How to activate eSIM on an iPhone

Many iPhone users turn to eSIMs nowadays due to their flexibility and convenience. Unlike traditional SIM cards that require manual handling, eSIMs are built into the device and can be activated digitally.

If you’re ready to make the switch or just want to know how this technology works, this guide provides step-by-step instructions and explains this seamless solution in more detail.

For US users who already use eSIM-only iPhones, I also explain how to activate temporary travel eSIMs, which are an excellent option for staying online while abroad.

How to set up an eSIM on iPhone

There are a few options to perform a successful iPhone eSIM setup.

Option 1: use a QR code from your carrier

The first and most straightforward way to set up eSIM is to use a QR code. Here’s how to do it:

1. Contact your carrier. Before you begin, reach out to your carrier to activate your eSIM plan. They'll provide you with a QR code.
2. Open Settings. On your iPhone, tap on the Settings app.
3. Find Cellular (it may be called Mobile Service). Look for Cellular (Mobile Service) and tap on it.
4. Add eSIM. Depending on your iPhone's state, you might see Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM. Tap on whichever option appears.
5. Choose to use the QR code. You might see an option like Use QR Code. Click on it, and your camera will automatically open. Once that is done, position the QR code from your carrier in the frame. Your iPhone should automatically detect the code.
6. Activate eSIM. A notification saying Cellular Plan Detected pops up. Tap on it. You might see additional on-screen instructions. Follow them to complete the activation.
7. Wait for activation. Be patient, as activating your eSIM might take a few minutes.

Option 2: enter details manually

Another option to activate eSIM is to do everything manually. Follow these steps:

1. Contact your carrier. Similarly, as in the QR code method, get in touch with your carrier to activate your eSIM plan. This time, instead of a QR code, they'll provide specific details like: SM-DP+ address, activation code, and a link.
2. Open Settings. On your iPhone, tap on the Settings app.
3. Find Cellular. Look for Cellular and tap on it.
4. Add eSIM. Depending on your iPhone's state, you might see Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM. Tap on whichever option appears.
5. Choose manual entry. Tap on the Use QR Code option, then select Enter Details Manually at the bottom of the screen.
6. Enter carrier details. Here, you'll enter the SM-DP+ address, activation code, and confirmation code provided by your carrier. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
7. Wait for activation. Again, as in the QR code method, activating your eSIM might take a few minutes.

Option 3: use an external eSIM provider

Before you begin, keep these tips in mind:

1. Choose an external eSIM provider. Research and select a reputable external eSIM provider offering plans for your desired region or data needs. Saily, my top pick in the best eSIMs category, offers an easy setup, 24/7 support, and data plans in over 200 destinations, which is especially important when traveling.
2. Check your iPhone's compatibility. Ensure your iPhone model supports eSIM and that your carrier allows using external eSIM providers (not all carriers do).

The activation process may vary slightly depending on the provider. However, the steps should include the following or similar:

1. Purchase a plan. Visit your chosen eSIM provider's website or app and purchase a data plan for your desired region and duration.
2. Download the provider's app (if applicable). Some providers might require you to download their app to manage your eSIM plan.
3. Receive activation instructions. The provider will likely send you an activation or QR code via email or within their app.
4. Open iPhone settings. On your iPhone, tap on Settings.
5. Find Cellular (it may be called Mobile Service). Look for Cellular/Mobile Service and tap on it.
6. Add eSIM. Depending on your iPhone's state, you might see Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM. Tap on whichever option appears.
7. Choose the activation method. These are the most likely options:
   1. Using a QR code or a link. If your provider sent a QR code, scan it with your iPhone's Camera. If it’s a link, simply click on it.
   2. Entering details manually. If you received an activation code, select the option to enter details manually and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
8. Automatic activation. In the best-case scenario, with a compatible provider and phone, your eSIM should automatically activate after scanning the QR code or entering the details. You might receive a confirmation message once it's ready to use.

iPhones that support eSIM

Not all iPhones support eSIM technology. iPhones XR and later models introduced by Apple all have eSIM capability. This means older iPhones like the iPhone 6S, iPhone 7, and iPhone 8 don't have eSIM.

On the other hand, the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and the latest iPhone 16 series come in a model (US version) that only works with eSIM and doesn't have a slot for a physical SIM card. Here's a list of iPhones that generally support eSIM:

iPhone model	Number of active eSIMs supported
iPhone XS	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone XS Max	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone XR	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone 11	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone 11 Pro	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone 11 Pro Max	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone SE (2nd generation)	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone 12 mini	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone 12	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone 12 Pro	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone 12 Pro Max	Up to 2 (one physical SIM + one eSIM)
iPhone 13 mini	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 13	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 13 Pro	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 13 Pro Max	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone SE (3rd generation)	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 14	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 14 Plus	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 14 Pro	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 14 Pro Max	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 15	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 15 Plus	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 15 Pro	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 15 Pro Max	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 16	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 16 Plus	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 16 Pro	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 16 Pro Max	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)
iPhone 16e	Up to 3 (one physical SIM + two eSIMs)

Here are important things to keep in mind:

1. eSIM compatibility can vary depending on the country or region. Mobile carriers might offer eSIM services in some countries but not in others. For example, iPhones from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao do not support eSIM cards (with the exception of the iPhone SE 2020, iPhone XS, iPhone 13 mini, and iPhone 12 mini). Before switching to an eSIM, check with your carrier to see if they support it in your area.
2. Your iPhone must be unlocked to use an eSIM from a different carrier. If you're traveling internationally and want to use a local eSIM provider, make sure your iPhone is unlocked from your primary carrier. Otherwise, you might not be able to activate the eSIM.
3. Compatibility might also differ between mobile carriers. Not all carriers support eSIM technology, and even if they do, they might only offer it for certain plans or phone models. It's always best to confirm eSIM compatibility with your specific carrier.

How to transfer eSIM to a new iPhone

Moving your eSIM to a new iPhone is easy, especially if both iPhones have iOS 16 or later.

If both iPhones have iOS 16 or later

When both devices are using iOS 16 or above, proceed with these steps:

1. Turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on both iPhones
2. On your new iPhone, open Settings > Cellular/Mobile Service > Set Up Cellular/Add eSIM > Transfer From Nearby iPhone
3. On your old iPhone, you'll see on-screen instructions on how to complete the transfer. In some cases, simply tapping on Transfer is enough. Sometimes you may need to enter the verification code or scan a QR code displayed on your new iPhone
4. Wait a few minutes for the transfer to complete

For iOS 15 or earlier iPhones (only if your old iPhone is an iPhone XS or later series)

Follow the instructions below to complete activation on iOS 15 or older:

1. Back up your old iPhone (optional but recommended)
2. Set up your new iPhone completely, connect to Wi-Fi, and sign in with your Apple ID
3. Restore from your backup when prompted
4. During restore, enter the confirmation code sent to your old iPhone's number. This transfers the eSIM

How to check if eSIM is activated on iPhone

If you’re unsure whether an eSIM is activated on your iPhone, you can follow these simple steps to know for sure:

1. Open the Settings, scroll down, and tap on Cellular/Mobile Service
2. Look for the section related to SIMs or cellular plans. It might be called Cellular Plans/SIMs or just show icons representing your SIMs
3. If your eSIM is activated, you'll see it listed here. It might have a name you assigned to it, or simply show the carrier information
4. You can also tap on the eSIM itself (if listed separately) to see additional details about the plan, like signal strength, data mode, or the associated phone number

If you don't see your eSIM listed:

• It might not be activated yet. Contact your carrier to confirm the activation status or complete any necessary steps
• In some cases, the eSIM might be hidden within a main cellular plan if you have both a physical SIM and an eSIM active

How to delete eSIM from iPhone

Here are the steps to follow to delete eSIM from your iPhone:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone
2. Scroll down and tap on Cellular/Mobile Service
3. You'll see a list of cellular plans or SIMs. Locate the eSIM you want to delete
4. Tap on the eSIM
5. Look for the option to Delete eSIM. It might be worded slightly differently depending on your iOS version, but it should be clear. You might see options like Remove Cellular Plan or Delete eSIM at the bottom of the section
6. Confirm the deletion when prompted

Can I add an eSIM to a locked iPhone?

No, adding an eSIM to a locked iPhone isn't possible. Locked iPhones are restricted to their carrier's network, and adding an eSIM requires downloading a profile from a different carrier's network.

To use an eSIM with a different carrier, unlock your iPhone with your current carrier first, and then you're free to download and activate an eSIM from any compatible carrier.