When does my plan's validity start?

Not every plan starts the same way. Your plan's days begin at the moment shown under Starts on its plan page. Your order and your eSIM email remind you to check it before you install.

What each Starts value means

• On first connection: the days start when the eSIM first connects to a supported network at your destination, not when you buy it. You can install it before you leave and keep the line turned off until you arrive.
• When installed: the days start as soon as the eSIM is downloaded and installed on your phone, even if it has not connected to a network yet. Wait to install it until you are ready to use the plan.
• Immediately after purchase: the days start as soon as your payment goes through, not when you install or connect. Buy it only when you are ready to use it. The plan page shows a warning about this before you pay.

If no start is shown

Some plans do not show a Starts line, and the eSIM email may say "Check before installing". That means the start has not been confirmed for that plan. If the timing matters for your trip, contact support before you install the eSIM, and we will confirm when the days begin.

Things to know

• Install deadlines: some plans must be installed within a set time after purchase. If the plan page shows Install within, install it before then, or the plan may expire.
• The plan page is what counts. The start rule shown on the plan page and your order confirmation is the one that applies to your plan.
• Before your trip: for a plan that starts on first connection, keep the eSIM line off until you land, so it does not connect early.

To install when you are ready, follow our installation guide.