Short answer: your 4S data plan starts on first use. Installing the eSIM on your phone is not the same as starting the data plan.
Install vs start
| Action | What it means | Does it start the data plan? |
|---|---|---|
| Install the eSIM | The eSIM profile is added to your phone. | No. Installation alone does not start the data plan. |
| First use | The eSIM connects to a supported network and starts using mobile data. | Yes. This is when the data plan starts. |
Before your trip
- Install the eSIM within 1 month before departure.
- Use Wi-Fi for installation.
- Name the eSIM clearly, such as 4S eSIM, your destination country or region, or Travel.
- Do not delete the eSIM after installation.
At your destination
- Open your phone SIM or eSIM settings.
- Turn on the eSIM profile you installed for 4S.
- Select that eSIM label as your mobile data line.
- Turn on data roaming for that same eSIM line.
- Turn Wi-Fi off briefly to test mobile data.
If you turn on the 4S eSIM and use data before you are ready to travel, the plan may start from that first use.
Need help?
If your plan does not start after first use at the destination, contact 4S support through support@4s.net, a Zendesk support ticket, or Zendesk live chat. Include your order email, ICCID if available, destination, phone model, and screenshots of the eSIM settings page.