What are the benefits and processes of using eSIMs in Thailand for expats?

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Questions are asked everyday about getting a SIM card for Thailand. Where to get, what the best operator is and price etc.

Esims are now a very popular option available on most modern phones, or indeed the only option for the new iPhones from the US.

There’s loads of companies out there offering you special deals. Pick one that suits the time and data requirements you may need and order it. Generally they send you an email with a QR code to install it for ease of use. You’ll need two devices, a printer or a friend to help as currently there is no way to scan a QR code from the email to install the sim without using your camera to scan it (or if someone knows an alternative way please advise).

Where the Esims have a major advantage is if they are an “area” Esim like valid for the whole of SE Asia or even worldwide. This means if you are visiting 3 or so countries in that area you don’t need to mess about with buying physical sims for each country and keep swapping them around.

Currently a typical Esim for Thailand is marginally more expensive than their physical counterpart but I’m sure that will change over time. They’re just so convenient. Pre install and it’s ready the moment you touch down.

I’m not going to say one company’s product is better than the others. Google will give you the options to choose from.

The main advantage as I see it is there is no messing about with installing or swapping physical sims, if you are travelling to various countries you can buy one that works in all and you don’t have the danger of losing your original tiny little sim from your own country and all the hassle of replacing that if you did.

Ask Thailand · Answer

This discussion highlights the increasing popularity of eSIMs in Thailand, especially for expats. Users report that eSIMs are convenient as they allow for easy installation via QR codes and can be pre-installed before arrival in Thailand, eliminating the need for physical SIM card purchases. There are advantages to area-specific eSIMs, which enable usage across multiple Southeast Asian countries without the hassle of swapping SIM cards. A few users comment on the requirement for physical SIM purchases to show a passport and fill out paperwork, suggesting that eSIMs simplify this process. Additionally, there are inquiries about the speed and performance of eSIMs compared to physical SIMs. The conversation also explores the technical aspects of scanning QR codes for eSIM installation and suggests alternatives for users facing difficulties.

Joe ********* · Answer

I added a USA esim (mint mobile) to my phone and it works great to toggle between the two. Also having the USA number makes two factor challenges from my bank easy.

Keef ******** · Answer

Android.  to add the esim can use picture of esim in your save images.   Must be an Apple limitation to not allow this.  Or your phone isn't Samsung of recent years.

Roy *********** · Answer

I imagine you are familiar with scanning a QR code received electronically, such via email or a Line message etc. Perhaps that doesn't work for eSims, or maybe it does. In case it might, and excuse me if you already know this (and you probably do)...

Capture the image of the QR code from your email or your message with a download option or a screenshot. Use a QR reader to scan, use the option to use an image in your gallery, select the saved QR code image - it should be able to recognize it. Unless the eSim has a different sequence which doesn't make it so easy.

Sammy ********** · Answer

Would like to know how to get eSim for Thialand for 1 month use online??

Jeffrey ******* · Answer

I use my iPad or MacBook to display the QR code.

Tong ***** · Answer

I'd be very interested to hear from anyone who lives in Thailand permanently and uses an esim. Any better speedwise? Still throttled like sims?

Keith ************ · Answer

If you buy a physical SIM card in Thailand, don't you have to show your passport and fill out paperwork? With an esim, you don't have to do that.

What are the benefits and processes of using eSIMs in Thailand for expats?

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