Guide 03 / Device check
How to check if your phone can use a travel eSIM in Japan
Check eSIM hardware support, carrier lock status, EID availability and activation needs before buying a Japan travel eSIM.
You need two separate yes answers
Does the device support eSIM?
The exact model and regional version must contain eSIM hardware and software support.
Can it use another carrier?
A carrier-locked phone may support eSIM but still reject a travel plan from another provider.
Can you activate before departure?
Confirm the QR code or app method, required internet access and when the plan's validity begins.
Check an iPhone
- Open Settings, then General, then About.
- Find Carrier Lock. Apple says an unlocked iPhone shows “No SIM Restrictions.”
- Confirm the exact model supports eSIM in the country or region where it was sold.
- Ask your current carrier if the lock status is unclear. Apple cannot remove a carrier lock.
Check an Android phone
Menu names vary by manufacturer and carrier. Look under Network & internet, Connections or SIM settings for an option such as Add SIM, Download SIM or Set up eSIM. An EID shown in About phone or SIM status is another useful sign, but the carrier and exact model still need to support activation.
For Pixel phones, Google advises confirming eSIM support with the carrier and notes that the device IMEI or EID may be required during setup.
Check these details before checkout
- The exact model number—not only the marketing name.
- The country or region where the phone was purchased.
- Carrier unlock status.
- Whether the provider supports that device and activation method.
- Whether tethering is allowed and needed.
- When validity starts: purchase, installation or first network connection.
Official device guidance
Device guidance reviewed July 13, 2026. Models, regional variants and carrier policies can change.