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How to activate your eSIM

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that's already built into your handset. So you no longer need a physical card. You can even order them in the My BASE app. That's especially handy, because we check your handset's compatibility and activate the eSIM in a few simple steps, so you can start calling, texting and browsing straight away. In other words, you no longer have to wait for your SIM card.

Note: eSIM is not available online for BASE Pro customers . Private customers can make use of eSIM, however.

Is my handset eSIM-compatible?

To use eSIM, your handset must support it.

Want to know what kind of SIM is in your handset? Find out, on your handset, with a few simple steps:

  • Apple - Settings > General > About
  • Android - Settings > Wireless & networks > Mobile networks
  • Samsung smartphones - Settings > Connections > SIM card manager

Activating eSIM

Already a BASE customer? Then you can easily switch to an eSIM in your SIM card settings in the My BASE app or via My BASE. 

New BASE customer? Then you can opt for an eSIM when you order your prepaid card or mobile monthly plan. 

Activating eSIM as a new customer

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Follow these simple steps:

  • Make sure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi. Otherwise, we can't activate your eSIM.
  • Go to the My BASE app, choose eSIM and order your monthly plan or prepaid card. Indicate whether you (1) want to keep your current number or (2) want a new number .
  • You will now receive a verification code. Identify yourself, either manually or via Itsme, and create an account.
  • An email will be sent to you with the PIN code for your new eSIM. Make a note of this PIN code! You will have to fill it in later to activate your eSIM.
  • Proceed to download and activate your eSIM on your phone, via iOS or Android.
  • Once you have completed all the steps, your eSIM is active and you can dispose of your physical SIM card.
     

Good to know: If you transfer an existing number from another operator to a BASE eSIM, the transfer of your number to BASE starts as soon as you enter the verification code in the My BASE app. This only takes a few minutes.Once the transfer is complete, you will be sent an email with a QR code you can use to activate your eSIM.

Tip: Use a desktop if you order via base.be. If you order via a mobile browser, it's best to switch to the My BASE app.

  • Make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection.
  • Choose an eSIM when you order your monthly plan or prepaid card.
  • If you order an eSIM, you need to register yourself via Itsme®. Unfortunately, it's not possible without Itsme®.
  • You can transfer your number from your previous provider or choose a new BASE number.
  • Confirm your order. On the confirmation screen you will see that you have ordered a BASE monthly plan with an eSIM.
  • You will receive an email with a QR code you can use to activate your eSIM.
     

As existing customer, from physical SIM card to eSIM

You can switch your SIM card to an eSIM via the My BASE app or in My BASE.  Log in, click the ‘SIM Info’ tab and follow the instructions: 

  • Switch SIM > transfer eSIM
  • Select ‘Request eSIM profile’
  •  Keep your handset and mobile number handy
  • You will receive an SMS verification code on your handset
  • Check that all your details are correct and confirm your order
  • Your eSIM is immediately active.

 

Frequently asked questions

If you transfer your physical SIM card to an eSIM, you will get a new PIN code or eSIM number. You can find this number on the ‘SIM Info’ tab via the My BASE app or My BASE.

You certainly can, as long as your phone supports eSIM.

No, a phone number can be linked to either an eSIM or a physical SIM card, but not both at the same time. When you switch from a physical SIM card to an eSIM, or vice versa, the other SIM is deactivated and no longer works.

An eSIM can only be used on a smartphone that supports an eSIM. You can check whether it does in your handset's settings. So, BASE eSIMs cannot be used on smartwatches, routers or tablets.

 

 

You can set up multiple eSIM profiles on your handset, but only one profile can be active. If you are switching from Orange to BASE, for example, it's a good idea to delete the profile of the Orange eSIM after you activate your BASE eSIM.

You can use a SIM PIN code to protect your SIM card or eSIM from being used by others. Each time you restart your handset or remove the SIM card, your SIM card or eSIM is automatically locked and you will see ‘SIM locked’ in the status bar.

 

You cannot automatically transfer your eSIM when you purchase a new number. Reactivate your eSIM via the My BASE app or My BASE.

You can switch your eSIM back to a physical SIM card via the My BASE app and My BASE. Log in, navigate to the tab SIM card details > Replace your SIM card and follow the instructions.

Some Apple and Samsung devices allow you to transfer data with Quick Transfer. However, you cannot use this function to transfer your eSIM to another device.

Install the My BASE app on your new device, and transfer the eSIM: More > SIM card > Transfer your eSIM to your handset.