When upgrading to a new phone, your eSIM profiles need to move with you. Unlike physical SIM cards that you simply swap between devices, eSIM profiles are bound to a specific device's embedded chip. The transfer method depends on your phone models and whether you are staying within the same platform (iPhone to iPhone) or crossing platforms (iPhone to Android).
This guide covers every upgrade scenario.
Step-by-step instructions
- 1
Record your current eSIM details
Before starting the transfer, note your carrier names, phone numbers, and ICCID for each eSIM profile. On iPhone, find these under Settings > General > About. On Android, check Settings > About Phone > SIM Status.
Also record any remaining data balances and plan expiration dates from your eSIM provider apps. Having this information as backup speeds up troubleshooting if the transfer encounters issues.
Tip: Take screenshots of your eSIM settings screens and provider app dashboards. Email these to yourself as a safety net.
- 2
Transfer between iPhones using Quick Transfer
If both phones are iPhone 13 or later with iOS 17.4+, use Quick Transfer. On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Transfer from Nearby iPhone. Hold both phones close.
The old iPhone prompts you to approve the transfer. The profile migrates via Bluetooth in 60 to 120 seconds. The old iPhone automatically loses the eSIM.
Quick Transfer supports 47 carriers across 35 countries. During initial device setup of a new iPhone, Quick Transfer also appears in the setup wizard.
Tip: Transfer eSIMs before selling or trading in your old iPhone. Once the old device is wiped, recovering eSIM profiles requires contacting each carrier individually.
- 3
Transfer between Android phones or cross-platform
For Android-to-Android, Pixel 7+ and Samsung Galaxy S23+ support native eSIM transfer under Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Transfer from another device. For cross-platform transfers (iPhone to Android or vice versa), delete the eSIM from the old phone, then request a new QR code from your provider and scan it on the new device. Travel eSIM providers (Airalo, Saily, HelloRoam) provide free replacement QR codes through their apps.
Tip: Always delete the eSIM from the old phone before setting up on the new one. Most carriers and providers prevent simultaneous activation on two devices.
- 4
Contact your carrier for plan transfers (carrier eSIMs)
For your primary carrier plan (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, EE, Vodafone), contact customer support to transfer the eSIM to your new device. The carrier needs the new phone's EID and IMEI numbers. Processing takes 5 minutes to 24 hours.
Some carriers support self-service transfer through their apps under Account > Device > Transfer eSIM. Others require calling support or visiting a retail store.
Frequently asked questions
Do I lose my data balance when transferring a travel eSIM?
No. Your data balance and plan validity are stored on the provider's server. When you re-download the eSIM on a new device, your remaining data carries over. The transfer process moves the profile, not the data allocation.
Can I transfer multiple eSIMs at once?
iPhone Quick Transfer moves one eSIM at a time. If you have multiple eSIM profiles, repeat the process for each one. For cross-platform transfers, each eSIM needs its own QR code re-download. Plan to spend 3 to 5 minutes per eSIM profile.
What if I already wiped my old phone before transferring the eSIM?
For travel eSIMs, log into the provider's app on your new phone and re-download the QR code. The provider's server still has your plan. For carrier eSIMs, contact your carrier with your account details and new phone's EID to re-provision. You do not need the old device to recover the eSIM profile.
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