What an eSIM is and how it works
In short: An eSIM is a digital SIM installed on your device by scanning a QR code, with no plastic card. It is added as a second network profile alongside your Israeli SIM — it does not replace it.
A SIM without the plastic
Instead of a physical card you swap in and out, an eSIM is a network profile loaded onto the device by scanning a QR code.
The device holds the new profile alongside the Israeli SIM already in it, which is what lets you keep both at once.
Install before you fly
Do the installation at home, while you have a stable internet connection — not at the airport and not after landing.
The plan does not start counting at installation: it starts the moment the device first connects to a mobile network at your destination. You can install days ahead without spending anything.
What happens to your Israeli number
An eSIM plan is a data plan. It gives you internet, not a new phone number.
Your Israeli number stays on the regular SIM in your device and stays reachable on WhatsApp. Whether it still receives calls and SMS depends on your mobile operator.
If you need your Israeli number to keep receiving calls and SMS anywhere, that is exactly what the Globalex relocation service does.
After you land
The device connects to the local network and data starts working. There is nothing to activate manually beyond selecting the profile.
You can see how much data is left and add a plan in your account area, without buying again from scratch.
Frequently asked
Does the eSIM replace my Israeli SIM?
No. It is added beside it as a second network profile, and the Israeli SIM stays in the device.
When does the plan start counting?
The moment the device first connects to a mobile network at your destination — not at purchase and not at installation.
Can I install it after landing?
It is better to install before the flight, while you have a stable connection. Installing does not start the plan.
Do I get a new phone number?
No. It is a data plan only — internet, with no new number.
More guides
Does my phone support eSIM
How to check whether your phone supports eSIM and what a network-locked device means — before you buy a plan.
How much data does a trip need
How to choose a data plan by trip length and how you use your phone, and what to do if you run out mid-trip.
eSIM, local SIM or roaming — which suits whom
A straight comparison of the three ways to get online abroad: what each gives you, what it does not, and who it suits.