Learn about the options and benefits of using eSIM while traveling abroad with your iPad.
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 mail.
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.
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 through 4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd through 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 through 5th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular
iPad (A16) Wi-Fi + Cellular*
iPad (7th through 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
Learn how to set up eSIM on iPad
Activating a cellular 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.
If you are using an eSIM while traveling, either roam with your existing carrier or purchase a data plan from a local carrier or worldwide service provider.
Before you travel, check if your carrier includes international roaming on select 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 as roaming with a physical SIM.
To learn more, contact your carrier.
Many carriers offer data plan options that you can purchase directly on your iPad while traveling.
Carriers also offer prepaid data plan options that you can purchase from the carriers' websites or apps before you arrive, or in person after arrival, through a carrier kiosk at the airport, carrier store, or other location. Depending on local regulations, you might need to show identification (like your passport) to purchase. Check with individual carriers 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. Carriers around the world that support eSIM offer postpaid plans. Depending on the country or region, you might need proof of local residency, an established local bank account, or credit card.
Find wireless carriers and worldwide service providers that offer eSIM service on iPad.