Can I use an eSIM on a locked phone?

Many people wonder if they can use an eSIM on a locked phone, especially when they want to switch carriers or travel internationally. eSIMs are usually more flexible, affordable, and widely available in global destinations, so it’s no wonder they’re popular among many travelers or those who want a better deal.

An eSIM is a digital version of a physical SIM card. It allows you to easily switch between carriers without taking out the old SIM card and putting in a new one each time. On the other hand, a locked phone is tied to one carrier, meaning it won’t accept SIM cards or eSIM profiles from other network providers.

So, can you use an eSIM on a locked phone? While locked phones do limit your ability to use an eSIM, they don’t completely prevent it. Certain steps might allow you to use an eSIM on a locked phone. In this guide, I’ll show you when it’s possible and how to make it work.

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How to check if your phone is locked?

You don’t have to be a tech expert to figure out if your phone is locked to a certain carrier. It is easier than you might think. I’ll walk you through the steps for both iPhone and Samsung models.

For iPhone

1. Open Settings
2. Click on General
3. Select About
4. Scroll down and look for Carrier Lock or Network Provider Lock

• If you see "No SIM restrictions," your iPhone is unlocked. This means you can use it with any network provider, including an eSIM from any carrier.
• If you see a carrier name listed instead, your phone is locked to that network. This means you can only use a physical SIM or eSIM by that particular carrier on your device.

Note: Some newer iPhones, especially those bought on installment plans and carrier-specific iPhone upgrade programs, might still be locked even if you paid upfront. Always double-check terms and conditions before purchasing.

For Samsung

1. Open Settings
2. Tap Connections
3. Choose Mobile Networks
4. Tap Network Operators

Let your phone look for available networks.

• If you only see one carrier, or if your phone doesn't let you select another, your Samsung is likely locked.
• If you see a list of different networks you can choose from, your phone is unlocked.

Note: Some Samsung models may not give you a clear “locked/unlocked” message. Another way to check is to try a SIM card from a different network provider. If it works, your device is unlocked. If it shows "error" or "no service," your phone is locked.

Before you travel or buy an eSIM, find out if your phone has a carrier lock. It will save you a lot of confusion and money and potentially prevent you from being disconnected when you travel abroad. Better yet, take a look at your phone settings right now to get this issue out of the way.

Why is it important to connect to new networks?

When you land in a new country, you shouldn't lose two things: your travel documents and the ability to connect with the local network. I've learned that the hard way. You don’t want to show up in a new country with no phone signal just because your phone is stuck with one carrier that doesn't have coverage in that country.

Travel eSIMs are built to make life easier. Many of them, like those from Nomad eSIM, can connect to up to three different mobile networks in your visiting country. If one network has a weak signal in your immediate area (like at the airport), the eSIM will switch to a stronger network so you stay connected throughout your trip.

All you need to do is switch on “Automatic” network selection, and your phone will find the best signal and switch automatically. But if your phone is locked to a specific carrier, you will be stuck with one network, even if it has the worst signal.

Moreover, staying connected with a dedicated travel eSIM instead of your regular carrier will likely save you tons of money. For example, Nomad eSIM offers a free 500Mbps trial eSIM in 47 destinations. Meanwhile, your local carrier will charge roaming fees straight away, especially if you didn’t commit to a temporary international plan before your trip.

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How to use eSIM with a locked phone?

Back to the question, "Can you use an eSIM on a locked phone?" An eSIM from a different carrier will not work on a phone locked to a specific carrier. You'll need to unlock your device to use eSIMs from other carriers. Here's how :

1. Contact the carrier: Go to Settings on your phone and check under About to find your network provider’s name. Then, contact their customer support.
2. Request the phone unlock: Ask them to unlock your device. Some carriers may have rules, like needing your phone to be fully paid off or used on their network for a certain time.
3. Check for any unlocking fees: Some carriers unlock for free, while others may charge. It depends on your plan.
4. Using eSIM after unlocking: Once unlocked, you can install your eSIM, like Nomad, pick a network, and enjoy more freedom.

The whole unlocking process requires some little effort, no doubt. But if you travel often or want better data deals, it’s totally worth it.