When Does My eSIM Plan Start? Is It Upon Purchase or Activation?

When does my eSIM plan start, at the time of purchase or when I activate it?

The start time of your eSIM plan depends on the type of plan you purchase:

Data-only plans: These are not activated upon purchase. The validity period (e.g., 30 days) begins when you first use the eSIM, typically when you connect to a mobile network at your covered destination. You can purchase these plans in advance and keep them unused until you're ready to travel. Please note carefully when you first connect to a network using the data-only plan.
Bouygues Telecom plans (20GB / 60GB / 120GB, includes Data, SMS, and Voice): These are also not activated at the time of purchase. Their validity period also begins only when you first connect to a mobile network at your destination.
O2, Vodafone, and Three plans (Data, SMS, and Voice): These come fully activated upon purchase and are ready for immediate use after installation. The validity period starts right away, even if you haven’t begun using the service. These plans have a 30-day expiry period, so you should plan your purchase close to your travel date.

Always check the activation terms of the plan before purchasing to ensure it aligns with your intended travel or usage schedule.