Buying an eSIM online in India has never been easier, especially with Vi making the entire process quick, secure, and completely digital. Whether you’re switching from a physical SIM for convenience, freeing up your device’s SIM slot, or simply looking for a faster way to stay connected, an eSIM gives you all the benefits of your regular SIM without the hassle of handling a physical card. With a compatible smartphone and a stable Wi-Fi connection, you can activate your Vi eSIM in just a few steps using the Vi App or SMS. Below is everything you need to know before getting an eSIM, along with step-by-step guides for Android and iPhone users.

What You Need to Know Before Getting an eSIM

Before you begin the activation process, ensure you’re fully prepared for a smooth and error-free setup. Here are the key things to keep in mind:

1. Your Device Must Support eSIM

Only smartphones with built-in eSIM capability can use a Vi eSIM or any eSIM for that matter. Check your device settings to confirm compatibility.

2. Your Email ID Must Be Active and Linked to Your Vi Number

We will be sending the activation QR code and additional instructions to your registered email. An inactive or incorrect email ID will delay activation.

3. You Need the 32-Digit EID Number

Your EID (Embedded Identity Document) is essential for generating your eSIM profile. You can find it in device settings or by dialling *#06#.

IMPORTANT: An incorrect EID will lead to activation failure, so double-check before submitting.

4. Stable Wi-Fi is Mandatory

Downloading an eSIM profile requires a strong Wi-Fi connection. Poor connectivity may interrupt the download process.

5. Regional Restrictions Apply

Vi eSIM is currently not available in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, Northeast, and Assam.

Once you’ve checked these essentials, you can proceed with activation via the Vi App or SMS.

How to Get an eSIM in Android

Android users (prepaid or postpaid) can request and activate a Vi eSIM either through the Vi App (postpaid only) or via SMS.

Via Vi App (Postpaid Only)

Step 1: Begin Your Request

Login to the Vi App → Help → Raise a Service Request → Activate eSIM.

Step 2: Select Device Type & Enter EID

Choose the same device or another device, then enter your 32-digit EID. Double-check your EID as an incorrect entry will fail the activation.

Step 3: Verify OTP

Enter the OTP sent to your registered Vi number.

Step 4: Download Profile

After 15 minutes, download your eSIM from the device notification or scan the QR sent to your registered email. Ensure you're connected to strong Wi-Fi. Activate the eSIM profile → Remove physical SIM → Restart device.

Via SMS (Prepaid & Postpaid)

Step 1: Send Request SMS

Send the SMS in this format: eSIM <EID> 2 <Email ID> (Use 2 for Android devices.)

Step 2: Confirm via SMS

Reply with ESIMY to 199.

Step 3: Automated Verification Call

Answer the verification call (from a number starting with 012471…) and press 1 to provide consent.

Step 4: Download eSIM Profile

You’ll receive the QR code via email. Navigate to Add eSIM/Download eSIM in your phone settings and scan the QR to install the profile.

How to Get an eSIM in an iPhone

iPhone users can follow a similar process, with a device-type selection step during activation.

Via Vi App (Postpaid Only)

Step 1: Login → Help → Raise a Service Request → Activate eSIM.

Step 2: Select iOS and enter the 32-digit EID.

Step 3: Verify the OTP.

Step 4: Download the profile via device notification or QR code via email after 15 minutes. Ensure you’re on strong Wi-Fi and restart your device after activation.

Via SMS (Prepaid & Postpaid)

Step 1: Send SMS in this format: eSIM <EID> 1 <Email ID> (Use 1 for iOS devices.)

Step 2: Reply ESIMY to 199 for confirmation.

Step 3: Accept the automated verification call and press 1.

Step 4: Scan the QR received in your email to download and activate the profile.

Steps to Get a Vi eSIM in India (Vi App) (for postpaid only)

All Vi users are eligible for esim. Follow a few steps to begin the process of activating an eSIM.

• Step 1: Start Your Request: Open the Vi app > Sign in > Go to Help > Raise a Service Request > Activate eSIM
• Step 2: Add EID & Choose Device: Pick whether you’re activating on the same or a different device. Input the 32-digit EID from device settings. Check EID carefully - incorrect input may fail activation
• Step 3: OTP Verification: Enter the OTP received on your registered Vi number
• Step 4: Get eSIM Profile: After 15 minutes, download your eSIM through: a) Device notification or b) QR code sent to your email. Activate profile, remove physical SIM, restart device
• Step 5: Regional Availability: Vi eSIM is currently not supported in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, Northeast, and Assam.

Steps to get a Vi eSIM in India (SMS) (for prepaid & postpaid)

• Step 1: Check Your Email ID: Ensure your email ID is active and linked to your Vi number. QR code for activation will be sent here
• Step 2: Locate and Input EID: Find the 32-digit EID in device settings. Incorrect EID = failed activation
• Step 3: Verify with OTP: Enter the OTP received on your Vi number for identity confirmation
• Step 4: Send SMS and Confirm: Send: eSIM <EID> <Device Type> <Email ID> (Use 1 for iOS, 2 for Android) Example: eSIM 89049032000001012345678912345678 1 user@example.com. Then reply: eSIM Y to 199. You’ll receive:
  • QR code on email & SMS
  • IVR call for final confirmation
  • Setup instructions
• Step 5: Supported Devices Only: Works only on handsets that support eSIM (Check FAQs for full device list)
• Step 6: Regional Restrictions: Vi eSIM is currently unavailable in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Odisha, Northeast, and Assam.

Conclusion

Switching to a Vi eSIM gives you a seamless, secure, and completely digital mobile experience, no physical card needed. With just your EID, a compatible device, and a stable Wi-Fi connection, you can activate your eSIM through the Vi App or SMS in minutes. Whether you're an Android or iPhone user, Vi ensures a smooth setup process and uninterrupted connectivity. Whenever you're ready to upgrade to a smarter, clutter-free mobile experience, activating your Vi eSIM is the perfect first step.

If you found this article valuable, consider exploring more on eSIM solutions. Discover practical tips in How to Convert Vi SIM to eSIM, learn how to effortlessly manage your digital setup with our Step-by-Step Guide on How to Transfer Your eSIM from One Phone to Another. These resources will help you stay informed and make the most of your eSIM experience.