Skip to content
PrepaideSIMFind Prepaid Plans
Iraq flagSetup Guide

Iraq eSIM Installation: Complete Setup Steps (2026)

9 min readBy Daniel Mercer, Lead eSIM Analyst
  • 2 networks tested
  • 5 providers compared
  • Updated June 2026

Daniel Mercer

Lead eSIM Analyst

43 countries tested280 plans reviewed14 airports tested8 years in telecom

Previously at Analysys Mason covering APAC mobile markets (2016-2021)

How we test

Published July 2026 · Updated June 2026

Compatibility

Compatible devices for Iraq eSIM

iPhone

Supported models: iPhone XR, XS, 11 through 16 Pro Max, and SE (3rd generation). Requires iOS 16 or later. iPhones hold up to 8 eSIM profiles with 2 active simultaneously. Check carrier lock: Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock.

Android

Supported: Samsung Galaxy S21 and later (S22-S25, Z Flip/Fold series), Google Pixel 3+, Xiaomi 12T Pro and later. Requires Android 10 or later. eSIM profile limits vary: Samsung holds 5-8 profiles, Pixel supports 8+.

Is your phone unlocked?

[object Object]

Full device compatibility list · Check carrier unlock status

Providers

Best eSIM providers for Iraq

Nomad (Recommended)

Nomad is the recommended provider for Iraq with a 4.1/5 rating. Best Budget pick. Plans available: 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB plus unlimited daily options. Installation via QR code delivered by email.

8.2/ 10Overall

Install: 4.2/5 · QR Flow: 4/5

Docs: 3.9/5 · Reliability: 4.2/5

Nomad full review

Alternative providers

eSIM providers for Iraq
ProviderPer GBRatingBest For
Nomad#1 Pickfrom $3.00/GB4.1/5Best Budget
Airalofrom $4.50/GB4.5/5Best Overall
Sailyfrom $3.99/GB4.4/5Best Privacy
HelloRoamfrom around $3.50 per gigabyte4.4/5Coverage + Value
Holaflyfrom $2.99/day4.3/5Best Unlimited

Which provider to choose

  • Budget travel: Nomad offers the lowest per-GB rate
  • Broadest coverage: Airalo covers 200+ countries on one account
  • Unlimited data: Holafly removes the data counter entirely
  • Privacy: Saily bundles NordVPN under the same account

Installation

How to set up the eSIM for Iraq

iOS installation (iPhone)

  1. Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
  2. Select "Use QR Code"
  3. Scan the QR code from your Nomad confirmation email
  4. Label the plan (e.g., "Iraq Travel")
  5. Set as cellular data line (not your default for calls)
  6. Do NOT enable data roaming yet
  7. Confirm the plan appears under Settings > Cellular

iOS 18: the "Add eSIM" option appears under Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. iOS 17 and earlier: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.

Android installation (Google Pixel)

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Add eSIM
  2. Select "Download a SIM instead" then scan
  3. Scan the QR code from your Nomad confirmation email
  4. Name the profile (e.g., "Iraq Data")
  5. Set as mobile data SIM
  6. Do NOT enable data roaming yet
  7. Verify the plan in SIM manager

Manual installation (if QR fails)

If the QR code does not scan, use manual entry:

  1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
  2. Select "Enter Details Manually"
  3. Enter the SM-DP+ address from your provider email
  4. Enter the activation code
  5. Complete the setup as with the QR method

Use manual entry when: camera cannot read the QR code, the email was forwarded without the image, or you are installing on a second device.

Configuration

Network settings for Korek

Automatic APN configuration

Most eSIM profiles auto-configure APN settings for Korek's network. After installation, verify the APN is set correctly:

  • iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Cellular Data Network
  • Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > (travel eSIM) > Access Point Names

A correctly configured APN shows the carrier name and data type. If the APN field is blank, your phone will attempt to auto-fill on first connection.

Manual APN entry

If auto-configuration fails (rare, typically older Android devices), enter APN settings manually. Check your provider's confirmation email for the exact values. Common fields:

APN configuration fields
FieldValue
APN NameFrom provider email
APNProvider-specific value
AuthenticationNone (most providers)
APN ProtocolIPv4/IPv6

Provider-specific APN values override Korek's carrier defaults. Always use the values from your provider, not generic carrier APNs.

Verification

Is your Iraq eSIM connected

Signal and network verification

Check your status bar: the carrier name should show Korekor a roaming indicator. Signal bars confirm connection strength. Go to Settings > Cellular to verify data usage is counting on the travel eSIM line.

  • "Korek" or roaming icon: Connected and working
  • "Searching...": Still connecting, wait 2-3 minutes
  • "No Service": Data roaming is off or wrong SIM line selected

Speed test

Run fast.com or Speedtest.net to verify your connection speed. Expected speeds: 4G LTE (LTE typically 20-80 Mbps, 5G 100-500 Mbps where available). Speeds vary by location: airports and city centers are fastest, rural areas slower.

Verifying data roaming is active

Go to Settings > Cellular > (travel eSIM) > Data Roaming: ON. Test by opening any website in your browser. If it loads, roaming is active. If not, toggle data roaming off and back on, then restart your phone.

Dual-SIM verification

Confirm your home SIM still receives calls and texts. Confirm the travel eSIM handles all data traffic. Test: send yourself a text message to your home number. Then load a webpage. Both should work simultaneously. If data routes through the home SIM instead, switch your cellular data line to the travel eSIM.

Airport Guide

Arriving at Iraq's main airport with your eSIM

Before boarding

Your Iraq eSIM installs in under two minutes. Do it the evening before departure over home WiFi. The profile stays dormant until you toggle it on after landing. Waiting until Iraq's main airport creates two risks: captive portal WiFi blocking the download, and jet-lag mistakes during the Settings flow. Handle it while you are alert and connected.

During the flight

The flight is your final prep window. Go to Settings, confirm the Iraq eSIM is listed and set as the data line, and verify your home SIM's data roaming is off. After landing, one toggle connects you to Korek's 4G network. If you have not installed a VPN yet, do it now over in-flight WiFi — Iraq restricts VoIP services, and downloading a VPN app after landing may not work.

After landing

When the plane reaches the gate, disable airplane mode. The Iraq eSIM connects to Korek within 60-90 seconds. Open Safari or Chrome and load any page — if it renders, your data is active. SIM counter availability at Iraq's main airport varies by terminal and time of day. Your eSIM eliminates that variable entirely.

Leaving the airport

Head straight to ground transport. Your maps app already has signal on Korek's network. Book a ride from the terminal or follow transit directions without asking for WiFi passwords at an information desk. Iraq's emergency number is 104/115/122 — it works without data, but having your eSIM active means you can also share GPS coordinates with emergency services.

Device Setup

Device-specific instructions for Iraq

iPhone (iOS 17+)

  1. Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code.
  2. Point the camera at the QR code from your provider's email. The profile downloads in 5-15 seconds on stable WiFi.
  3. Tap "Add Cellular Plan" when prompted. Label the plan "Iraq Data" to distinguish it from your home line.
  4. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data and select the Iraq eSIM as your active data line.
  5. Turn on Data Roaming for the Iraq line only: Settings > Cellular > [Iraq Data] > Data Roaming > On.
  6. After landing at Iraq's main airport, toggle the eSIM on. Korek registers your profile in 60-90 seconds. APN settings auto-configure for most Iraq eSIM plans on Korek's network.
  7. Verify: open Safari and load any webpage. If the page renders, your Iraq data is active at 4G LTE speeds.

Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "Korek" or "Asiacell" with 4G signal within 60-90 seconds. On iPhone, check Settings > Cellular — the Iraq line shows "Korek" under Network. The "4G" indicator confirms your connection type.

Note: If the carrier field shows "No Service" after 2 minutes, go to Settings > Cellular > Network Selection, turn off Automatic, wait 10 seconds, then turn it back on. If Korek does not appear in the list, restart your iPhone (hold Side + Volume Down for 3 seconds, slide to power off, wait 30 seconds, power on).

Samsung Galaxy (One UI 6+)

  1. Open Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM.
  2. Select "Scan QR Code" and frame the QR code from your provider's email. The download completes in 5-15 seconds.
  3. Tap "Add" when the carrier profile loads. Label it "Iraq Data" under SIM Manager for clarity.
  4. Set the Iraq eSIM as your mobile data SIM: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Mobile Data > select Iraq eSIM.
  5. Enable Data Roaming: Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Data Roaming > On (for the travel SIM only).
  6. After landing at Iraq's main airport, enable the eSIM. Korek's 4G network registers within 60-90 seconds. APN settings load automatically for most Iraq eSIM plans on Korek's network.
  7. Verify: open Chrome and load any page. Data flowing confirms your Iraq eSIM is active.

Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "Korek" or "Asiacell" with 4G signal within 60-90 seconds. On Samsung, check Settings > Connections > SIM Manager — the travel SIM shows "Korek" as the connected network. The connection type shows as "4G".

Note: If "No Service" persists after 2 minutes, go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators, switch from Automatic to Manual, wait for the scan to complete, then select Korek. If the carrier does not appear, restart the device: hold Power + Volume Down until the restart menu appears.

Google Pixel (Android 14+)

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Download SIM.
  2. Scan the QR code from your eSIM provider's email. The profile downloads in under 15 seconds.
  3. Confirm the download and label the SIM "Iraq Data" for identification.
  4. Set as mobile data SIM: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Iraq Data > Use for mobile data.
  5. Enable roaming: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Iraq Data > Roaming > On.
  6. After landing at Iraq's main airport, enable the profile. Korek connects within 60-90 seconds. APN settings self-configure on Pixel devices for most Iraq plans.
  7. Open Chrome and load any page to verify data connectivity on Korek's 4G network.

Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "Korek" or "Asiacell" with 4G signal within 60-90 seconds. On Pixel, check Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs — the travel SIM displays "Korek" as the active network.

Note: If the signal does not register within 2 minutes, go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Iraq Data > Advanced > Choose network, switch to Manual, let the scan run, and select Korek. If it fails, reset network settings under Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Mobile, WiFi & Bluetooth.

Carrier Config

Carrier troubleshooting for Iraq

Korek

Network selection: Open Settings > Cellular > Network Selection (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators (Samsung). Turn off Automatic. Wait 10-30 seconds for the carrier list to populate. Select "Korek" from the list. The phone locks onto Korek's 4G band and data resumes within 30 seconds.

Expected speed: Fastest 4G speeds in Iraq's urban areas

Common issue: Some eSIM plans routed through Korek require data roaming to be enabled on the travel SIM line specifically. Leaving it off is the most common reason travelers report zero signal after landing in Iraq. Check under Settings > Cellular > [Travel eSIM] > Data Roaming.

Resolution: Toggle airplane mode on for 15 seconds, then off. This forces a fresh network scan without a full restart. Korek should appear in your carrier field within 60 seconds. If it does not, use manual network selection to find and choose Korek directly.

Asiacell

Network selection: Open Settings > Cellular > Network Selection (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators (Samsung). Turn off Automatic. Wait 10-30 seconds for the carrier list to populate. Select "Asiacell" from the list. The phone locks onto Asiacell's 4G band and data resumes within 30 seconds.

Expected speed: Reliable 4G coverage across Iraq's main cities

Common issue: Asiacell may show a signal bar but no data if the APN was not auto-configured. This happens on roughly 10-15% of Iraq eSIM activations. Contact your eSIM provider for the correct APN string.

Resolution: Reset network settings: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset Network Settings (iPhone) or Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings (Samsung). This clears saved WiFi passwords but resolves most Asiacell registration failures. Re-enable the Iraq eSIM after the reset completes.

Zain IQ

APN: "zain" — enter under Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names (Samsung). Leave username, password, and proxy fields blank. Save and restart data.

Network selection: Open Settings > Cellular > Network Selection (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators (Samsung). Turn off Automatic. Wait 10-30 seconds for the carrier list to populate. Select "Zain IQ" from the list. The phone locks onto Zain IQ's 4G band and data resumes within 30 seconds.

Expected speed: Reliable 4G coverage across Iraq's main cities

Common issue: If Zain IQ connects but web pages time out, the phone may have defaulted to your home SIM for data. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data and confirm the Iraq eSIM is selected. The home SIM handles calls only.

Resolution: Contact your eSIM provider's support with the SM-DP+ activation address from your confirmation email. Some Zain IQ profile issues require a new QR code. Airalo responds via in-app chat in under 5 minutes; Holafly offers WhatsApp support at +34 644 44 37 97.

Dual SIM

Set up dual SIM before landing in Iraq

Data line setup

Configure the Iraq eSIM as primary data: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data. Korek provides 4G coverage across Iraq's main areas. Turn off "Allow Cellular Data Switching" so the phone never reverts to your home carrier for data. That single toggle prevents the most common cause of unexpected roaming bills during travel.

Calls and SMS

Keep your home SIM active for incoming calls and SMS. Your phone number stays reachable, and two-factor authentication codes from banks and services arrive normally via text. Outgoing calls use your home number unless you manually switch to the Iraq line. For voice calls over data — WhatsApp, FaceTime, Telegram — those route through the eSIM's data connection on Korek. Note: Iraq restricts VoIP services. Install a VPN before departure to use voice-over-data apps.

Emergency dialing

Dial 104/115/122 from your phone at any time — emergency calls bypass SIM restrictions and connect through any available network in Iraq. Having the eSIM active adds the ability to share live location, look up hospital addresses, and contact your embassy through data-based channels.

Battery impact

Expect 10-15% faster battery drain with two active SIM lines. Your phone maintains two radio connections simultaneously. If battery life matters during a long day, disable the home SIM and rely on the Iraq eSIM for everything including WhatsApp and iMessage. Re-enable the home SIM at night for any pending SMS codes. Carry a Type C/D/G adapter for charging in Iraq.

Hotspot

Using personal hotspot in Iraq on eSIM data

Sharing data via hotspot is straightforward on most Iraq eSIM plans. Enable Personal Hotspot in Settings and connect your laptop or tablet. Korek's 4G network provides 4G speeds through hotspot, slightly below direct device connection to tethered devices. USB tethering offers the most stable connection and charges your phone simultaneously — a practical choice for hotel work sessions. WiFi tethering suits quick connections at cafes or airports.

Provider restrictions

Some budget eSIM plans block hotspot at the carrier level. If personal hotspot is grayed out in Settings, your plan does not include it. Contact your provider before departure to confirm tethering is supported. Airalo and Saily include hotspot on most plans. Holafly's unlimited plans restrict tethering on some Iraq data packages — check the plan details page before purchase.

Data impact

Data drains faster through hotspot. Desktop browsers load full-resolution images and scripts that mobile browsers skip. Expect 150-200 MB per hour for browsing, 1.5-3 GB per hour for video, and 300-500 MB per hour for video calls. Disable auto-play videos and pause cloud backups on any device connected to your Iraq eSIM hotspot.

VPN

Iraq VoIP restrictions: VPN required before departure

VoIP services do not work on Korek's network in Iraq without a VPN. WhatsApp calls, FaceTime, Telegram voice, and Skype are all affected. Text chat and media sharing in these apps function normally — the block targets real-time audio and video streams only. Install a VPN before you board: NordVPN or ExpressVPN are reliable in Iraq. Surfshark offers a budget option. Test the connection at home to confirm your subscription is active. Do not wait until arrival — VPN app downloads may be blocked on Iraq's network.

VPN use for personal privacy is generally legal

Affected apps: Blocked: WhatsApp calling, FaceTime, Skype, Zoom (audio), Google Duo/Meet, Viber, Telegram calls, Discord voice. Working without VPN: text chat, photo/video sharing, voice messages (pre-recorded), document transfer in WhatsApp/Telegram/iMessage.

WiFi Backup

Setting up eSIM in Iraq: WiFi backup plan

WiFi in Iraq: moderate WiFi in urban areas; spotty in rural regions. eSIM installation requires a brief WiFi connection for the QR code scan (under 1 MB of data). Hotel WiFi works, but home WiFi before departure is the safest option. Captive portals at Iraq's main airport and public hotspots sometimes block the carrier server the eSIM download needs.

Activating without WiFi

Manual activation fallback: every eSIM order includes an SM-DP+ server address and an activation code in the confirmation email. Instead of scanning the QR code, enter these values manually. iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Enter Details Manually. Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM > Enter Code. This works over any data connection, including your home carrier's mobile data. The transfer is under 1 MB.

Multi-Country

Managing eSIM profiles: Iraq + other destinations

Planning a multi-country itinerary that includes Iraq? Install a dedicated eSIM for each country before you leave. Single-country plans connect to the primary local carrier (Korek in Iraq) and deliver better speeds than regional eSIMs that route through roaming agreements. Your phone holds up to 8 eSIM profiles — switching between them at each border takes 30 seconds. Label each profile with the country name for quick identification.

Switching eSIM profiles between countries

Switching eSIMs at the border: go to Settings, find your SIM/eSIM list, turn off the previous country's profile, and enable Iraq. Set the Iraq eSIM as your data line and enable data roaming for that line specifically. Korek picks up within 60-90 seconds. Keep all other profiles saved — they occupy no data until re-enabled.

Fixes

Common problems and fixes

"eSIM Not Supported" error

Cause: Your phone is carrier-locked or the model does not support eSIM.

Fix: Contact your home carrier to unlock (24-72 hours). Verify your model supports eSIM at our compatibility list.

"Unable to Activate eSIM" error

Cause: eSIM profile slot is full, or the QR code was already redeemed.

Fix:Delete unused eSIM profiles in Settings > Cellular. iPhones hold 8 profiles (2 active). If the QR shows as used, contact your provider for a replacement code.

Connected but no data

Cause: Data roaming is off on the travel eSIM, or data is routing through the home SIM.

Fix:Settings > Cellular > select travel eSIM > Data Roaming ON. Also verify: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > select the travel eSIM as your data line. Restart your phone after making changes.

VPN configuration after setup

VPN access in Iraq is restricted. Some VPN protocols work, others are throttled or blocked. The situation changes periodically — what worked last month may not work today. Install your VPN app and test it before you travel. Saily, from the team behind NordVPN, bundles VPN protection with its eSIM plans — a practical option for travelers who want data and privacy under one account. Use VPN over cellular rather than public WiFi for better reliability. Your prepaid eSIM on 4G LTE provides the stable connection a VPN needs to maintain its tunnel.

Provider-specific installation issues

  • Airalo: QR code in email and in-app. Re-download available in the app under "My eSIMs"
  • Nomad: QR delivered by email only. Check spam folder. No app required for installation
  • Holafly: QR code in app and email. Unlimited plans activate on first connection
  • Saily: QR in app. VPN configuration separate from eSIM setup

Full troubleshooting guide · Transfer eSIM to new phone

Quick Answers

Common setup questions for Iraq

FAQ

Top setup questions for Iraq

How do I install an eSIM for Iraq on iPhone?

Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code. Scan the code from your provider email. Label the plan "Iraq Travel" and set it as your cellular data line. The process takes about 5 minutes over WiFi.

How do I install an eSIM for Iraq on Android?

Open Settings > Network & Internet > Add eSIM. Select "Download a SIM instead" then scan. Scan the QR code from your provider email. Name the profile "Iraq Data" and set it as your mobile data SIM. Steps vary slightly between Google Pixel and other Android versions.

What APN settings do I need for Iraq?

Most eSIMs auto-configure APN for Korek's network. If auto-config fails, check your provider's confirmation email for manual APN values. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Cellular Data Network to verify or enter settings manually.

Can I install the eSIM before my trip to Iraq?

Yes. Install at home over WiFi any time before departure. Do not enable data roaming until you land in Iraq. Plans count from the first network connection, not from installation. Installing early is recommended.

How many eSIM profiles can my phone hold?

iPhone holds up to 8 eSIM profiles with 2 active simultaneously. Android varies by manufacturer: Samsung supports 5-8, Google Pixel supports 8+. Delete unused profiles in Settings > Cellular to make room for new ones.

What if the QR code does not work for Iraq?

Use manual activation: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Enter Details Manually. Find the SM-DP+ address and activation code in your provider email. This method works when the camera cannot read the QR code or when using a forwarded email.

How do I know my eSIM is connected to Korek?

Check the status bar for "Korek" or a roaming indicator. Run a speed test at fast.com. Expected speeds: 4G LTE speeds. If you see "No Service," enable data roaming on the travel eSIM line.

How to set up eSIM on iPad for Iraq?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Iraq. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Korek as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $4.14 for 1GB.

How to test eSIM before traveling to Iraq?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Iraq. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Korek as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $4.14 for 1GB.

How to fix eSIM connection in Iraq?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Iraq. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Korek as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $4.14 for 1GB.

How to add eSIM without QR code for Iraq?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Iraq. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Korek as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $4.14 for 1GB.

How many eSIMs can I have for Iraq?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Iraq. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Korek as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $4.14 for 1GB.

Related guides

Compare Iraq eSIM plans

Provider pricing and network analysis

Travel guide for Iraq

Pre-departure, activation, data tips

General activation guide

Step-by-step eSIM activation

Dual-SIM setup

Use both SIMs simultaneously

Remove old eSIM profiles

Free up eSIM slots on your phone

More Middle East destinations

eSIM plans across the region

Nearby destinations

Buy and install your Iraq eSIM. 5 minutes, no counter.

Nomad: from $2.55/GB on Korek. Install at home, activate on arrival.

Browse plans