and firmware.
Check before you buy
- An EID is present in About or About phone
- The phone is carrier unlocked
- An Add eSIM option is visible in cellular or SIM settings
Exact settings path
Open your phone's cellular or SIM settings and choose Add eSIM
- 1
Check the phone
Go to Settings → About phone and confirm that an EID is present. The exact model and carrier version still matter.
- 2
Add the eSIM
Open Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM, then choose the QR-code option while connected to Wi-Fi.
- 3
Use it abroad
When you arrive, choose the travel eSIM for mobile data and disable automatic switching to your Canadian line.
Check compatibility first
Confirm that your phone is unlocked, has an EID, and shows an Add eSIM option. Support can vary by model number, country, and carrier firmware.
Carrier and region: Carrier locks and regional firmware can prevent eSIM use even when a model family commonly supports it. Verify the handset itself.
Before you fly
Install the plan over Wi-Fi before departure, label it with the destination, and keep your QR email accessible until you are connected.
Install vs. activate: Install on Wi-Fi before departure, then enable the travel line and select it for data after arrival. Installation and network activation are separate steps.
Device details cross-check: Google Pixel: add a SIM or eSIM. Regional model and carrier support can still differ.
Home line and dual SIM
Keep your Canadian line for calls or SMS if needed, set the travel eSIM as the data line, and disable data roaming on the Canadian line. 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
Set the travel eSIM as your mobile-data line when you arrive and turn off data roaming on your Canadian line.
Troubleshooting this Google Pixel 9 / 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL / 9a guide
The eSIM does not connect
Confirm the travel line is enabled, selected for data, and configured for any required roaming; then toggle Airplane Mode or restart.
There is no Add eSIM option
Check the exact model number, install pending software updates, and confirm that the phone is unlocked. Regional and carrier variants can differ.
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.
Google Pixel 9 / 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL / 9a eSIM FAQs
What must I check before buying?
Confirm an EID, an Add eSIM option, and No SIM restrictions or equivalent unlocked status on the exact phone.
Can I keep my Canadian line active?
Usually yes, if the phone supports dual SIM. Use the travel eSIM for data and review your Canadian carrier's roaming settings.
More eSIM setup guides
Other devices
Need instructions for a different phone? See our guides for: