Can You Buy an eSIM for Someone Else? The Easy Way to Gift Connectivity

Got a travel buddy heading abroad? Here’s how you can buy and share an eSIM with them in just a few minutes—no hassle, no paperwork.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can gift or purchase an eSIM for someone else.

• Always confirm device compatibility before buying.

• Follow the step-by-step QR sharing process.

• Avoid mistakes like pre-installing it on your own device.

• The Bitjoy makes gifting seamless with instant QR delivery.

What You’re Really Asking

Buying an eSIM for someone else means purchasing a data plan and receiving a QR code, which you then forward to the recipient. Here's exactly how it works:

1. You buy an eSIM plan on BitJoy.com (takes 2 minutes)
2. You receive a QR code via email instantly
3. You forward that email/QR to your friend (via WhatsApp, text, email)
4. They scan the QR code in Settings > Add Cellular Plan
5. Within 2-5 minutes, they're connected—no SIM card swap, no airport hassle

The recipient doesn't need a BitJoy account, doesn't need to provide ID, and doesn't even need to know what an eSIM is. They just scan, activate, and go.

Imagine gifting your parents a data plan before their trip to Europe, or ensuring your friend lands in Japan with full connectivity—no SIM swapping, no airport chaos.

You don’t even need the recipient’s login. Once purchased, you just forward the QR code, and they can activate the eSIM in seconds. Simple, convenient, and thoughtful.

The Bitjoy takes care of the rest: instant activation, global coverage, and clear instructions—perfect for digital nomads and travel planners alike.

How Buying an eSIM for Someone Else Works

Step 1 – Check Compatibility

Before anything, make sure the recipient’s device supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Most recent models are compatible.

Checklist:

1. Unlocked phone (not tied to carrier)

2. eSIM feature enabled

3. iOS 14.1+ (for iPhone) or Android 9+ (for Android)

4. Active internet connection for setup

Typical compatible models include iPhone XS or later (XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16), Google Pixel 3 or later, and Samsung Galaxy S20 or later. Note: Your device must run iOS 14.1+ or Android 9+, and iPhones from mainland China don't support eSIM.

Important Exceptions:

• iPhones purchased in mainland China do NOT support eSIM (dual physical SIM only)
• Some iPhones from Hong Kong/Macao also lack eSIM (check your model)
• Turkish-produced phones may need factory reset before eSIM works

Step 2 – Choose the Right eSIM Plan

Pick a data plan based on travel style:

The Bitjoy offers all three with flexible durations and prepaid data—ideal for any traveler type.

Step 3 – Make the Purchase

Buy directly from thebitjoy.com in under 3 minutes:

1. Select Destination: Choose your recipient's travel destination (e.g., "Europe Regional" or "Thailand")

2. Pick Data Amount: Select how much data they'll need:

   • 1GB = Light use (maps, messaging) - $2.50
   • 3GB = Moderate use (social media, browsing) - $7.50
   • 5GB = Heavy use (video calls, streaming) - $12.00
   • 10GB+ = Very heavy use (work, content creation) - $24+

3. Choose Validity: 7 days, 15 days, or 30 days

4. Complete Payment: Pay with credit card OR crypto (Bitcoin, USDT, Ethereum)—BitJoy is one of the few providers accepting crypto for privacy-focused travelers

5. Get QR Code: Within 2 minutes, you'll receive an email with:

   • The QR code (as image and clickable link)
   • Step-by-step instructions for your recipient
   • Your order details and support contact

No recipient account required. No ID verification. No forms to fill out. The QR code is ready to forward immediately or save for later.

Step 4 – Send or Forward the eSIM

Forward the QR code via the messaging app or email of your choice. The recipient simply scans it to install and connect:

Scan → Confirm → Activate → Connected 

That’s it—they’ll have data as soon as the eSIM activates.

Important Things to Know Before Buying

One Installation Only

CRITICAL: Each eSIM QR code can only be scanned ONCE and permanently locks to one device.

What this means:

• Don't scan the QR code yourself "just to test" → You'll lock it to YOUR phone
• Don't send it until your recipient is ready with their unlocked phone
• Once they scan and activate, they CANNOT transfer it to a different device
• If they get a new phone mid-trip, the eSIM cannot be moved

Best practice: Send the QR code 24 hours before departure so they can install it when ready, but it won't activate data until they arrive at the destination (automatic activation on landing).

If you make a mistake: Contact BitJoy support within the 5-day refund window for a replacement QR code.

How BitJoy eSIM Activation Works:

Most BitJoy eSIMs use automatic activation—your recipient can install the eSIM before departure (while still at home with WiFi), and it will automatically "wake up" when they land in the destination country and turn on cellular data.

Example: Your friend installs the Japan eSIM in Los Angeles on Friday. They fly Saturday, land in Tokyo Sunday morning. When they turn off Airplane Mode and enable cellular data, the eSIM automatically connects to a Japanese network—no app, no manual start, no fumbling with settings at the airport.

Why this matters: Some competitors (like Airalo) require manual activation through their app, which needs an internet connection. If your recipient doesn't have airport WiFi, they're stuck waiting. BitJoy's automatic activation eliminates this hassle.

Check the plan page: Each BitJoy plan clearly states "Automatic activation on arrival" or "Manual activation required" so you know what to expect.

ID or KYC Requirements

No ID Required—Perfect for Gifting:

Many eSIM providers require the recipient's passport number, photo ID, or personal documents (called "KYC verification"). This makes gifting complicated—you'd need to ask your friend for their passport details, which feels invasive and takes time.

BitJoy advantage: Zero KYC required. No ID, no passport, no personal info needed from the recipient. Just their phone needs to be unlocked and eSIM-compatible.

Why this matters for gifting:

• Last-minute gifts possible: Buy an eSIM 10 minutes before someone's flight
• Privacy-friendly: You don't need to ask for sensitive documents
• Group travel made easy: Buy 10 eSIMs for a tour group without collecting everyone's passport info

For crypto users: BitJoy also accepts Bitcoin, USDT, and Ethereum—one of the few eSIM providers offering this payment option for privacy-conscious travelers.

Data Usage Visibility

You can track plan status in your Bitjoy dashboard. The recipient can also monitor data directly from their phone settings. Transparent and simple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t install the eSIM on your phone before sending.

• Avoid forwarding expired QR codes.

• Double-check device compatibility.

• Choose regional plans if your giftee is visiting multiple countries.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem 1: "QR Code Won't Scan"

• Solution:
  • Use the direct install link in the email instead (no scanning needed)
  • Ensure good lighting when scanning
  • Try enlarging the QR code image on your computer screen
  • Clean your phone camera lens

Problem 2: "eSIM Not Activating After Installation"

• Solution:
  • Turn OFF Airplane Mode
  • Turn ON Cellular Data in settings
  • Enable Data Roaming (required for eSIM to work abroad)
  • Wait 2-5 minutes—activation isn't instant
  • Restart your phone

Problem 3: "Device Says 'Invalid QR Code'"

• Possible causes:
  • Phone is carrier-locked (contact your carrier to unlock)
  • Device doesn't support eSIM (check compatibility list)
  • Already used QR code (each code works only once)
  • Wrong iOS version (need iOS 14.1+ for iPhone)

Problem 4: "I Accidentally Scanned the QR on My Phone"

• Solution: Contact BitJoy support immediately. Within the 5-day refund window, they can issue a new QR code for a small fee or provide a full refund.

Problem 5: "Recipient's Phone is Carrier-Locked"

• Solution: They need to contact their carrier (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.) to unlock the device. Most carriers unlock phones that are fully paid off. This process takes 24-48 hours, so plan ahead.

How The Bitjoy Makes Gifting Easier

No ID Hassle or Extra Documents

Skip the paperwork. Everything—from purchase to delivery—is fully digital.

Instant QR Delivery

1. Purchase your chosen plan

2. Receive the QR within seconds

3. Forward it securely

Unique Payment Options

Crypto-Friendly: BitJoy is one of the few eSIM providers accepting cryptocurrency:

• Bitcoin (BTC)
• Ethereum (ETH)
• USDT (Tether)

Why this matters: If you or your recipient prefer crypto for privacy or convenience, you can gift an eSIM without using credit cards. Perfect for digital nomads, crypto enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to keep financial transactions private.

Credit Card: All major cards accepted (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)

Flexible Data Plans for Global Travel

Bitjoy offers wide coverage across major destinations with prepaid, no-contract options—perfect for frequent travelers and digital nomads.

Simple 3-Step Gifting Process

1. Choose a destination plan

2. Complete secure checkout

3. Forward the QR instantly

CTA: Check The Bitjoy’s eSIM plans for your traveler friend today.

Alternatives If You Don’t Want to Buy a Separate eSIM

Both work, but eSIM gifting remains more reliable for seamless travel connectivity.

Quick Recap

You absolutely can buy an eSIM for someone else. Just check their device compatibility, follow the easy QR process, and trust reliable providers like The Bitjoy for smooth activation. Effortless, safe, and travel-ready.

FAQ

Can I transfer an installed eSIM to another device?

No. Each profile is tied to a single device once installed.

Can I send a physical SIM instead?

You can, but eSIM gifting is faster, greener, and instant.

Can I buy multiple eSIMs for my travel group?

Yes. Purchase multiple plans and share each QR separately.

Does the recipient need a Bitjoy account?

No. Activation works directly after scanning the QR—no login needed.

What if activation fails?

Use the Bitjoy Setup Guide or contact Bitjoy support for immediate help.

Keep your loved ones connected—explore The Bitjoy eSIM plans today.

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