NTC eSIM Activation: Everything You Need to Know

To activate an eSIM with Nepal Telecom (NTC), you can either choose to do it online or visit NTC office. Below are the steps for both methods, along with important information about the requirements, costs, and device compatibility.

Key Information About NTC eSIM

What is an eSIM? 

• An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that is built into your device. It removes the need for a physical SIM card. It provides the same services as a physical SIM, such as calls, texts, and data. It also simplifies switching between networks or plans.

Availability: 

• NTC introduced eSIM services in late 2022 and expanded online activation in 2025. It is available for both prepaid and postpaid customers.

Cost:

• Existing Customers: Free to upgrade from a physical SIM to an eSIM. However, the online process may charge Rs 50, and you need a minimum balance of Rs 50.

• New Customers: Rs 90 for a new eSIM, which includes Rs 10 balance and free resources, just like a physical SIM.

Supported Devices: 

• Premium smartphones, including iPhone 11 series and later, Samsung Galaxy S21 series and later, Google Pixel 4 and later, along with some mid-range devices like Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus, support eSIM. Wearables (e.g., Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch) and tablets may also support eSIM.

Step 1: Check eSIM Compatibility 
Before proceeding, confirm that your device supports eSIM:

• Open your phone’s dialer and dial *#06#.
• Check for an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number in the results. If you see it, your device supports eSIM.
• Alternatively, go to Settings > About Phone > Status Information and find the EID.
• Make sure your device is compatible with NTC’s eSIM service (e.g., iPhone 14/15/16, Samsung Galaxy S25, etc.). Note that iPhones from the US (eSIM-only) work in Nepal if they are MDMS-registered.

How to activate eSIM in Nepal Telecom (NTC)?

Option 1: Activate NTC eSIM Online

NTC offers an online activation process through its mobile app or website, which began in 2025. Keep in mind that the online process may not work for everyone. If you experience problems, visiting an NTC office is recommended.

Requirements

• An active NTC phone number with a minimum balance of Rs 50 (for the online process fee).
• Updated KYC details linked to your NTC number.
• A clear photo of your citizenship ID (front and back, max 300 KB).
• The latest version of the Nepal Telecom app (for app-based activation).
• Internet access to complete the process and download the eSIM QR code.

Steps to Activate eSIM Online

1. Access the NTC eSIM Portal:
• Via App: Download or update the Nepal Telecom app from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS). Open the app and select the eSIM option.
• Via Website: Visit https://esim.ntc.net.np on a web browser.
2. Enter Your NTC Phone Number:
• Input your 10-digit NTC mobile number that you want to convert to an eSIM.
• Click Send OTP.
3. Verify with OTP:
• You’ll receive a 6-digit OTP via SMS. Enter it and click Verify & Continue.
4. Submit Citizenship Details:
• Enter your Citizenship ID number and Issued District.
• Click Verify My Details. If verification fails, visit an NTC office to update your KYC.
5. Apply for eSIM:
• If verified, a message will appear stating Verification Successful. Click Apply for eSIM.
• Fill in additional details as prompted.
6. Upload Citizenship ID Photo:
• The app or website will prompt you to take a live photo of your citizenship ID (front and back) using your device’s camera. Hold the ID clearly and capture the image (gallery uploads are not allowed). 
• Make sure the image is clear and under 300 KB. Click Next or Submit.
7. System Review:
• The system reviews your details and citizenship ID. If everything is correct, click Submit. 
• You’ll see a Success message and a Request Pending screen while NTC verifies your request.
8. Receive and Scan QR Code:
• Once approved, NTC will send a QR code to your registered email or phone number.
• Download the QR code to install the eSIM profile on your device.
9. Install eSIM on Your Device:
1. For iOS:
• Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
• Scan the QR code provided by NTC.
• Select Add Data Plan, customize the plan name, and set NTC as the default line for calls and data.
• Click Continue and Done.
2. For Android:
• Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > SIM Card Manager.
• Tap Add Mobile Plan > Scan Carrier QR Code.
• Scan the QR code and tap Ok to activate the eSIM profile.
10. Activate VoLTE:
• Dial *444*2# to enable VoLTE (Voice over LTE) on your NTC eSIM.
• Go to your phone’s settings, enable VoLTE, and restart your device.
11. Confirmation:
• Once activated, you’ll receive an SMS from NTC stating “eSIM card Activated.” 
• Your physical SIM (if replacing) will be deactivated.

NOTES:

• The online process costs Rs 50, deducted from your phone’s balance.
• If you encounter errors (e.g., citizenship verification issues), visit an NTC office for help.
• Keep the QR code safe, as it’s needed to reinstall the eSIM on a new or reset device.

Option 2: Activate NTC eSIM at an NTC Office

If the online process fails or you prefer in-person assistance, visit a Nepal Telecom office or counter.
Requirements

• Your citizenship ID (original and a copy).
• An active NTC SIM registered in your name (for upgrades).
• A compatible eSIM-supported device.
• The original SIM owner must be present for upgrades.

Steps to Activate eSIM at an NTC Office

1. Visit an NTC Office:
• Find the nearest Nepal Telecom service center or counter (available nationwide).
2. Fill Out the Application Form:
• Request an eSIM upgrade (free for existing customers) or a new eSIM (Rs 90 for new customers).
• Complete the eSIM application form given by NTC staff.
• Submit your citizenship ID copy and present the original for verification.
3. Device Compatibility Check:
• NTC staff will check if your device supports eSIM (using the *#06# method or manual inspection).
4. Receive QR Code:
• After verification, NTC will provide a QR code (printed or digital) linked to your eSIM profile.
• Sign the form provided to confirm receipt.
5. Install eSIM on Your Device:
• Follow the same installation steps as above (iOS or Android) to scan the QR code and set up the eSIM.
6. Activate VoLTE:
• Dial *444*2#, enable VoLTE in your phone’s settings, and restart your device.
7. Confirmation:
• Activation usually takes 10 minutes. You’ll receive an SMS confirming eSIM activation.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Verification Issues: If the online system cannot verify your citizenship ID or KYC, update your details at an NTC office.
• Lost QR Code: Contact NTC customer service (dial 1498) to recover your eSIM profile or visit an NTC office.
• Device Issues: If the eSIM doesn’t work, make sure VoLTE is enabled and your device software is up to date.
• Lost Phone: Contact NTC immediately to block the eSIM. You can reinstall it on a new device using the original QR code.
• MDMS Registration: For US-bought iPhones (e.g., iPhone 14/15/16), ensure the device is registered with Nepal’s MDMS system to avoid connectivity problems.

Advantages of NTC eSIM

• No physical SIM card to damage or lose.
• Easy switching between networks or plans, perfect for travelers.
• Supports multiple eSIM profiles on one device (e.g., personal and work numbers).
• Frees up space in devices, allowing for sleeker designs or larger batteries.

FAQs

1. Can I revert to a physical SIM after switching to eSIM?
1. No, once you switch to an eSIM, you cannot go back to a physical SIM with the same number.
2. Does my US-bought iPhone work with NTC eSIM?
1. Yes, the iPhone 14/15/16 series from the US are eSIM-only and compatible with NTC eSIM, but they must be MDMS-registered.
3. How long does activation take?
1. Typically 10 minutes for in-person activation; online activation may take longer due to verification.
4. What if I face issues with the online process?
1. Visit the nearest NTC office or contact customer service at 1498.

For more details or help, visit https://esim.ntc.net.np or call NTC at 1498.