Does Your Phone Support AT Ghana eSIM? — How to Check and Activate It the Right Way

Introduction: The Future of SIM Cards Is Here

Imagine landing at Kotoka International Airport and having your mobile network active before you leave the terminal—no hunting for a SIM card vendor, no fumbling with tiny plastic trays, no worrying about losing your original SIM. That is the promise of eSIM technology.

AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo) made history in November 2022 as the first mobile network operator in Ghana to launch eSIM services . Since then, thousands of Ghanaians have made the switch, enjoying the freedom of carrying multiple numbers on a single device without physical SIM cards.

But the most common question remains: Does your phone actually support eSIM?

This guide walks you through exactly how to check your phone’s compatibility, the step-by-step process to activate AT Ghana eSIM, and everything you need to know before making the switch.

Part 1: What Is eSIM and Why Should You Care?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your smartphone’s hardware. Unlike traditional plastic SIM cards, you do not need to insert or remove anything. The activation happens entirely through software.

Key Benefits:

AirtelTigo was the first telecom network to bring eSIM technology to Ghana in November 2022, making life easier for smartphone users . Today, AT Ghana continues to offer this service to both prepaid and postpaid customers .

Part 2: How to Check If Your Phone Supports eSIM

Before you visit any AT Ghana office, you must confirm that your device is eSIM-compatible. There are three reliable methods to check.

Method 1: Dial the Universal Code (Fastest)

Open your phone’s dialer and type: *#06#

Press the call button. A screen will pop up displaying several barcode numbers. Look for a code labeled “EID” (eSIM Identifier) followed by a long series of numbers .

• If you see an EID number: Your phone supports eSIM. You are ready to proceed.

• If you do not see an EID: Your phone is not eSIM-compatible .

The EID is a unique identifier for the eSIM chip built into your device. If it appears, the hardware is present and ready for activation.

Method 2: Check Your Phone Settings

You can also verify compatibility through your phone’s settings menu:

For iPhone (iOS):

• Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data)

• Look for “Add Cellular Plan” or “Add eSIM”

• If this option appears, your iPhone supports eSIM

For Android:

• Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager

• Look for “Add eSIM” or “Add mobile plan”

• If this option appears, your device is eSIM-compatible

Method 3: Check Official Compatibility Lists

iPhones that support eSIM:

• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and newer models

• All iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 series

Android phones that support eSIM:

• Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer (S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25)

• Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and newer

• Google Pixel 3 and newer

• Huawei P40, P50, Mate 40 series and newer

• Most new mid-range and flagship devices from 2020 onward

If you are unsure, the *#06# method is the most reliable and takes only five seconds.

Part 3: How to Get Your AT Ghana eSIM

Unlike some international carriers that offer online eSIM registration, AT Ghana currently requires an in-person visit to activate eSIM . The process is straightforward but requires planning.

Step 1: Locate the Nearest AT Ghana Customer Service Centre

AT Ghana has service centres across the country. You can find one near you by checking the AT Ghana website or asking for directions at any AT Ghana retail shop.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

You need to bring:

Step 3: Request the eSIM Conversion

Inform the customer service agent that you want to switch your physical SIM to an eSIM. The agent will:

1. Verify your identity using your Ghana Card

2. Process the conversion in their system

3. Provide you with a unique QR code (either printed on paper or sent to your email)

The eSIM upgrade is free for existing AT Ghana customers .

Step 4: Scan Your QR Code

You will need to scan the QR code to download and install the eSIM profile onto your phone .

Important: The QR code is unique to your account and can be used only once on a single device . Do not lose it before activation, and do not share it with anyone.

Part 4: Step-by-Step Activation Guide

Once you have your QR code, follow these instructions based on your device type.

For iPhone (iOS) Users

For Android Users

Finalising Activation

After scanning the QR code:

1. Your eSIM profile will download and install automatically

2. You may need to restart your phone for changes to take full effect

3. Once activated, you can set your eSIM as the primary line for calls, messages, and data

Warning: Do not select the “Delete” option from your eSIM settings. This will permanently remove the eSIM profile, requiring you to visit an AT Ghana office again to obtain a new QR code .

Part 5: What Happens to Your Physical SIM?

Your existing physical SIM card continues to work during the transition period . Once you have successfully activated and tested your eSIM, you can safely remove the physical SIM from your phone.

The eSIM performs the same functions as a traditional SIM card, but it is activated by installing the eSIM profile on an eSIM-enabled device .

Part 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue 1: “No EID displayed when I dial *#06#”

Solution: Your phone does not support eSIM. You have two options:

• Continue using your physical SIM card

• Upgrade to a newer eSIM-compatible device

Issue 2: QR Code Not Scanning

Possible causes:

• Poor lighting or camera lens obstruction

• QR code is damaged (if printed)

• Wrong menu accessed on your device

Solution: Ensure you have selected the correct option (“Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan”) and that your camera is focused on the QR code in adequate lighting.

Issue 3: eSIM Not Activating After Scanning QR Code

Solution:

• Ensure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi

• Restart your phone

• If the issue persists, return to the AT Ghana centre for assistance

Issue 4: Accidentally Deleted eSIM Profile

Solution: If you accidentally select “Delete” from your eSIM settings, the profile is permanently removed . You must visit an AT Ghana customer service centre to obtain a new QR code.

Issue 5: eSIM Showing as “Not Active”

Solution:

• Toggle the line on/off in SIM Manager settings

• Ensure that your eSIM is set as the active line for mobile data

• Restart your device

Part 7: eSIM vs Physical SIM – Which One Is Right for You?

AT Ghana’s eSIM upgrade is free, so there is no financial barrier to trying it . The technology provides added flexibility by transforming compatible devices from single SIM to dual SIM capability .

Summary Table: AT Ghana eSIM at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I check if my phone supports eSIM?
Dial *#06# on your phone. If you see an “EID” number on the screen, your device is eSIM-compatible . You can also check your phone’s settings for an “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan” option .

2. Does AT Ghana offer eSIM?
Yes. AT Ghana (formerly AirtelTigo) launched eSIM services in November 2022 and was the first mobile network operator in Ghana to do so .

3. Can I get an AT Ghana eSIM online?
No. AT Ghana does not currently offer online eSIM registration. You must visit an AT Ghana customer service centre in person with your Ghana Card .

4. How much does the AT Ghana eSIM cost?
The eSIM upgrade is free for existing AT Ghana customers .

5. Will I lose my phone number when switching to eSIM?
No. Your mobile number stays the same. The eSIM replaces your physical SIM card but uses the same phone number .

6. Can I use eSIM and physical SIM simultaneously?
Yes. eSIM transforms single-SIM devices into dual-SIM devices, allowing you to use both an eSIM and a physical SIM on the same phone .

7. What if I delete my eSIM profile by accident?
Deleting the eSIM profile permanently removes it. You will need to visit an AT Ghana customer service centre again to obtain a new QR code .

8. How long does the activation process take?
The in-person process at the AT Ghana centre takes about 10-15 minutes. Scanning and activating the QR code on your phone takes another 2-3 minutes.

9. Is eSIM available for both prepaid and postpaid customers?
Yes. MTN Ghana offers eSIM to both Prepaid and Postpaid subscribers , and AT Ghana’s eSIM service is similarly available to all customers.

10. Can tourists get an AT Ghana eSIM?
AT Ghana’s eSIM process requires a valid Ghana Card , which suggests the service is primarily designed for Ghanaian citizens and residents. Tourists may need to consider international eSIM providers or physical SIM cards.

Conclusion: Make the Switch with Confidence

AT Ghana was the first to bring eSIM technology to Ghana, and the service has matured since its November 2022 launch . The process is straightforward: check compatibility, visit a service centre, scan a QR code, and you are done.

The five-second *#06# test instantly tells you whether your device is ready. If you see an EID number, you are eligible . The upgrade is free, the process is simple, and the benefits are immediate .

Millions of smartphone users in Ghana are already enjoying the freedom of eSIM technology. It is time to find out if your phone is compatible and join them.

Source: Accra Street Journal 

Last Updated on May 2, 2026 by Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.

accrastreetjournal.com/