Which carrier has eSIM in the Philippines? If you’re planning a trip to this tropical paradise, that’s probably one of the first things you’re Googling — and you’re not alone. More and more travelers want to skip the airport SIM card lines and get online the moment they land.
The good news? All three major mobile carriers in the Philippines now support eSIM — no more fumbling with tiny plastic SIMs or searching for a paperclip to open your SIM tray. Let’s break down your options and help you choose the best one for your travel style.
All Three Major Carriers Now Support eSIM
If you’re arriving in the Philippines, you’ll find eSIM available from Globe, Smart, and DITO.
Globe is one of the country’s largest mobile networks. It provides eSIM for prepaid, postpaid, and even a special Traveler eSIM for tourists. You can buy it in the GlobeOne app or at a Globe store.
Smart offers a prepaid digital eSIM that’s easy to order online. Postpaid customers can also switch their existing line to eSIM without visiting a branch.
DITO is the youngest carrier in the Philippines, and it’s quickly expanding. It sells affordable eSIM bundles and aims to cover more cities each year.
Each carrier has its strengths. Globe focuses on convenience. Smart shines in reliability. DITO attracts budget travelers looking for value.
Globe eSIM: Convenient and Tourist-Friendly
Globe’s eSIM is a favorite for travelers who want a local number and simple top-ups. You can buy and install it straight from your phone using the GlobeOne app. Once you receive the QR code, scan it, register the SIM, and you’re ready to connect.
Registration is mandatory for all Philippine SIMs, but Globe’s system is straightforward. It accepts your passport and hotel address during setup.
Globe’s network covers most major tourist destinations such as Manila, Cebu, Boracay, and Palawan. If you plan to travel around the islands, Globe is a safe choice. Just check your plan’s validity because some “unlimited” promos may include a fair-use speed limit.
For visitors who love flexibility, Globe’s Traveler eSIM is a quick fix. You can install it before you fly and activate data once you arrive.
Smart eSIM: Reliable and Great for Data-Heavy Users
Smart is the go-to network for strong 4G and 5G coverage in big cities and tourist spots. It offers a Prepaid Digital eSIM that can be purchased online. You’ll receive a QR code by email within minutes.
Installation takes only a few taps. Once added, you can load data or register for promos through Smart’s GigaLife app. The company’s PowerAll and Unli 5G plans are popular among travelers who use mobile data for work, streaming, or sharing hotspots.
Smart’s biggest advantage is speed. Travelers often praise its consistent data connection in busy areas. If you rely on video calls or upload travel content, this eSIM is worth considering.
Before buying, take a quick look at the fair-use policy. Some unlimited plans reduce speed once you reach a certain limit.
Planning to share your hotspot or upload videos? Make sure you understand how to track your data usage and top-up to avoid any surprises.
DITO eSIM: Affordable and Simple to Use
DITO is a newer carrier with a focus on affordability. Its prepaid eSIMs usually start around ₱99 and come with small data bundles that are great for short stays. You can order an eSIM through the DITO app or official website.
Because DITO’s coverage is still expanding, it works best in cities such as Manila, Cebu, and Davao. If you’re traveling to remote beaches or mountain towns, check local feedback first.
For digital nomads staying near major cities or travelers on a budget, DITO is a convenient way to stay connected without spending much.
What Travelers Are Saying Online
Travelers on Reddit and local forums have been actively sharing their experiences. Many confirm that all three carriers — Globe, Smart, and DITO — offer working eSIM options for prepaid users.
Globe earns praise for easy app activation. Smart often gets mentioned for speed and signal reliability. DITO receives compliments for price, though some users note weaker coverage in rural provinces.
One traveler summarized it perfectly: Globe for convenience, Smart for strength, and DITO for savings.
Local Carrier eSIM vs Global Travel eSIM
If you’re only visiting for a short trip, you might prefer a global travel eSIM such as Gohub. It works right after purchase, doesn’t require local registration, and covers multiple countries in Asia.
Local eSIMs from Globe, Smart, or DITO are ideal if you plan to stay longer or need a Philippine number. They allow easy reloads and access to local calls or texts.
Think of it this way. If you’re on a one-week vacation, go for Gohub to avoid the paperwork. If you’re staying for several weeks or working remotely, pick a local carrier for local rates and service.
New to Southeast Asia? Check out our first-timer’s solo travel guide to Southeast Asia for expert tips!
Checklist: How to Activate Your eSIM in the Philippines
- Make sure your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
- Buy your chosen eSIM and receive the QR code.
- On iPhone, open Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM.
On Android, go to Settings → Network & Internet → Add carrier. - Scan the QR code and install the plan.
- Turn on the new line and select it for mobile data.
- Complete the SIM registration process on the official SIM registration portal (valid for most carriers).
- Restart your phone and check signal or data connection.
- If you keep your home SIM active, disable mobile data on that line to avoid roaming charges.
That’s it. You’re ready to explore without worrying about finding Wi-Fi.
Confused about roaming fees? Here’s a quick guide to what is data roaming and how to avoid them!
Final Thoughts
So, which carrier has eSIM in the Philippines? All three do. Globe, Smart, and DITO each provide digital SIM options that fit different traveler needs.
Choose Globe if you want a smooth app-based setup. Pick Smart if you value fast and stable data. Try DITO if you’re on a tight budget and staying in the city.
And if you’d rather skip registration or local payments altogether, get a Gohub travel eSIM. It activates instantly and keeps you connected the moment you land.
No plastic cards. No waiting lines. Just easy internet access across the islands — so you can focus on beaches, volcanoes, and new adventures instead of connection bars.
FAQ – eSIM in the Philippines
- Which carrier has eSIM in the Philippines?
All three major carriers in the Philippines — Globe, Smart, and DITO — now support eSIM. You can choose between prepaid or postpaid plans and activate them easily using a QR code or mobile app. - Does Globe offer eSIM for tourists?
Yes. Globe provides eSIM for both locals and visitors. The Globe Traveler eSIM can be purchased through the GlobeOne app or at official stores. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a Philippine number and easy top-ups. - Can I buy a Smart eSIM online?
Yes. Smart’s prepaid digital eSIM is available online. After you buy it, a QR code is sent to your email. You can scan it to install and activate the eSIM within minutes, even before your flight. - Does DITO have eSIM?
Yes. DITO now offers prepaid eSIMs through its mobile app and official website. Plans usually start around ₱99, making it one of the most affordable options for travelers who only need basic data. - Do I need to register my eSIM in the Philippines?
Yes. All SIM and eSIM users, including foreign visitors, must register before activation. You’ll need a passport, Philippine address (your hotel is fine), and a selfie for identity verification. Use the SIM registration portal to start the process. - Which eSIM is best for travelers to the Philippines?
If you’re staying for a short trip, a travel eSIM from Gohub is the simplest option. It activates instantly and doesn’t require local registration. If you’re staying longer or need a local number for calls or banking, a Globe or Smart eSIM is a better fit.
