Par In brief
- An eSIM is a digital SIM — nothing to insert, activated by QR code.
- All four French networks (Orange, SFR, Bouygues, Free) and their sub-brands support eSIM.
- Travel eSIM apps (Airalo, Holafly, Ubigi…) are ideal for short trips and instant data.
- Your phone must be eSIM-compatible (most models since ~2018/2019).
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) does the same job as a physical SIM, but it is a chip already soldered inside your phone. Instead of swapping a plastic card, you download an operator profile — usually by scanning a QR code — and your line is live. Many phones let you keep several eSIM profiles and run two numbers at once (for example a home number and a French one).
Physical SIM vs eSIM
| Physical SIM | eSIM | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Insert the card | Scan a QR code — instant |
| Where to get it | Shop, tabac, supermarket | Online / app, before or on arrival |
| Two numbers at once | Only with dual-SIM slot | Yes, on most recent phones |
| Phone needed | Any phone | eSIM-compatible model only |
| Best for | In-store help, older phones | Fast setup, travel, dual number |
Who supports eSIM in France?
French operators
- All four networks — Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom and Free Mobile — offer eSIM on their plans;
- their low-cost brands Sosh and RED by SFR support eSIM too;
- you can usually convert an existing physical SIM to an eSIM from your online account, free of charge.
Travel eSIM apps
For a short trip, dedicated travel eSIM apps sell data-only plans for France or Europe that you activate in minutes:
- Airalo, Holafly, Ubigi, Saily — data packages by country/region, from a few days to a month;
- great for internet and maps on the go, but most give no French phone number for calls/SMS;
- if you need a French number (for admin, deliveries, banking), pick a French operator eSIM instead.
Get a French eSIM the easy way
An English-speaking Selectra advisor checks your phone compatibility, compares eSIM-ready French plans and helps you activate one — in English.
How to activate an eSIM in France
Activating an eSIM takes just a few minutes :
-
1
Check your phone is eSIM-compatible (most iPhones since the XS, and recent Samsung, Google Pixel and other Android models).
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2
Choose a plan — a French operator eSIM for a local number, or a travel eSIM app for data only.
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3
You receive a QR code (by email or in the app).
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4
On your phone, open Settings > Mobile / Cellular > Add eSIM and scan the QR code.
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5
Turn the eSIM line on, set it for data (and calls if it is a French number), and you are connected.
Is an eSIM right for you?
- Short trip, data only: a travel eSIM app is fastest and cheapest;
- Living in France: a French operator eSIM gives you a local number and full calls/SMS;
- Keep your home number too: use the eSIM as a second line alongside your physical SIM;
- Older phone or no eSIM support: stick with a physical prepaid SIM.
Not sure which eSIM to pick?
Our English-speaking advisors check your phone, compare eSIM-ready French plans and help you activate one — free of charge.
Frequently asked questions
Most phones released since 2018–2019 are: iPhone XS and newer, recent Samsung Galaxy (S20+), Google Pixel (3 and newer) and many other Android models. Check Settings > Mobile/Cellular for an Add eSIM option, or dial *#06# to see if an EID number is listed.
Yes — order an eSIM from a French operator (Orange, SFR, Bouygues, Free or their sub-brands) and you get a full French number with calls, SMS and data. Travel eSIM apps, by contrast, are usually data-only and give no French number.
An eSIM is faster to set up, works before you land and lets you run two numbers at once — ideal if your phone supports it. A physical SIM is better for older phones or if you want in-store help.
Usually yes, and for free: request the switch from your operator’s app or online account, receive a new QR code and scan it. Your number and plan stay the same.
A French operator eSIM includes Roam like at Home across the EU, just like a physical SIM. Travel eSIM apps sell regional (Europe) packages, so check the coverage of the plan you buy.