How to Set Up an eSIM on iPhone

24th February 2026
eSIM
iPhone screen showing eSIM setup and mobile plan activation steps

Learn how to set up an eSIM on iPhone with step-by-step instructions, device compatibility checks, and troubleshooting tips for smooth activation.

Activating an eSIM on an iPhone is quick, secure, and does not require a physical SIM card. Whether you are setting up a new business line, travelling abroad, or separating work and personal numbers, Apple's eSIM support makes the process simple.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from checking compatibility to activating your eSIM and troubleshooting common issues.

What you need before activating an eSIM on iPhone

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

  • An eSIM-compatible iPhone
  • The latest or a recent version of iOS
  • A stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection
  • Your eSIM details from your provider, such as:
    • A QR code
    • An activation link
    • Or access to a carrier app

Having these ready will ensure activation only takes a few minutes.

How to check if your iPhone supports eSIM

Most modern iPhones support eSIM, including models from the iPhone XS onwards.

To confirm eSIM support on your device:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Mobile Data or Cellular
  3. Look for Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan

If this option appears, your iPhone supports eSIM. Some regions now sell eSIM-only iPhones, while others support both a physical SIM and one or more eSIMs.

How to activate an eSIM on iPhone

Apple offers several ways to activate an eSIM, depending on how your provider delivers it.

Option 1: Activate eSIM Using a QR Code

This is the fastest and most widely used method. If you have not been provided a QR you can reach out to your carrier (including options such as AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon in the US)

Steps:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Mobile Data or Cellular
  3. Select Add eSIM
  4. Choose Use QR Code
  5. Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete setup

Once activated, your iPhone will connect to the network automatically.

Option 2: Activate eSIM Using a Carrier App

Some providers activate eSIMs through their own app.

Steps:

  1. Download your provider's app from the App Store
  2. Sign in or enter your activation details
  3. Follow the in-app instructions to install the eSIM
  4. Approve the eSIM when prompted in iOS settings

This method is common for business eSIMs and international data plans.

Option 3: Manual eSIM Activation

Manual activation is used when a QR code is not available.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Tap Mobile Data or Cellular
  3. Select Add eSIM
  4. Choose Enter Details Manually
  5. Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided
  6. Complete setup by following the prompts

Setting your eSIM as primary or secondary line

If your iPhone has more than one active SIM, you can control how each line is used.

You can:

  • Choose which line is used for calls
  • Set a default line for mobile data
  • Decide which number is used for iMessage and FaceTime
  • Label lines (for example, “Work” and “Personal”)

This is especially useful for small business owners managing work and personal communication on one device.

Common eSIM activation issues and how to fix them

While eSIM activation is usually smooth, issues can occasionally occur.

QR code not working

  • Make sure you have not already installed the eSIM
  • Check that your internet connection is stable
  • Restart your iPhone and try again

Unable to activate eSIM

  • Ensure your iPhone is unlocked
  • Confirm the eSIM has not expired
  • Update iOS if needed

No signal after activation

  • Toggle Airplane Mode on and off
  • Restart the device
  • Check mobile data settings for the correct line

If problems persist, your eSIM provider can usually resolve this quickly.

How to delete or remove an eSIM from iPhone

You may want to remove an eSIM if you are switching providers or no longer need the line.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Mobile Data or Cellular
  3. Select the eSIM you want to remove
  4. Tap Remove Mobile Plan
  5. Confirm the removal

Removing an eSIM does not affect other SIMs on your device.

Using an eSIM on iPhone for business and travel

eSIMs are ideal for business owners, freelancers, and frequent travellers.

For business use:

  • Add a dedicated work number without a second phone
  • Use eSIMs for WhatsApp Business verification
  • Keep personal and professional calls separate

For travel:

  • Install international data eSIMs before you leave
  • Avoid roaming charges
  • Switch plans on and off as needed

With multiple eSIMs stored on one iPhone, flexibility is built in.

Get a Business eSIM or WhatsApp Business number

If you want a fast, flexible way to set up a business line on your iPhone, a business eSIM or virtual number is a smart choice.

With gosimless, you can:

  • Activate a business eSIM without a physical SIM
  • Get UK mobile or landline numbers for WhatsApp Business
  • Separate work and personal communication on one iPhone
  • Set everything up online in minutes

Explore business eSIMs and WhatsApp numbers with gosimless and get your iPhone ready for professional use without the hassle.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. You can store multiple eSIMs on an iPhone, although only one or two can be active at the same time depending on the device model. This is incredibly useful for frequent travelers or business owners who need various numbers for different regions or departments.

No. Your physical SIM and eSIM can work together in what Apple calls "Dual SIM Dual Standby". Activating an eSIM does not "kick off" your physical SIM. Instead, it adds a second row of signal bars to your status bar. You can choose which SIM handles your mobile data and which is your default for calls and texts.

Yes. You can temporarily disable an eSIM in mobile data settings and re-enable it later. This is highly recommended for travel or after-hours work-life balance. You don't need to delete the profile to stop receiving calls. Simply go to Settings > Mobile Service (or Cellular), tap on the specific eSIM, and toggle off "Turn On This Line." The profile remains safely stored on your iPhone's chip, but the antenna stops looking for that network. This is the perfect way to "silence" a work line for the weekend without having to go through the setup process again on Monday morning.

In 2026, eSIM is the superior choice for security and flexibility. Because an eSIM is embedded in the phone's motherboard, it cannot be physically removed. If your iPhone is stolen, a thief cannot simply "pop out the SIM" to stop you from tracking the device or to put your number into a different phone to intercept 2FA codes. Beyond security, it's simply more convenient. You can buy and activate a gosimless number in seconds without waiting for a piece of plastic to arrive in the mail.