Key Summary: What you need to know
- Direct eSIM transfer only works when both iPhones are physically present and running iOS 16+
- After transfer, always delete the eSIM from your old iPhone for security
- Some carriers (Jio, Airtel, Vi) require identity verification before transferring
- eSIM cannot be active on two devices simultaneously
- If your old phone is broken or lost, you must contact your carrier directly
Switching to a new iPhone is exciting but there is one task that confuses almost everyone: what happens to your eSIM?
Unlike a physical SIM card that you can simply pop out and slide into your new device, an eSIM (Embedded SIM) is locked inside your phone's hardware. You cannot physically move it.
Whether you are upgrading from an iPhone 13 to an iPhone 16, replacing a cracked phone, or handing down your old device to a family member, this guide walks you through every possible method to transfer your eSIM, step by step.
"eSIM makes your phone slimmer and more secure, but it demands a slightly different approach when switching devices. Once you know the method, it takes only minutes."
Understanding eSIM Basics
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a digital SIM card built directly into your iPhone's motherboard.
Instead of a tiny plastic chip, your carrier information is stored as a secure software profile. You can activate it, delete it, and reactivate it, all without touching any physical hardware.
Which iPhones support eSIM?
eSIM is supported on iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR (2018) and every model released after. The iPhone 14 series and later (in the US) are eSIM-only — they do not have a physical SIM card tray at all. International models of iPhone 14 and later still include a physical SIM tray alongside eSIM support.
iPhones in India (iPhone 14 and later) support both physical SIM and eSIM simultaneously. You can store up to 8 eSIM profiles but only activate 2 at a time.
eSIM Transfer vs eSIM Activation: What is the difference?
Transfer moves your existing active plan from one device to another. Activation is when you set up an eSIM for the very first time on a device. This guide focuses on transfer — moving a plan you already have.
Before You Start: Pre-Transfer Checklist
A failed eSIM transfer can temporarily leave you without a working number. Take two minutes to verify the following before you begin:
- Both iPhones are charged above 50% (or plugged in)
- Both devices are on iOS 16 or later (for direct transfer method)
- Your carrier supports eSIM transfer (most do — verify via their app or website)
- Both iPhones are unlocked (not locked to a different carrier)
- You have your Apple ID and password ready
- Back up your old iPhone to iCloud or your computer before starting
- Both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network
If your carrier does not support direct eSIM transfer, you will need to go through them — jump to Method 2. Not all prepaid plans support eSIM transfer without a store visit.
The 4 Methods to Transfer Your eSIM
Direct iPhone-to-iPhone Transfer Fastest
Requires both iPhones physically present · iOS 16 or later on bothThis is the easiest and fastest method, introduced in iOS 16. Apple handles the entire transfer process — no carrier call, no QR codes, no waiting. You just need both iPhones in hand and a few minutes.
This option appears automatically when you set up a new iPhone for the first time. If you have already set up your new iPhone, you can still trigger it manually.
Setting up a new iPhone (first-time setup)
- Turn on your new iPhone and begin the setup process. Place your old iPhone nearby.
- When prompted, choose Transfer from iPhoneand follow the on-screen steps to bring the two phones close together.
- Sign in with your Apple ID on the new iPhone. The setup wizard will detect eSIM plans on your old device.
- You will see a prompt asking if you want to transfer your cellular plan. Tap Transfer.
- On your old iPhone, a notification will appear asking you to approve the transfer. Tap Allow.
- Wait for the transfer to complete — this usually takes 1–5 minutes. Your new iPhone will now show your carrier and signal bars.
- Make a test call to confirm everything is working.
Already set up your new iPhone? Do this instead
- On your new iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM.
- SelectTransfer from Nearby iPhone.
- Follow the prompts — place both phones close together.
- Approve the transfer on your old iPhone when prompted.
If you do not see "Transfer from Nearby iPhone", it means your carrier does not support this feature. Use Method 2 instead.
Transfer via Your Carrier Universal Fallback
Works for all carriers · May take up to 24 hours
If the direct transfer does not work, or your carrier requires authorization, you will need to go through them.
This method works even if your old phone is damaged — as long as you can verify your identity and account details.
What you will need
- Your mobile number
- The IMEI number of your new iPhone (Settings → General → About)
- Government-issued ID (for Indian carriers)
- Registered email address on your carrier account
Steps
- Contact your carrier via their official app, website, or customer care number.
- Verify your identity by answering security questions or providing your account details.
- Request an eSIM transfer or re-issue to your new device's EID/IMEI.
- The carrier will deactivate the eSIM on your old device and send you a new QR code or activation link via email or SMS.
- On your new iPhone: go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code Scan the code provided by your carrier.
- Your new eSIM activates within a few seconds to a few hours depending on your carrier.
Some carriers limit the number of eSIM transfers per year — typically 2 to 3. Check your carrier's fair-use policy to avoid issues.
Scan a QR Code
If you still have the original QR code from your carrier
When you first activated your eSIM, your carrier likely sent you a QR code via email or printed it on a form.
If you still have access to that QR code-and it has not already been used — you may be able to use it to set up your eSIM on a new device.
Important: eSIM QR codes are typically single-use. If the profile was already activated on your old phone, this code will no longer work. In that case, contact your carrier for a new one (Method 2).
- Locate the original QR code email from your carrier, or log in to your carrier's account portal to download a fresh one.
- On your new iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM.
- Tap Use QR Code. Your camera will open.
- Point the camera at the QR code. The eSIM profile details will appear on screen.
- Tap Continue and then Add Cellular Plan to complete activation.
- Restart your iPhone and verify you have signal.
Manual Entry via Activation Code
When QR code is unavailable · Carrier provides a code
If you cannot scan a QR code (for example, your only device is your new iPhone and the QR code is only accessible on your old broken one), your carrier can provide you with an SM-DP+ address and activation code to enter manually.
- Contact your carrier and request an eSIM activation code for your new device.
- They will give you an SM-DP+ address (looks like a web address) and an Activation Code (a long alphanumeric string).
- On your new iPhone: go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Enter Details Manually.
- Type or paste the SM-DP+ address in the first field and the activation code in the second field.
- Tap Next. The iPhone will contact the carrier's server and download your eSIM profile.
- Tap Add Cellular Plan and wait for activation. Restart your iPhone to finalize.
Activation codes are case-sensitive. Copy them exactly as provided. A single typo will result in an error.
What Happens to the eSIM on Your Old iPhone?
This is something many people overlook and it matters both for security and for resale value.
When you use the direct transfer method, iOS automatically deactivates and removes the eSIM from your old device.
However, when you go through a carrier or QR code method, the old profile may remain on your old phone even after the new one is active.
Always manually remove the eSIM from your old iPhone after transferring. Here is how:
- On your old iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular.
- Tap on the eSIM plan you want to remove.
- Scroll down and tap Delete eSIM.
- Confirm the deletion. The plan is now removed from that device.
If you plan to sell or give away your old iPhone, also go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings. This ensures no personal data or eSIM profile remains.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Likely Cause | Fix |
|
Transfer option not showing |
iOS version too old or carrier does not support direct transfer | Update both iPhones to iOS 16+. If still missing, use Method 2 |
| "Unable to complete transfer" error | Network glitch or carrier server issue | Restart both phones. Try again after 5 minutes. Contact carrier if persistent |
| eSIM still showing on old phone | Auto-removal did not happen (carrier method) | Manually delete from Settings → Cellular on old device |
| QR code says "already activated" | QR code was single-use and already consumed | Request a fresh QR code from your carrier (Method 2) |
| No signal after transfer | Carrier network not yet updated | Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Reset Network Settings. Wait up to 30 minutes |
| Activation code not working | Typo in code or code has expired | Re-check each character. Request a new code if expired (they typically last 24–48 hours) |
|
New iPhone says device is locked |
New iPhone is carrier-locked to a different carrier | Contact the carrier that locked the device and request an unlock before transfer |
Important Things to Keep in Mind
Transfer limits
Most carriers allow between 2 and 5 eSIM transfers per year per account. Exceeding this may require a store visit or identity re-verification. If you are someone who swaps devices frequently, check your carrier's policy in advance.
International restrictions
If you are travelling abroad and want to transfer to a local eSIM, check if your iPhone is unlocked for international use. iPhones purchased in India may still be unlocked for global carriers, but always verify with your carrier before travelling.
Dual SIM after transfer
After transferring your eSIM to a new iPhone, you can still use a physical SIM in the second slot (on models that have one). The two numbers can be used for different purposes for example, one for personal calls and one for work data.
Also Read:
Conclusion
Transferring an eSIM between iPhones is straightforward once you know which method applies to your situation.
For most people doing a normal device upgrade, Method 1: Direct Transfer will work in under five minutes. If that does not work, your carrier is always the reliable fallback.
The most important things to remember: delete the eSIM from your old device after the transfer, back up your iPhone before you begin, and confirm with your carrier if they have transfer limits on your plan.
If you are still stuck after trying all four methods, visit your nearest carrier store with a valid photo ID they can resolve any eSIM issue in minutes.