Azerbaijan eSIM

Most flagship smartphones released since 2018-2019 support eSIM, including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer. Tablets, smartwatches and an increasing number of laptops also support eSIM. The fastest way to verify your specific device is to check Settings , if you see "Add eSIM" or "Add cellular plan" as an option, you're compatible.

eSIM compatibility is now standard across the high-end smartphone market and rapidly spreading into mid-range devices. eSIMBuy works with any unlocked, eSIM-capable device , no special configuration needed beyond scanning the QR code we send you.

iPhones with eSIM support

• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR (2018) , first iPhones with eSIM (one physical SIM + one eSIM).
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max (2019).
• iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max (2020).
• iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max (2021) , supports two active eSIMs simultaneously.
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max (2022) , US versions are eSIM-only (no physical SIM tray).
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, iPhone SE 3 and later , full eSIM support.

Google Pixel with eSIM support

• Pixel 3 / 3 XL and all later models (Pixel 4, 4a, 5, 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, Pixel Fold).

Samsung Galaxy with eSIM support

• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, S20 FE (2020) , first Galaxy with eSIM.
• Galaxy S21 / S22 / S23 / S24 series (all variants except some regional versions).
• Galaxy Z Fold 2, 3, 4, 5 and Z Flip 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
• Galaxy Note 20, 20 Ultra.
• Note: Some regional Samsung variants (e.g., specific Hong Kong dual-SIM physical models) may not support eSIM. Check Settings → Connections → SIM Card Manager.

Other Android devices with eSIM

• Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro and newer flagships.
• Motorola: Razr (2019+), Edge 30 series, ThinkPhone.
• Xiaomi: Mi 11 series and newer (international versions).
• OnePlus: OnePlus 11, 12 (verify region).
• Sony: Xperia 1 IV, 5 IV, 10 IV and newer.
• Nokia / HMD: G60, X30 5G.

How to verify eSIM support on your device

1. iPhone: Settings → Cellular → look for "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan". You can also dial *#06# , if you see an "EID" (32-digit number), your phone has eSIM hardware.
2. Android: Settings → Connections (or Network & Internet) → SIM Cards → look for "Download a SIM instead" or "Add eSIM".
3. EID check: most eSIM-capable Android phones show EID in Settings → About Phone → Status.

Tip: Even if your phone supports eSIM hardware, it must be unlocked (not carrier-locked) to use third-party eSIMs like eSIMBuy. Most phones bought outright are unlocked; phones from carrier instalment plans may require unlocking after the contract is paid off.

Almost every flagship smartphone released since 2019 supports eSIM, making it ideal for international travel. Compatible models include iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, plus a growing list of mid-range devices. If your phone has Settings → Cellular → "Add eSIM", you're ready to use a eSIMBuy plan abroad.

Travellers benefit most from eSIM because it eliminates the airport SIM-card queue, removes the need to swap your home SIM out, and lets you keep your usual phone number active for SMS verification. A eSIMBuy travel eSIM activates the moment you land , no shop visit required.

Best eSIM-compatible travel phones

• iPhone (2018+): XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 series and SE 3rd gen , all support Dual SIM with one physical SIM + one eSIM. iPhone 14/15/16 in the US is eSIM-only.
• Google Pixel (2018+): Pixel 3 through Pixel 9 , all support eSIM. Pixel 7 Pro and newer support multiple active eSIMs.
• Samsung Galaxy (2020+): S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, Note 20, Fold and Flip series.
• Motorola: Razr (2019+), Edge 30/40, ThinkPhone , most newer flagships.
• OnePlus: OnePlus 11, 12 , varies by region.
• Sony: Xperia 1 IV / V, Xperia 10 IV / V.
• Xiaomi: Mi 11 international and newer flagships.
• Nokia/HMD: G60 5G, X30 5G.

What to check before buying a travel eSIM

1. eSIM hardware: dial *#06# , if an EID number appears, you're compatible.
2. Carrier unlock status: phones bought on instalment plans may be locked to your home carrier. Most outright purchases are unlocked.
3. iOS version: iOS 12.1 or newer for full eSIM support.
4. Android version: Android 9 or newer typically supports eSIM, though it depends on the manufacturer.
5. Region-specific variants: some Samsung models sold in Hong Kong or China are dual physical SIM with no eSIM , verify your specific model number.

Travel-friendly phones that don't support eSIM

• iPhones older than XS (iPhone X, 8, 7, 6 series).
• Most budget Android phones (entry-level Samsung A series before A53, Xiaomi Redmi entry models).
• Older Huawei devices without Google Services.
• Region-specific dual physical SIM variants (verify model number).

Tip: if your current phone doesn't support eSIM but you travel often, an unlocked, mid-range eSIM-capable phone (e.g., Pixel 7a, iPhone SE 3, Samsung Galaxy A55) makes an excellent secondary travel device , pair it with a eSIMBuy plan and you have a full mobile internet kit for any destination.

 This specific plan is valid only within Azerbaijan. This is the most important question for "Caucasus Tour" travelers. If you take the train from Baku to Tbilisi (Georgia) or cross the border to Iran, your connection will stop. For a seamless multi-country trip, we highly recommend our Regional eSIM (e.g., "Caucasus" plan) which covers both Azerbaijan and Georgia. 

This is a critical point. The government in Azerbaijan does frequently block or throttle social media and VoIP calls (WhatsApp calls, FaceTime, Skype) during political events. While text messaging usually works, you cannot rely on making clear voice or video calls. We strongly recommend you install a reliable VPN before you arrive to bypass these restrictions. 

No! This is the #1 roaming trap. Although Azerbaijan is in Europe, it is NOT a member of the European Union (EU). Your "Roam Like at Home" (RLAH) plan does not apply. Most EU, UK, and US carriers (like AT&T, Vodafone, O2) will charge you extremely high "Rest of World" international roaming rates (e.g., $10-$15 or £6 per day). A eSIMBuy eSIM is the only way to get a fixed, cheap data price. 

Yes, 100%. Buying a physical local SIM card (like Azercell or Bakcell) at Heydar Aliyev (GYD) Airport requires you to find the kiosk, wait in a long line, and go through a mandatory passport registration process. Our eSIM is 100% digital, requires no ID registration, and can be installed before you fly, so you are connected the moment you land (and can activate your VPN). 

Yes, in the cities. Our eSIM connects to premium local networks (like Azercell) that provide strong 4G/LTE coverage not just in the capital Baku, but also in the main tourist cities of Ganja and Sheki, and on the main highways. You may lose signal in the remote Caucasus Mountains, but you will be connected in all populated areas. 

 Generally, no. For short tourist visits (usually up to 30 days), you do not need to register your device's IMEI. However, if you plan to stay in Azerbaijan longer than 30 days, local regulations require you to register your phone to prevent it from being blocked. Our eSIM is perfect for short-term travel without this hassle. 

 Yes, absolutely. Bolt and Uber are the most popular ways to get around Baku safely and cheaply. You will need a stable data connection to book rides, track your driver in real-time, and pay via the app, as many drivers prefer digital payments over cash. 

 Yes. Our eSIM connects to premium local networks that provide strong 4G/LTE coverage not just in Baku, but also in popular mountain resort areas like Shahdag (Gusar) and Tufandag (Gabala), allowing you to share your skiing photos instantly. 

 Yes. During major events like the F1 Baku City Circuit, networks can get crowded, but our eSIM prioritizes stable connectivity. You can check live race updates, maps, and share videos from the stands without interruption. 

 Yes. While credit cards are widely accepted in Baku, many payment terminals require an active internet connection on your phone for instant transaction notifications or to top up your digital wallets. This eSIM ensures you are never stuck unable to pay at a restaurant in Nizami Street or Old City (Icherisheher). 

 Most modern phones do, but you must check our specific list here: eSIM Compatible Devices to be 100% sure before purchasing.