Turning on data roaming and choosing the eSIM for data
A travel eSIM joins local networks as a visitor, so it works through roaming. Two settings decide whether it works:
- Data roaming must be on for the Globalia eSIM. With roaming off on that line, it gets no data at all.
- The eSIM must be the line your phone uses for mobile data. If your home SIM is still the data line, the eSIM sits unused and your usual carrier may charge you for roaming.
Each line has its own roaming switch, so turning it on for the eSIM doesn't turn it on for your home SIM.
Data roaming
- Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data / Mobile Service).
- Tap the Globalia eSIM line.
- Turn on Data Roaming. On some iOS versions it's inside Cellular Data Options.
Data line
- Go back to Settings > Cellular and tap Cellular Data.
- Choose the Globalia eSIM.
- If you see Allow Cellular Data Switching, turn it off so your data stays on the eSIM.
Data roaming
- Samsung: Settings > Connections > Mobile networks, then turn on Data roaming.
- Pixel: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs, choose the eSIM, then turn on Roaming.
- Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO: Settings > Mobile networks > Data roaming, then set International roaming to Always.
- Motorola: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs & mobile network, choose the eSIM, then turn on Roaming.
Data line
- Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM manager, tap Mobile data and choose the eSIM.
- Pixel and most others: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs, choose the eSIM and turn on Mobile data. On Xiaomi, set Default SIM cards > Data to the eSIM.
Menu names vary by model and software version.
Your home SIM
You can keep your home SIM switched on so your number still receives calls and texts. To avoid roaming charges from your home carrier, turn data roaming off for your home SIM. Your home carrier's own rates for calls and texts abroad still apply.
If your Globalia plan comes with its own phone number and you want to call or text from it, also choose the eSIM as the line for calls and texts.
After changing these settings, turn Airplane mode on for about 30 seconds, then off. Still no data? Contact support.
Updated November 4, 2026