Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions travellers ask most often about esimGB eSIMs.
What is an eSIM and how does it work?
An eSIM is a SIM card embedded directly in your phone, with no physical carrier. It is activated by scanning a QR code received by email, and the carrier profile installs automatically on the device. It does not require replacing your current SIM card and can coexist alongside it.
How do I check whether my phone supports eSIM?
Dial *#06# from your phone app. If an EID code (approximately 32 digits) appears on screen, your phone supports eSIM. If only the IMEI is shown without an EID, the device does not have eSIM functionality enabled and will not be able to use the service.
How do I install the eSIM on my phone?
After purchase you receive a QR code and an installation guide by email. You scan the QR code with your phone camera, confirm adding the data profile, and activate the line in settings. The process takes about a minute and requires no additional app.
When does the data plan activate?
The data plan activates at the moment the eSIM connects for the first time to a network in the destination country. This means the validity period begins on arrival, not when you install the profile at home, which avoids wasting days before you travel.
What happens on arrival in the destination country?
On arrival, you enable the eSIM from your phone settings and select an available network. The data connection is established automatically within a few minutes. You do not need to look for Wi-Fi or buy a local SIM card, since the profile is already installed and ready to use.
Can I add more data after my plan runs out?
Yes, an installed eSIM accepts subsequent top-ups without restriction. Once the initial plan is used up, you can purchase another plan from your account on gb.ro, and the data is added to the same profile with no need for a new QR code or reinstallation.
Do I receive a fiscal invoice for my purchase?
Yes, a Romanian fiscal invoice, issued automatically and filed to e-Factura, is provided by Gadget Bigboys SRL. The order confirmation received from Shopify is not a fiscal document, but only a payment confirmation. The invoice arrives at the email address provided at checkout, usually on the same day.
Can I return an eSIM after delivery?
A delivered eSIM cannot be returned, because the profile is generated and associated with the device at the time of purchase. This is standard practice in the industry. Before ordering, check your phone's compatibility by dialling *#06# to confirm the presence of an EID code.
Can I use my phone as a hotspot or for tethering?
Yes, the GB Travel Plus and GB Travel Max plans allow connection sharing via hotspot or tethering. These are recommended for business travel, busy destinations, or when you need a stable connection for multiple devices. The standard GB Travel plan is sufficient for everyday browsing.
What does the phone number included with GB Travel Max mean?
The GB Travel Max plan includes a phone number associated with the eSIM profile, which allows you to receive SMS messages, including OTP codes from banks or other services. This number is not a Romanian local number, but a number attached to the roaming service. The benefit label is "+ phone number".
Can I use the eSIM in multiple countries within the European Union?
Yes, the eSIM works in the countries included in the purchased plan, including European Union member states. No additional roaming charges apply within the area covered by the plan. Check the list of countries included in the description of each plan before purchase.
What happens when the data in my plan runs out?
When the included data is used up, the data connection stops until you top up. No additional charges are applied automatically. You can add a new plan from your account on gb.ro, and the data becomes available on the same eSIM profile without reinstallation.
Can I use the eSIM alongside my physical SIM card?
Yes, most eSIM-compatible phones allow the simultaneous use of two lines. You can keep your physical SIM card active for calls and SMS, and use the eSIM for data abroad. Check your phone settings to confirm whether your model supports dual SIM dual standby.
How do you provide support for customers who experience issues?
Support is provided in Romanian via WhatsApp throughout your trip. The Gadget Bigboys SRL team answers questions related to installation, activation, top-ups, and troubleshooting. WhatsApp contact details are included in the order confirmation email and in the installation guide.
How long does eSIM delivery take after payment?
Delivery is by email, in the form of a QR code and an installation guide, within a few minutes of payment confirmation on gb.ro. There is no physical delivery, since the eSIM profile is digital. Check your spam folder if you do not receive the email within the first five minutes.