Deleting an eSIM profile removes it from your phone's embedded chip. This is useful when you return from a trip and no longer need the travel data plan, when you need to free up a profile slot for a new eSIM, or when troubleshooting a broken profile. Deleting does not cancel your account or subscription with the provider.
This guide covers the deletion process on iPhone, Samsung, and Pixel, plus how to get a replacement if you delete a profile by mistake.
Step-by-step instructions
- 1
Delete an eSIM on iPhone
Go to Settings > Cellular and tap the eSIM line you want to remove. Scroll to the bottom and tap 'Delete eSIM' (or 'Remove Cellular Plan' on older iOS versions). Confirm when prompted.
The profile is erased from the embedded chip in seconds. The carrier name disappears from your Cellular settings immediately.
Tip: If you might revisit the same destination, consider toggling the eSIM off instead of deleting it. Toggling off preserves the profile for reactivation later without needing a new QR code.
- 2
Delete an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. Tap the eSIM profile you want to remove. Select 'Remove' and confirm.
Samsung may prompt you to restart the phone after removal. Some One UI versions label the button 'Delete' instead of 'Remove.' The function is identical.
Tip: On Samsung, deleted eSIM profiles cannot be recovered from the device. Make sure you have the QR code or account credentials to re-download if needed.
- 3
Delete an eSIM on Google Pixel
Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. Tap the eSIM you want to delete. Select 'Delete' or 'Erase SIM.' Confirm the action.
The profile is removed from your Pixel immediately. No restart is required on most Pixel models.
Tip: On Pixel, deleted eSIM profiles cannot be un-deleted. If you deleted by accident, contact your provider for a replacement QR code.
- 4
Get a replacement QR code if needed
If you deleted an eSIM profile and still have active data remaining on the plan, log into your provider's app or website. Most travel eSIM providers (Airalo, Saily, Nomad, HelloRoam) let you re-download a QR code from your order history or 'My eSIMs' dashboard. For carrier eSIMs (T-Mobile, Verizon, EE), contact customer support or visit a store to request a new provisioning QR.
Carrier re-provisioning typically takes 5 to 30 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Does deleting an eSIM cancel my plan?
No. Deleting an eSIM profile only removes it from your device. Your data plan, subscription, and account with the provider remain active on their servers. Prepaid plans continue counting down their validity period. To actually cancel a plan, you need to contact the provider directly or let it expire.
Can I re-download a deleted eSIM?
It depends on the provider. Most travel eSIM providers allow unlimited re-downloads from their app dashboard. Carrier eSIMs typically require a new QR code from customer support. The original QR code is single-use and becomes invalid after the first successful scan, so you cannot simply re-scan the same QR.
How many times can I delete and re-add an eSIM?
There is no limit on how many times you can delete and re-add eSIM profiles to your device. The eUICC chip in your phone can handle thousands of write cycles. The limiting factor is your provider's willingness to issue replacement QR codes, which is typically unlimited for travel eSIM services.
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