Montenegro eSIM

Most flagship smartphones released since 2018-2019 support eSIM, including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer. Tablets, smartwatches and an increasing number of laptops also support eSIM. The fastest way to verify your specific device is to check Settings , if you see "Add eSIM" or "Add cellular plan" as an option, you're compatible.

eSIM compatibility is now standard across the high-end smartphone market and rapidly spreading into mid-range devices. Cellesim works with any unlocked, eSIM-capable device , no special configuration needed beyond scanning the QR code we send you.

iPhones with eSIM support

• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR (2018) , first iPhones with eSIM (one physical SIM + one eSIM).
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max (2019).
• iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max (2020).
• iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max (2021) , supports two active eSIMs simultaneously.
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max (2022) , US versions are eSIM-only (no physical SIM tray).
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, iPhone SE 3 and later , full eSIM support.

Google Pixel with eSIM support

• Pixel 3 / 3 XL and all later models (Pixel 4, 4a, 5, 5a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, Pixel Fold).

Samsung Galaxy with eSIM support

• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, S20 FE (2020) , first Galaxy with eSIM.
• Galaxy S21 / S22 / S23 / S24 series (all variants except some regional versions).
• Galaxy Z Fold 2, 3, 4, 5 and Z Flip 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
• Galaxy Note 20, 20 Ultra.
• Note: Some regional Samsung variants (e.g., specific Hong Kong dual-SIM physical models) may not support eSIM. Check Settings → Connections → SIM Card Manager.

Other Android devices with eSIM

• Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro and newer flagships.
• Motorola: Razr (2019+), Edge 30 series, ThinkPhone.
• Xiaomi: Mi 11 series and newer (international versions).
• OnePlus: OnePlus 11, 12 (verify region).
• Sony: Xperia 1 IV, 5 IV, 10 IV and newer.
• Nokia / HMD: G60, X30 5G.

How to verify eSIM support on your device

1. iPhone: Settings → Cellular → look for "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan". You can also dial *#06# , if you see an "EID" (32-digit number), your phone has eSIM hardware.
2. Android: Settings → Connections (or Network & Internet) → SIM Cards → look for "Download a SIM instead" or "Add eSIM".
3. EID check: most eSIM-capable Android phones show EID in Settings → About Phone → Status.

Tip: Even if your phone supports eSIM hardware, it must be unlocked (not carrier-locked) to use third-party eSIMs like Cellesim. Most phones bought outright are unlocked; phones from carrier instalment plans may require unlocking after the contract is paid off.

Almost every flagship smartphone released since 2019 supports eSIM, making it ideal for international travel. Compatible models include iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, plus a growing list of mid-range devices. If your phone has Settings → Cellular → "Add eSIM", you're ready to use a Cellesim plan abroad.

Travellers benefit most from eSIM because it eliminates the airport SIM-card queue, removes the need to swap your home SIM out, and lets you keep your usual phone number active for SMS verification. A Cellesim travel eSIM activates the moment you land , no shop visit required.

Best eSIM-compatible travel phones

• iPhone (2018+): XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 series and SE 3rd gen , all support Dual SIM with one physical SIM + one eSIM. iPhone 14/15/16 in the US is eSIM-only.
• Google Pixel (2018+): Pixel 3 through Pixel 9 , all support eSIM. Pixel 7 Pro and newer support multiple active eSIMs.
• Samsung Galaxy (2020+): S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, Note 20, Fold and Flip series.
• Motorola: Razr (2019+), Edge 30/40, ThinkPhone , most newer flagships.
• OnePlus: OnePlus 11, 12 , varies by region.
• Sony: Xperia 1 IV / V, Xperia 10 IV / V.
• Xiaomi: Mi 11 international and newer flagships.
• Nokia/HMD: G60 5G, X30 5G.

What to check before buying a travel eSIM

1. eSIM hardware: dial *#06# , if an EID number appears, you're compatible.
2. Carrier unlock status: phones bought on instalment plans may be locked to your home carrier. Most outright purchases are unlocked.
3. iOS version: iOS 12.1 or newer for full eSIM support.
4. Android version: Android 9 or newer typically supports eSIM, though it depends on the manufacturer.
5. Region-specific variants: some Samsung models sold in Hong Kong or China are dual physical SIM with no eSIM , verify your specific model number.

Travel-friendly phones that don't support eSIM

• iPhones older than XS (iPhone X, 8, 7, 6 series).
• Most budget Android phones (entry-level Samsung A series before A53, Xiaomi Redmi entry models).
• Older Huawei devices without Google Services.
• Region-specific dual physical SIM variants (verify model number).

Tip: if your current phone doesn't support eSIM but you travel often, an unlocked, mid-range eSIM-capable phone (e.g., Pixel 7a, iPhone SE 3, Samsung Galaxy A55) makes an excellent secondary travel device , pair it with a Cellesim plan and you have a full mobile internet kit for any destination.

No! This is the #1 roaming trap. Although Montenegro is in Europe and uses the Euro, it is NOT a member of the European Union (EU). Your "Roam Like at Home" (RLAH) plan does not apply. Most EU and UK carriers (like Vodafone, O2, EE, T-Mobile DE) will charge you extremely high international roaming fees (e.g., £2-£6 per day). A Cellesim eSIM is the only way to get a fixed, cheap data price. 

 This specific plan is valid only within Montenegro. This is the most important question for "Balkan Tour" travelers. If you drive from Dubrovnik (Croatia) or cross the border to Kotor, your EU SIM will stop working. Likewise, this plan will stop if you drive to Mostar (Bosnia) or Shkodër (Albania). For this, we highly recommend our Europe Regional eSIM, which covers all these countries. 

Yes, absolutely. Montenegro has an excellent 4G network. Our eSIM connects to premium local networks (like Telekom ME or One) to ensure you have a strong signal for Google Maps while driving the winding roads of the Bay of Kotor, at the beach in Budva, or hiking in Durmitor National Park (in the main town of Žabljak). 

Yes, an eSIM is much easier and more convenient than buying a local SIM card at Tivat (TIV) or Podgorica (TGD) Airport.

When you arrive at Tivat or Podgorica Airport, getting a physical "tourist SIM" typically involves several steps that can be time-consuming and frustrating after a long journey. You'll need to locate the specific kiosk, which might be tucked away or have a long queue, especially during peak travel times. A crucial step is the mandatory passport registration process, which requires presenting your ID and can add significant delays.

In contrast, an eSIM offers a completely digital solution that bypasses all these airport hassles. There's no physical card to pick up, no kiosks to find, and crucially, no ID registration required. You can purchase and install your eSIM entirely before you even depart for Montenegro. This means you'll have instant connectivity the moment your plane lands, allowing you to use maps, call a taxi, or contact loved ones without any delay or stress.

The Montenegro eSIM connects to premium Tier-1 networks like Crnogorski Telekom (T-Mobile) and One (formerly Telenor) for optimal speed and coverage.

When you're traveling in Montenegro, having reliable mobile data is key. Our eSIM is designed to connect you to the country's leading mobile operators, ensuring you get the best possible service. By partnering with these established networks, specifically Crnogorski Telekom (known internationally as T-Mobile) and One (which was formerly Telenor), you benefit from their extensive infrastructure across Montenegro.

This strategic connection means you'll consistently experience the fastest available 4G/LTE speeds. Whether you're navigating with Google Maps through Kotor, sharing your adventures on social media, or making important WhatsApp calls to family and friends, your data will be fast and dependable. These are the primary mobile operators in Montenegro, known for their strong network performance, making them ideal for eSIM users seeking seamless connectivity.

Choosing an eSIM that connects to these top-tier networks like Telekom and One ensures you avoid slower, less reliable connections, giving you peace of mind throughout your trip. You'll get the same high-quality service as local users, without the hassle of physical SIM cards.

 Most modern phones do, but you must check our specific list here: eSIM Compatible Devices to be 100% sure before purchasing. 

 Yes. Coverage is generally strong across Lake Skadar, allowing you to share videos of the pelicans and floating monasteries instantly. 

 Absolutely. Reliable data is critical for navigating the winding, narrow coastal roads between Budva and Bar safely. 

 Yes. Budva and Tivat are hubs for remote workers, and our eSIM provides stable 4G LTE speeds suitable for Zoom calls from seaside cafes. 

 Yes. You will have excellent signal while relaxing on the public beaches facing the iconic Sveti Stefan island resort.