How to Set Up an eSIM for Georgia
Step-by-step instructions for iPhone, Samsung, and Pixel — from purchase to activation.
Georgia eSIM Travel Guides
> eSIM Setup Guide
In This Guide
Setting up an eSIM for Georgia takes about two minutes. But if you’ve never done it before, those two minutes can feel uncertain.
This guide walks you through the entire process: which phones work, how to install on iPhone and Android, when to activate, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Is Your Phone Compatible?
Phones with eSIM Support
| Brand | Models with eSIM |
|---|---|
| iPhone | XS, XS Max, XR (2018) and all newer • SE 2nd gen (2020)+ • iPhone 15+ are eSIM-only in the US |
| Samsung | Galaxy S20+ • Z Flip/Fold (all) • Note 20+ • A54+ |
| Google Pixel | Pixel 3a and all newer models |
| Other | Motorola Razr (2020+) • Oppo Find X3 Pro+ • Most flagships from 2021+ |
Your Phone Must Be Unlocked
If you bought your phone from a carrier (AT&T, Vodafone, T-Mobile, etc.), it may be locked to that network. Locked phones can’t use eSIMs from other providers. Contact your carrier to confirm before buying.
How to confirm on iPhone: Settings > General > About. Look for “Available SIM” or “Digital SIM.”
How to confirm on Android: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. Look for “Download a SIM” or “Add eSIM.”
Step 1: Buy Your eSIM Plan
Choose your provider and plan
Purchase your Georgia eSIM plan (for example from Roamzi). For a comparison of providers and pricing, see our Best eSIM for Georgia 2026 guide.
Receive your QR code
After purchase, you’ll get a QR code via email (some providers also send it through their app). Keep this email accessible.
When to Buy
24 hours before your flight is ideal. Most plans start counting from activation (connecting to a Georgian network), not from purchase.
Step 2: Install the eSIM Profile (At Home)
Install at Home on WiFi — Not at the Airport
Installing requires downloading a profile from the internet. Your home WiFi is reliable, you’re not stressed, and you have time to troubleshoot if needed. Don’t wait until you land in Tbilisi.
iPhone Instructions
Open Settings > Cellular
(or “Mobile Data” in some regions)
Tap Add eSIM > Use QR Code
Point your camera at the QR code from your email (display on another screen or print it).
Label it “Georgia” or “Travel”
Keep your home number as the default for calls and texts. Do NOT enable the eSIM data yet.
Samsung Instructions
Open Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
Tap Add eSIM, then choose “Scan QR code from service provider.”
Scan the QR code and confirm
Label the eSIM “Georgia” or “Travel.” Don’t set it as your data SIM yet.
Google Pixel Instructions
Open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs
Tap the + icon, choose “Download a SIM instead,” and scan the QR code.
Confirm and keep it disabled
Wait to enable it until you arrive in Georgia.
Step 3: Activate When You Land in Georgia
iPhone
Enable the eSIM line
Settings > Cellular > find your Georgia eSIM > toggle Turn On This Line.
Enable Data Roaming
Toggle Data Roaming to ON. Without this, you won’t connect. Set the Georgia eSIM as your active data line.
Android (Samsung/Pixel)
Enable the Georgia eSIM
Settings > Connections > SIM Manager (Samsung) or Settings > Network > SIMs (Pixel). Set as Mobile data SIM.
Enable Data Roaming and wait
Make sure Data Roaming is on. Wait 10–30 seconds for the network connection. You should see MagtiCom, Silknet, or Cellfie in your status bar.
Step 4: Verify Everything Works
Quick Verification Checklist
- Open a browser and load any webpage — confirm data is working
- Open WhatsApp or another messaging app — send a test message
- Open Google Maps — confirm location and data loading
- Check your data balance in the provider’s app (if available)
If everything loads, you’re done. You’re connected in Georgia.
Troubleshooting
“No Service” or “No Signal”
1. Check Data Roaming — the #1 issue. Make sure it’s ON for the eSIM line.
2. Restart your phone — a simple restart fixes most eSIM issues.
3. Manually select a network — turn off automatic network selection and pick MagtiCom, Silknet, or Geocell — your eSIM will automatically connect to whichever network has the strongest signal.
4. Wait a minute — sometimes connections take up to 60 seconds after enabling.
“eSIM Not Supported” Error
Your phone may be carrier-locked. Contact your home carrier to confirm it’s unlocked. Also verify your phone model supports eSIM and update to the latest iOS/Android version.
“QR Code Already Used” Error
Most QR codes can only be scanned once. If you’ve already installed the profile, you don’t need to scan again. If you deleted it, contact your provider for a new code.
Connected But No Data
Confirm the Georgia eSIM is set as your active data line (not your home SIM). Check Data Roaming is on. Try toggling Airplane Mode on and off.
Slow Speeds
In Tbilisi, speeds should be strong (avg 140 Mbps). If slow, try manually selecting a different network. In mountain areas, expect reduced speeds. See our Internet & WiFi in Georgia guide for regional details.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Install Before Your Flight
Install at home on WiFi. If anything goes wrong, you have time to contact provider support.
Keep Your Home SIM Active
Dual-SIM means your home number stays active for incoming calls and texts while the Georgia eSIM handles data. No SIM swapping needed.
Screenshot Your QR Code
Save the QR code to your camera roll as a backup. If you can’t access email, the screenshot works.
Pre-Enable Data Roaming
After installing at home, go into settings and enable Data Roaming on the eSIM line. When you land, just toggle the line on — it’ll connect automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an eSIM without WiFi?
You need an internet connection to download the profile. WiFi is recommended, though mobile data from your existing SIM works too.
When should I activate the eSIM?
Activate when your plane lands in Georgia. Most plans start counting data from the moment you first connect to a Georgian network.
Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Yes. Most modern phones support dual SIM — one physical and one eSIM running simultaneously.
What happens if I run out of data?
Some providers like Roamzi let you top up on their app/website. Already have a Roamzi eSIM? You can choose to top up here.
Can I share my eSIM data as a hotspot?
Most providers allow hotspot/tethering. Check your specific provider in our Best eSIM for Georgia guide.
Will my eSIM work in Armenia or Azerbaijan too?
Only with a regional plan. Single-country Georgia plans won’t work across borders.
I’m arriving at Kutaisi — should I still get an eSIM?
Kutaisi airport sometimes offers free tourist SIMs, but availability, queues, and plan limits vary. Many travellers still install an eSIM before arrival so they’re connected immediately and don’t rely on airport availability.
Ready to Get Connected?
Buy a Georgia eSIM before your flight, install at home, and be online the moment you land.
Get a Georgia eSIM from Roamzi