Can the Vodafone eSIM's be ordered and activated outside of the UK, like from Australia?

[BeKind]

As per subject title, does anyone know if Vodafone's eSIM's can be ordered and activated outside of the UK, eg from Australia?

[AnnS]

The problem @BeKind is you would need to log into your online account or Application to activate the eSIM and that would involve Vodafone sending you a verification code OTP to confirm identity, if you are on a roaming network, it's unlikely you would receive the code.

If Vodafone were able to activate the eSIM they will send a QR code that will need to be downloaded over the internet, if this works you should receive a welcome text to the country and be able to roam.

There is further information from Vodafone here: eSIM If you use Google Vodafone also provide further information on the website.

I am sure this thread will be read by a member of the Social Team for good advise.

[BeKind]

Thanks for your reply.

I have been told that... 

In order to activate eSIM  you would require first physical SIM 

Does anyone know if this is correct?

[Andy]

Hi @BeKind 👋 A eSIM or a physical SIM does need to be first activated and used on our Vodafone UK network as part of it's initial setup. In answer to your question about whether you need a physical SIM first and then swap to an eSIM, this wouldn't be the case as a connection can be taken out initially with an eSIM without issue. The problem you will face is that any SIM we provide will need to first activated while it is in a device that is situated within the UK. 

[BeKind]

So that would mean that a physical SIM order would be the best option, I can ask a friend to activate it in the UK for me, then post it to me abroad. I then request an eSIM once I receive the physical SIM.  Would that work?  or do I need to activate the eSIM in the UK first?

[Andy]

@BeKind The eSIM would need to setup and activated on the device while in the UK to successfully complete the activation. Just also be aware if you're using the SIM more while abroad roaming than you do in the UK, you may trigger our acceptable use policy, you can find more details in this link. If you have any other queries please let us know.

[BeKind]

Looks like the physical SIM is the way to go.  I'm an expat. I won't be using the UK SIM everyday (more like a few times a month, and mostly on standby) and won't be making calls everyday or using data, as I have a local AUS SIM plan here and will use that for data and local calls & SMS here, but I need to be able to stay in touch with friends and family back home, and be able to use it for UK bank verification etc...  Also, when I travel to other countries on holiday like Singapore, US, back to the UK and Europe I should be able to use it without too much additional costs?

The only Vodafone UK SIM plan that looks suitable would be...

Unlimited Max + 3 Xtra benefits
83 roaming destinations
Speed: Fastest available
Data
Unlimited
Minutes & Texts
Unlimited
Monthly*
£43