If your Firsty eSIM will not install, these steps cover the most common causes and how to fix them.
1. You already tried installing this eSIM on another device
An eSIM can only be installed once and is locked to the first device where it was successfully installed. If you are reinstalling on the same device (for example, after deleting it), you can use the original QR code again.
If you are switching to a new phone, purchase a replacement eSIM for €0.90 in the Support section of the Firsty app. Deleting the eSIM from your old phone does not make it reusable on another device.
2. Your phone is carrier locked
Some phones are locked to a specific mobile provider and cannot use eSIMs from other providers.
Check on iPhone
Go to Settings > General > About
Scroll down to Carrier Lock
If it says No SIM restrictions, your phone is unlocked
If it shows anything else, contact your carrier to unlock the device
3. Your phone does not support eSIM
Not all phones (especially older or budget models) support eSIM technology.
Check whether your device supports eSIM: Is your device eSIM compatible?
4. You are using an eSIM adapter or third-party workaround
Some users try to use eSIMs through special apps or adapters that claim to work around device limits. These often cause installation problems.
Install the eSIM directly through your phone's settings, following the steps in the Firsty app.
5. Your iOS or Android software is not up to date
Older operating systems may not support eSIM activation properly.
Update your phone to the latest version of iOS or Android, then try installing again.
6. Your internet connection is unstable
A poor WiFi or mobile data connection can cause the eSIM download or installation to fail. Some WiFi networks use firewalls that block connections to Firsty's servers.
Try again on a different WiFi network, or switch to mobile data if available.
7. You are in Turkey and need to activate your eSIM
Some iPhones and iPads purchased in Turkey may have eSIM disabled by default.
Devices purchased after June 23, 2020
Your eSIM should activate automatically during setup. If it does not, contact your mobile carrier.
Devices purchased before June 23, 2020
You may need to erase your device and set it up again to enable eSIM. Back up your device first, then:
Back up your iPhone or iPad
Update to the latest iOS or iPadOS
Open Settings → General → Transfer or Reset [Device] → Erase All Content and Settings
Enter your passcode or Apple ID password if prompted, then confirm
Restore from backup and proceed to set up your eSIM
IMEI registration in Turkey
Turkey requires your device's IMEI to be registered with the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR/BTK) if you plan to use mobile data for more than 91 days within a 120-day period. If your IMEI is not registered, you may see No Service or lose mobile connectivity. You can check or register your IMEI through the official Turkish government portal (e-Devlet Kapısı) or at local mobile operator stores: https://www.turkiye.gov.tr/btk-imei-kaydet
Access to this portal may require a Turkish ID or local credentials.
Install and activate your Firsty eSIM before you travel when possible. If you are already at your destination, connect to a reliable WiFi network and try again.
8. You are traveling in Egypt and cannot access mobile data
Egypt requires mobile devices to be registered with the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) before mobile data can be used on local networks.
In some cases, your Firsty eSIM may install and activate successfully, but mobile data may still not work if your device is not registered. This government rule affects local SIM cards and roaming eSIM providers.
What you can do
Turn Data Roaming on
Confirm your Firsty plan is active
Register your device through the NTRA Telephony Portal if required by local authorities
Note: Steps such as APN changes, manual network selection, or reinstalling the eSIM may not help if the device is blocked due to IMEI registration requirements.
If you still have issues after registration, contact Firsty Support from the app.
9. You have installed too many Firsty eSIMs on your phone
Contact Firsty Support from the app so the team can help you complete installation.
10. You have too many eSIMs installed on your phone
Your phone may limit how many eSIM profiles it can store at once. Delete unused eSIM profiles from your phone settings, then try installing your Firsty eSIM again.
If installation still fails, contact Firsty Support from the app.