Bhutan eSIM - Travel Data

An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your phone, tablet, or smartwatch. You activate it by scanning a QR code. No physical card swap needed. Business travellers and frequent flyers use e SIM technology for trips to Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Australia to get local data rates without touching their Singtel, StarHub, or M1 SIM. With an e-sim, your home number stays active on your physical SIM whilst data runs on the HelloRoam eSIM.

To check eSIM support, open Settings then Mobile Data (iPhone) or Settings then Network and Internet (Android) and look for 'Add eSIM' or 'SIM card manager'. Most eSIM compatible phones released after 2018 support eSIM, including iPhone XS and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and above, and Google Pixel 3 and later. You can also dial *#06# to see if an EID (eSIM identifier) appears. Phones purchased directly from Apple, Samsung, or major retailers like StarHub and Singtel are usually network-unlocked.

Installing your HelloRoam eSIM takes three steps: (1) Purchase your plan and receive your QR code by email within minutes. (2) Open Settings, then Mobile Data, then Add eSIM on iPhone, or Settings, then Network and Internet, then Mobile Network on Android. (3) Scan the QR code to complete installation in 2 to 5 minutes. Stay connected to Wi-Fi during setup. Set everything up at home before you travel for the smoothest experience.

eSIM activation usually completes within 2 to 10 minutes depending on network conditions. If it takes longer, try these steps: restart your device, toggle aeroplane mode on and off for 30 seconds, confirm the eSIM profile is set as your active data line, or check that you are in a covered area. HelloRoam activation typically finishes within 90 seconds on a stable Wi-Fi connection.

Yes. Most modern phones support dual SIM, so you keep your home number (Singtel, StarHub, or M1) active on a physical SIM whilst your HelloRoam eSIM runs data at the same time. Set your home SIM as the default for calls and SMS. Set the HelloRoam eSIM as the default for mobile data whilst overseas.

HelloRoam eSIM plans include 5G access where partner networks provide 5G coverage at your destination. Your phone must support the 5G bands used in Bhutan for 5G speeds. If 5G is unavailable in a specific area, your eSIM automatically drops to 4G LTE to keep a reliable connection. Most iPhone 12 and newer models and Samsung Galaxy S21 and above support 5G on HelloRoam.