Quick answer
If your Laos eSIM has no data after landing, the most common fix is to turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM line. Then check the line is on and chosen for mobile data, turn airplane mode on and off once, and confirm the APN is unitel3g.
What should I check first?
Most problems are a setting, not the eSIM. Work through these in order.
- 1Turn off airplane mode.
- 2Make sure the Laos line is switched on.
- 3Turn on Data Roaming for the Laos line.
- 4Choose the Laos line for mobile data (Cellular Data on iPhone).
- 5Turn airplane mode on for 10 seconds, then off, so the phone searches for the network again.
- 6Restart the phone.
The line shows signal but no internet. What now?
First check Data Roaming again: on iPhone go to Settings, Cellular, the Laos line; on Samsung go to Connections, then Mobile networks; on Pixel open the SIM under Network & internet, then SIMs.
Then check the APN. On iPhone it is under the Laos line, then Cellular Data Network. On Android it is in the eSIM’s settings under Access Point Names. The APN should be unitel3g. It is usually set automatically, so only add it if it is missing.
On iPhone, also make sure Allow Cellular Data Switching is off. Otherwise the phone may keep trying your home line.
The phone shows “No Service” on the Laos line
Open the network settings for the Laos line and turn on automatic network selection, or pick Unitel manually. Wait a minute after landing; the first connection can take a little longer than usual. Away from towns and main roads, coverage is thinner, so try again once you are in town.
Data works, but I can’t make calls or send SMS
That is expected. The eSIM is data only, with no phone number, calls, or SMS. WhatsApp, Telegram, FaceTime, and other apps work over data, so you can still call and message that way. Leave your home SIM on if you need SMS or bank codes, with roaming off on it.
Still not working?
Connect to Wi-Fi and email admin@kovitel.com or message us on Telegram, with your order link and a screenshot of the SIM settings. Your QR and order details stay on your order page.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the eSIM take to connect after landing?
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Usually less than a minute after you turn off airplane mode. If nothing happens after a few minutes, check Data Roaming is on for the eSIM, toggle airplane mode, and make sure the line is chosen for mobile data.
Can I reinstall the eSIM if I deleted it?
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No. Each QR scans once. Email admin@kovitel.com or message us on Telegram with your order link if you deleted the eSIM by mistake.
Can I top up the eSIM?
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No. Plans cannot be topped up. When the data or days run out, the eSIM stops; buy a new plan, which comes with a new QR code that you install as a second eSIM.
Do I need to turn on data roaming?
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Yes, for the eSIM line only. Unitel asks for it to give the best coverage, and there is no extra charge. Keep Data Roaming off on your home SIM so your carrier does not charge you.
When do my plan days start?
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When the eSIM first connects to a network in Laos. Installing it at home the day before you fly does not use any days.
Related guides
How to install a Laos eSIM on iPhone
Scan the QR, label the line, and turn on Data Roaming.
How to install a Laos eSIM on Android (Samsung, Pixel)
Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel steps, from the same QR.
Wattay International Airport (VTE) eSIM guide
The main international airport for Vientiane, the capital.