Use an eSIM while travelling internationally with your iPad
Find out about the options and benefits of using an eSIM while travelling abroad with your iPad.
Benefits of travelling with eSIM
An eSIM is more secure than a physical SIM because it can’t be removed if your iPad is lost or stolen.
With eSIM, you don't need to obtain, carry or swap physical SIM cards (which can also be lost), or wait for them to arrive by post.
You can store 8 or more eSIMs and swap which of your stored eSIMs are active, simply by changing your selections in Settings. This might be helpful if you travel regularly to the same places.
What you’ll need
A wireless carrier or worldwide service provider that supports eSIM
An iPad that supports eSIM:
iPad Pro 13-inch (M4, M5) Wi-Fi + Cellular*
iPad Pro 11-inch (M4, M5) Wi-Fi + Cellular*
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st to 4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd to 6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
iPad Air 13-inch (M2, M3, M4) Wi-Fi + Cellular*
iPad Air 11-inch (M2, M3, M4) Wi-Fi + Cellular*
iPad Air (3rd to 5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
iPad (A16) Wi-Fi + Cellular*
iPad (7th to 10th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi + Cellular*
iPad mini (5th and 6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
*iPad (A16) Wi-Fi + Cellular models and later, iPad Pro (M4) Wi-Fi + Cellular models and later, iPad Air (M2) Wi-Fi + Cellular models and later, and iPad mini (A17 Pro) Wi-Fi + Cellular models and later are activated with an eSIM and do not have a physical SIM card.
Find out which iPad model you have
Find out how to set up an eSIM on iPad
Activating a mobile data plan with eSIM in China mainland is only available with iPad models that support eSIM in China mainland. Contact China Unicom for more details.
Options for using an eSIM while travelling internationally
If you are using an eSIM while travelling, either roam with your existing carrier or purchase a data plan from a local carrier or worldwide service provider.
Roam internationally with your existing provider
Before you travel, check if your service provider includes international roaming on selected data plans without additional fees. Some countries and regions might be included in your home plan.
Alternatively, your carrier might offer affordable travel passes or plans that you can purchase ahead of time to use at your destination.
International roaming with an eSIM works the same way as roaming with a physical SIM.
To find out more, contact your service provider.
Purchase a data plan from a local carrier or worldwide service provider
Many carriers offer data plan options that you can purchase directly on your iPad while travelling.
Service providers also offer pre-paid data plan options you can purchase from the providers’ websites or apps before you arrive, or in person after arrival, through a service provider kiosk at the airport, service provider store or other location. Depending on local regulations, you might need to show identification (like your passport) to purchase. Check with individual service providers for details.
In addition to purchasing a prepaid eSIM plan, you might want to get a postpaid account if you plan to be in another place for an extended time. Service providers around the world that support eSIM offer post-paid plans. Depending on the country or region, you may need to provide proof of local residency, an established local bank account or credit card.
Find wireless networkscarriers and worldwide providers that offer eSIM service on iPad.