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Macedonia eSIM Installation: Complete Setup Steps (2026)

9 min readBy Daniel Mercer, Lead eSIM Analyst
  • 1 network 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

Phone compatibility for Macedonia data

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. 5G eSIM requires iPhone 12 or newer.

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+. 5G on Makedonski Telekom requires Samsung S22+ or Pixel 6+.

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Providers

Best eSIM providers for Macedonia

Nomad (Recommended)

Nomad is the recommended provider for Macedonia 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 Macedonia
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 Macedonia

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., "Macedonia 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 (Stock Android)

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add eSIM
  2. Select "Scan QR code"
  3. Scan the QR code from your Nomad confirmation email
  4. Name the profile (e.g., "Macedonia 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

Makedonski Telekom APN settings for eSIM

Automatic APN configuration

Most eSIM profiles auto-configure APN settings for Makedonski Telekom'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 Makedonski Telekom's carrier defaults. Always use the values from your provider, not generic carrier APNs.

5G and LTE band selection

5G is available in Macedonia (limited coverage). To force a network type:

  • iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data > 5G Auto / LTE
  • Android: Settings > Network > Preferred network type > 5G/LTE/3G Auto

Switch to LTE-only to conserve battery in rural areas without 5G towers. 5G in Skopje only

Verification

Is your Macedonia eSIM connected

Signal and network verification

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

  • "Makedonski Telekom" 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 on Makedonski Telekom: approximately 30 Mbps download. 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 Skopje (SKP) / Ohrid (OHD) with your eSIM

Before boarding

Add your Macedonia eSIM profile 24 hours before your flight. Scan the QR code from your confirmation email while connected to stable WiFi at home. After the profile downloads, disable it immediately under Settings so the validity period does not begin. Attempting installation at Skopje (SKP) / Ohrid (OHD) over public WiFi adds unnecessary risk — the download requires a clean HTTPS connection that captive portals interrupt.

During the flight

During the flight, double-check that your Macedonia eSIM is configured as the cellular data line. Do not enable it yet. Confirm that data roaming on your home SIM is turned off to prevent accidental charges the moment airplane mode switches off after landing.

After landing

As the plane parks, switch off airplane mode. Enable the Macedonia eSIM under Settings and turn on data roaming for that specific line. Makedonski Telekom connects in 60-120 seconds. Your first notification pops up before the aisle clears. SIM counters in the arrivals hall charge a tourist premium ($5-8 for 3-5GB / 15 days) with a queue. Your eSIM is already active.

Leaving the airport

Use your Macedonia data to check exchange rates before withdrawing cash from an ATM in the arrivals hall. Compare taxi and transit prices on your phone. Having data from the moment you land turns every decision into an informed one. Macedonia's emergency number is 112 — 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 Macedonia

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 "Macedonia Data" to distinguish it from your home line.
  4. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data and select the Macedonia eSIM as your active data line.
  5. Turn on Data Roaming for the Macedonia line only: Settings > Cellular > [Macedonia Data] > Data Roaming > On.
  6. After landing at Skopje (SKP) / Ohrid (OHD), toggle the eSIM on. Makedonski Telekom registers your profile in 60-90 seconds. APN settings auto-configure for most Macedonia eSIM plans on Makedonski Telekom's network.
  7. Verify: open Safari and load any webpage. If the page renders, your Macedonia data is active at 30 Mbps average.

Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "Makedonski Telekom" or "A1 MK" with 5G/LTE signal within 60-90 seconds. On iPhone, check Settings > Cellular — the Macedonia line shows "Makedonski Telekom" under Network. If you see "5G" in the status bar, your phone has connected to Makedonski Telekom's 5G band.

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 Makedonski Telekom 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 "Macedonia Data" under SIM Manager for clarity.
  4. Set the Macedonia eSIM as your mobile data SIM: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Mobile Data > select Macedonia eSIM.
  5. Enable Data Roaming: Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Data Roaming > On (for the travel SIM only).
  6. After landing at Skopje (SKP) / Ohrid (OHD), enable the eSIM. Makedonski Telekom's 5G/LTE network registers within 60-90 seconds. APN settings load automatically for most Macedonia eSIM plans on Makedonski Telekom's network.
  7. Verify: open Chrome and load any page. Data flowing confirms your Macedonia eSIM is active.

Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "Makedonski Telekom" or "A1 MK" with 5G/LTE signal within 60-90 seconds. On Samsung, check Settings > Connections > SIM Manager — the travel SIM shows "Makedonski Telekom" as the connected network. A "5G" icon in the status bar confirms Makedonski Telekom's 5G connection.

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 Makedonski Telekom. 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 "Macedonia Data" for identification.
  4. Set as mobile data SIM: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Macedonia Data > Use for mobile data.
  5. Enable roaming: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Macedonia Data > Roaming > On.
  6. After landing at Skopje (SKP) / Ohrid (OHD), enable the profile. Makedonski Telekom connects within 60-90 seconds. APN settings self-configure on Pixel devices for most Macedonia plans.
  7. Open Chrome and load any page to verify data connectivity on Makedonski Telekom's 5G/LTE network.

Carrier confirmation: Your status bar should display "Makedonski Telekom" or "A1 MK" with 5G/LTE signal within 60-90 seconds. On Pixel, check Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs — the travel SIM displays "Makedonski Telekom" as the active network.

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

Carrier Config

Carrier troubleshooting for Macedonia

Makedonski Telekom

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 "Makedonski Telekom" from the list. The phone locks onto Makedonski Telekom's 5G/LTE band and data resumes within 30 seconds.

Expected speed: 27-30 Mbps in urban areas, 9-15 Mbps in rural coverage

Common issue: Some eSIM plans routed through Makedonski Telekom 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 Macedonia. 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. Makedonski Telekom should appear in your carrier field within 60 seconds. If it does not, use manual network selection to find and choose Makedonski Telekom directly.

A1 MK

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 "A1 MK" from the list. The phone locks onto A1 MK's 5G/LTE band and data resumes within 30 seconds.

Expected speed: 18-26 Mbps in cities, 6-12 Mbps outside metro areas

Common issue: A1 MK may show a signal bar but no data if the APN was not auto-configured. This happens on roughly 10-15% of Macedonia 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 A1 MK registration failures. Re-enable the Macedonia eSIM after the reset completes.

Dual SIM

Configure your home SIM and Macedonia eSIM together

Data line setup

Assign the Macedonia eSIM as your data-only line under Settings. Makedonski Telekom handles all internet traffic — maps, messaging apps, email, and browser. Your home SIM stays active in the background but carries zero data. This configuration prevents accidental roaming charges from your home carrier while keeping your primary number reachable.

Calls and SMS

Leave your home SIM active for voice and SMS only. Incoming calls reach you at your regular number. Outgoing calls default to the home SIM unless you select the travel line before dialing. Two-factor codes from your bank, email, and social accounts arrive via SMS on the home SIM — no interruption.

Emergency dialing

In an emergency, dial 112. The call routes through the strongest available network in Macedonia, even if your eSIM data has run out. With active data, you can also access location sharing, translate medical terms in real time, and pull up your travel insurance policy number.

Battery impact

Dual SIM uses 10-15% more power than single SIM. Both radios stay connected to their respective networks. For long days away from a charger, consider disabling the home SIM and keeping only the Macedonia eSIM on Makedonski Telekom's network. SMS verification codes can wait until you are plugged in at the hotel. Macedonia uses Type C/F power outlets.

Hotspot

Personal hotspot on Makedonski Telekom's network in Macedonia

Turn on personal hotspot to share your Macedonia eSIM data with a laptop or second device. On iPhone: Settings > Personal Hotspot > Allow Others to Join. On Samsung: Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering > Mobile Hotspot. Makedonski Telekom's 5G/LTE network delivers 18-24 Mbps typical through hotspot to connected devices. Standard web browsing on a tethered laptop uses about 60-80 MB per hour. Email with attachments adds roughly 30-50 MB per hour.

Provider restrictions

Tethering restrictions depend on the provider and plan tier, not on Macedonia's network. Fixed-data plans (1GB-20GB) from Airalo and Saily include hotspot. Unlimited plans from Holafly may restrict it. Check "Hotspot/Tethering" in the plan feature list before checkout. A grayed-out toggle in Settings means the plan blocks it server-side.

Data impact

Connected devices use data aggressively. A MacBook with open browser tabs consumes 100-300 MB/hour in background refreshes alone. Before connecting to your Macedonia hotspot, close unnecessary tabs, pause Dropbox and iCloud sync, and disable macOS/Windows automatic updates. These steps can save 1-2 GB per day of hotspot use.

Registration

Skip Macedonia's SIM registration with eSIM

Macedonia mandates identity verification for all physical SIM purchases. Passport required. The process at Skopje (SKP) / Ohrid (OHD) involves a passport copy, a form, and a wait for carrier verification — 15-30 minutes minimum. Late-night arrivals face closed counters and no connectivity until morning. A prepaid eSIM requires zero documentation and activates on Makedonski Telekom's network the moment you land.

5G

Connect to Macedonia's 5G network via eSIM

Makedonski Telekom offers limited 5G availability in select areas in Macedonia. 5G in Skopje only. Enable 5G on your eSIM: iPhone — Settings > Cellular > Voice & Data > 5G Auto. Samsung — Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Mode > select 5G. Your phone needs 5G hardware (iPhone 12+, Galaxy S21+, Pixel 5+). Expected speeds on 5G: 30 Mbps in urban areas. "5G Auto" on iPhone conserves battery by falling back to LTE when 5G speed is not needed.

WiFi Backup

Setting up eSIM in Macedonia: WiFi backup plan

WiFi in Macedonia: good WiFi in hotels, malls, and cafes. 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 Skopje (SKP) / Ohrid (OHD) 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: Macedonia + other destinations

Planning a multi-country European trip (Schengen or cross-border rail) that includes Macedonia? Install a dedicated eSIM for each country before you leave. Single-country plans connect to the primary local carrier (Makedonski Telekom in Macedonia) 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 Macedonia. Set the Macedonia eSIM as your data line and enable data roaming for that line specifically. Makedonski Telekom 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.

Slow speeds on Makedonski Telekom

Expected: 30 Mbps. If speeds are noticeably lower: toggle airplane mode on and off. Move to a different area. Try forcing LTE if 5G is congested.

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 Macedonia

FAQ

Setup questions for Macedonia eSIM

How do I install an eSIM for Macedonia on iPhone?

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

How do I install an eSIM for Macedonia on Android?

Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add eSIM. Select "Scan QR code". Scan the QR code from your provider email. Name the profile "Macedonia Data" and set it as your mobile data SIM. Steps vary slightly between Stock Android and other Android versions.

What APN settings do I need for Macedonia?

Most eSIMs auto-configure APN for Makedonski Telekom'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 Macedonia?

Yes. Install at home over WiFi any time before departure. Do not enable data roaming until you land in Macedonia. 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 Macedonia?

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 Makedonski Telekom?

Check the status bar for "Makedonski Telekom" or a roaming indicator. Run a speed test at fast.com. Expected speeds: approximately 30 Mbps. If you see "No Service," enable data roaming on the travel eSIM line.

Does Macedonia support 5G eSIM?

5G coverage in Macedonia is limited. 5G in Skopje only To use 5G, your phone must support it (iPhone 12+ or Samsung S21+) and your eSIM plan must include 5G access.

How to switch to eSIM data line for Macedonia?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Macedonia. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Makedonski Telekom as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $2.09 for 1GB.

How to set up eSIM on Samsung for Macedonia?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Macedonia. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Makedonski Telekom as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $2.09 for 1GB.

How to set up eSIM on iPad for Macedonia?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Macedonia. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Makedonski Telekom as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $2.09 for 1GB.

How to test eSIM before traveling to Macedonia?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Macedonia. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Makedonski Telekom as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $2.09 for 1GB.

How to fix eSIM connection in Macedonia?

See the step-by-step instructions above for Macedonia. Install the eSIM via QR code over WiFi, configure Makedonski Telekom as your data line, and enable data roaming after landing. Plans from $2.09 for 1GB.

Related guides

Compare Macedonia eSIM plans

Provider pricing and network analysis

Travel guide for Macedonia

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 Europe destinations

eSIM plans across the region

Nearby destinations

Get your Macedonia data sorted. 5 minutes, no counter.

Nomad: from $1.42/GB on Makedonski Telekom. Install at home, activate on arrival.

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