Norway 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.

No, roaming in Norway is generally not free for travelers using UK or US SIM cards, and you will likely incur significant daily charges. This is a common roaming trap many visitors encounter.

While Norway is part of the EEA, the "Roam Like at Home" regulations only apply to travelers from within the European Union. For everyone else, standard international roaming rates apply, which can be very expensive for mobile data and calls.

• For UK travelers (post-Brexit), most major UK carriers such as O2, Vodafone, and Three have reintroduced daily roaming fees for Norway, typically ranging from £2 to £6 per day.
• Travelers from the US, Canada, or Asia will find their home carriers charge expensive "Day Pass" rates, often between $10 and $14 per day, for using their phone in Norway.

To avoid these high costs, using a local solution like a eSIMBuy eSIM is often a significantly cheaper alternative for staying connected in Norway.

Yes, in all towns and key areas. Norway has one of the best 4G/5G networks in the world. Our eSIM connects to premium networks (like Telenor/Telia) that provide strong coverage in all towns (Bergen, Stavanger, Tromsø, Svolvær - Lofoten) and on the main roads. You will have a signal on most of the "Norway in a Nutshell" tour. 

Yes, surprisingly often.

• Hiking: You will have a strong signal at the base and at the top of Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen). For Trolltunga, you will have a signal at the start and at the "Troll's Tongue" itself, but you will lose signal on the remote parts of the long hike.
• Trains: You will have a strong signal for most of the Flåm Railway and Bergen Line, but it will drop inside the longest mountain tunnels.

 This specific plan is valid only within Norway (or, if it's a regional plan, you'd say "Yes"). This is a critical point. If you take the train from Oslo to Stockholm (Sweden) or the ferry to Copenhagen (Denmark), your connection will stop at the border. For this, we highly recommend our Europe Regional eSIM, which covers all of Scandinavia. 

Our Norway eSIM connects to premium Tier-1 networks like Telenor and Telia, ensuring excellent speed and coverage across the country.

When you activate your eSIM for Norway, it automatically connects to one of these leading local providers. This means your device will be utilizing the same reliable infrastructure that local Norwegians depend on for their mobile service. Both Telenor and Telia are well-established carriers known for their strong performance and extensive reach, making them ideal partners for seamless connectivity during your travels.

Specifically, Telenor is widely regarded as having the best and most extensive coverage throughout Norway. This is particularly noticeable in more challenging terrains, such as the remote fjords and the northern Arctic regions, where maintaining a signal can be crucial for travelers. While Telia also offers robust service, Telenor often provides that extra peace of mind and connectivity in less populated or geographically demanding areas.

• Reliable Connectivity: Enjoy consistent network access, whether you're in a bustling city or exploring Norway's stunning natural landscapes.
• High Speeds: Benefit from fast data speeds for streaming, navigation, and staying in touch with loved ones.
• Extensive Coverage: Access a wide network footprint, especially with Telenor's strong presence in remote areas.

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

 Yes. You need reliable data to buy digital tickets on the Ruter or Vy apps to travel on buses, trams, and ferries in Oslo without facing fines. 

 Generally yes. You will have signal near the ports and along the coast, but connection may drop briefly when the Hurtigruten ships cross open sea stretches. 

 Yes. Norway is a nearly cashless society, and having data for the EasyPark app is essential for parking your rental car or EV in cities and nature spots. 

 Yes. Reliable data is critical to receive real-time notifications from the "Norway Lights" forecast app so you don't miss the aurora while waiting in the cold.