What is an eSIM, and how do Genghis eSIMs work?

An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone; a Genghis eSIM is a travel data plan you pay for with crypto and install from a QR code.

We sell eSIM data plans for 50 countries and a Europe-wide plan: data only, no phone number. Install the eSIM at home on Wi-Fi and switch it on when you land.

By Claudio Cuccovillo, founder of Genghis. Last updated: September 26, 2026.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a SIM in digital form, built into the phone. Apple and Google both describe it as a digital SIM that needs no physical card (checked September 25, 2026). Your phone must support eSIM and be unlocked: check whether your phone is compatible.

What does a Genghis eSIM give me?

Mobile data in one destination for a set number of days. Plans run from 1 GB for 7 days to 20 GB for 30 days, plus three extras as of September 25, 2026: USA 20 GB / 90 days, Malaysia 20 GB / 15 days and United Arab Emirates 10 GB / 60 days.

• Where: the 50 countries with their own plan, or the Europe eSIM for 33 countries and territories.
• When: the days start at the first network connection, not at purchase. Read when your plan starts.
• What: data only. Your own SIM keeps working for calls and texts. Read why there is no phone number.

How do I get my eSIM after paying?

By email and on your order page. Your eSIM QR code appears on screen as soon as the payment confirms, and arrives by email. How long the confirmation takes depends on the coin.

The email, "Your eSIM for order [order number]", holds the QR code, an "Install on iPhone" button, an "Install on Android" button and the activation code for manual entry. No KYC at checkout: an email address is all we ask for. Purchase limits apply: see the AML policy.

What are the three rules to get right?

Wi-Fi, roaming, and never deleting it.

1. Install it on Wi-Fi, on the phone you travel with.
2. When you land, turn the eSIM on and turn data roaming on for it.
3. Never delete it, even when the data runs out: a deleted eSIM cannot be installed again.

An installed eSIM stays on that phone and cannot be moved to another one. Step by step: install on an iPhone, install on Android, data roaming and APN, an eSIM that does not connect and getting more data.

Can I get a refund?

An eSIM is refunded in full within 30 days if it has not been installed. Read eSIM refunds. The eSIM catalog also lists three eSIM credit vouchers from other brands, redeemed on each brand's own site: they follow the refund rules for codes.

Browse the eSIM data plans you can pay for with crypto.

Still stuck? Write to samantha@genghis.pro with your order number.