How to Transfer Your eSIM to a New Phone

Step-by-step guide for iPhone to iPhone, Android to Android, and cross-platform eSIM transfers when upgrading your device.

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Before you start 1

Check these 3 things first

Is your new phone eSIM-capable?

Check our <a href="/esim/esim-vs-physical-sim" style="color:var(--brand-primary);font-weight:600;">compatibility guide</a> — iPhone XR (2018) or later, Samsung Galaxy S20+ (2020) or later, Google Pixel 3 or later.

Is your new phone carrier-unlocked?

A carrier-locked phone won't accept third-party eSIMs. Contact your carrier to unlock if needed.

Do you have your eSIM provider account login?

You'll need access to your order or account to request a new QR code if required.

Important

Most eSIM plans can only be transferred once. Contact your provider before doing anything — they'll confirm whether a transfer is possible and what the process is.

iPhone to iPhone 2

iPhone to iPhone transfer

iOS 16 and later support Quick eSIM Transfer — Apple's built-in method that moves your eSIM without needing a new QR code.

Method 1 — Quick Transfer (iOS 16+)

On your old iPhone: Settings > Cellular > [plan name] > Transfer to new iPhone

Bring your new iPhone close to your old one

Follow the on-screen instructions on both devices

Your eSIM profile transfers automatically — no QR code needed

Method 2 — Manual (all iOS versions)

Contact your eSIM provider and request a new QR code for your order

Do NOT delete the eSIM from your old phone yet — wait until you have the new QR

On your new iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code

Scan the new QR code — your plan activates on the new device

Once confirmed working, delete the old profile from your previous iPhone

Do not delete from your old phone until you have confirmed the eSIM is working on the new device.

Android to Android 3

Android to Android transfer

Android eSIM transfer varies by manufacturer. The general approach works for most devices. Some Samsung models support direct transfer via the Samsung Switch app. If you run into issues during setup, check the eSIM troubleshooting guide.

On your old Android: Settings > About phone > EID — note your EID number

Contact your eSIM provider, provide your order number and new device EID

Request a new QR code for your new device

On your new Android: Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add eSIM

Scan the new QR code provided by your provider

Confirm data is working, then remove the profile from your old device

Samsung tip: Galaxy devices running One UI 5+ may support direct eSIM transfer via Samsung Switch. Check Settings > Accounts and backup > Samsung Switch on your old device.

Cross-platform 4

iPhone to Android (or Android to iPhone)

There is no automatic cross-platform eSIM transfer. You will need to go through the manual process — which means contacting your provider for a new QR code.

Contact your eSIM provider with your order number and confirm you're switching platforms

Provide your new device's EID (for Android) or confirm it's an eSIM-capable iPhone

Request a new QR code — the provider will verify eligibility and issue one

Install the new QR code on your new device following the standard installation steps

Confirm data connectivity before considering the transfer complete

Note: No automatic cross-platform transfer is possible. Always use the manual QR code method when switching between iOS and Android.

Factory reset 5

What if I factory reset my phone?

Good news — eSIM profiles usually survive a factory reset

On most devices, eSIM profiles are stored in a dedicated secure chip and are not wiped during a factory reset. After restoring your device, go to Settings > Cellular — your eSIM plan should still appear. Once your new device is set up, consider using Dual SIM to run your home number and a travel eSIM simultaneously.

If the eSIM is not there after a reset, contact your provider. They can re-issue a QR code linked to your original order.