How to Transfer eSIM from One iPhone to Another: Step-by-Step Guide

Transferring your eSIM lets you move your phone number and cellular plan from your old iPhone to a new one without needing a physical SIM card. This keeps your phone service active on the new device. Whether you’re upgrading to an iPhone 16 or just switching devices, here’s how to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another in a few simple steps:

1. On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Transfer from Nearby iPhone.
2. On the old iPhone, tap Continue on the pop-up and enter the verification code shown on the new iPhone.
3. Confirm the transfer on both devices and wait for the activation to complete.

This guide will walk you through the process in detail, including what to do if you have a physical SIM or if your carrier doesn’t support eSIM transfer. Let’s get started!

What You Need Before Transferring an eSIM

Before you begin, make sure both iPhones are ready. Here’s what you need:

• iOS Version: Both iPhones should run iOS 16 or later. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check and update if needed. Most iPhones, like the iPhone XR or iPhone 16 Pro Max, support eSIM if updated.
• Bluetooth: Turn on Bluetooth on both devices. Check this in Settings > Bluetooth. This helps the iPhones communicate during the transfer. For more Bluetooth tips, see our iPhone Bluetooth guide.
• Unlocked iPhones: Both iPhones must be unlocked (not tied to a specific carrier’s restrictions).
• Carrier Support: Your carrier must support eSIM transfer. Most major carriers do, but some smaller ones may not. Contact your carrier if you’re unsure.
• Close Proximity: Keep both iPhones near each other to maintain a Bluetooth connection.

If you’re setting up a new iPhone, you might also want to transfer other data. Check out our guide on how to transfer data from old iPhone to new iPhone for more details.

How to Transfer eSIM from One iPhone to Another

Follow these steps to move your eSIM from your old iPhone to your new one. This works if you already have an eSIM on the old iPhone.

1. Open Settings on the New iPhone:

   • Go to Settings > Cellular.
   • Tap Add eSIM or Set Up Cellular (the option may vary by iOS version).
   • Select Transfer from Nearby iPhone. If you don’t see this, tap Other Options to find it.

2. Confirm on the Old iPhone:

   • A pop-up will appear on the old iPhone saying “Transfer a phone number from this iPhone.”
   • Tap Continue.

3. Enter the Verification Code:

   • The new iPhone will show a verification code.
   • Enter this code on the old iPhone to proceed.

4. Select the Phone Number:

   • If you have multiple eSIMs or numbers, choose the one you want to transfer.
   • Tap Continue on the new iPhone.

5. Authorize the Transfer:

   • On the old iPhone, double-click the power button (like confirming a purchase with Face ID) to approve the transfer.
   • On the new iPhone, confirm the phone number and tap Transfer Number.

6. Wait for Activation:

   • The new iPhone will show “Activating” or “Connecting to Network.” This can take a few seconds or minutes, depending on your carrier.
   • Once done, you’ll see “Cellular Setup Complete.” Tap Done.

7. Test the Connection:

   • Check for a signal (like 4G or 5G) in the status bar.
   • Open Safari to test internet access or make a call to ensure everything works.

If you run into issues, try restarting the new iPhone. Learn how in our guide on how to shut down or force restart any iPhone model.

Converting a Physical SIM to eSIM and Transferring

If your old iPhone uses a physical SIM and your new iPhone only supports eSIM (like newer models), you’ll need to convert the physical SIM to an eSIM first. Here’s how:

1. Check Carrier Support:

   • Confirm your carrier supports converting physical SIMs to eSIMs. Most major carriers do, but contact them if you’re unsure.

2. Convert to eSIM on the Old iPhone:

   • Go to Settings > Cellular.
   • Select your phone number (if you have multiple lines).
   • Scroll down and tap Convert to eSIM. If you don’t see this, your carrier may not support conversion.
   • Follow the prompts and double-click the power button to confirm.
   • Wait for the conversion to finish. This may take a few minutes.

3. Remove the Physical SIM:

   • Once converted, the physical SIM is no longer needed. Remove it from the old iPhone and recycle it.

4. Transfer the eSIM:

   • Follow the steps in the “How to Transfer eSIM from One iPhone to Another” section above to move the new eSIM to your new iPhone.

If you’re also moving other data, like photos or contacts, see our guide on how to transfer photos & videos from iPhone to PC.

Fixing the “SIM Not Supported” Error

Sometimes, you might see an error saying “Your SIM is not supported” or “The SIM in your old iPhone does not support eSIM transfer.” This happens if your carrier doesn’t support eSIM transfer. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Contact Your Carrier:

   • Call your carrier to get a QR code or activation code for a new eSIM.

2. Delete the eSIM from the Old iPhone:

   • On the old iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular.
   • Select the eSIM you want to transfer.
   • Tap Delete eSIM and confirm.

3. Add the eSIM to the New iPhone:

   • On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
   • Choose Use QR Code or Enter Details Manually.
   • Scan the QR code provided by your carrier or enter the activation code.
   • Follow the prompts to activate the eSIM.

4. Verify the Connection:

   • Check for a signal and test internet or calls to confirm the eSIM is active.

For more iPhone troubleshooting, explore our Ultimate iPhone User Guide.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the eSIM transfer doesn’t work, try these fixes:

• Restart the New iPhone:

  • Turn on Airplane Mode in Control Center.
  • Restart the iPhone (press volume up, volume down, then hold the power button).
  • Turn off Airplane Mode to search for a signal.

• Check Carrier Compatibility:

  • Verify your carrier supports eSIM transfer or conversion. If not, request a QR code.

• Update iOS:

  • Ensure both iPhones are on the latest iOS version via Settings > General > Software Update.

• Keep iPhones Close:

  • Bluetooth requires the iPhones to be near each other during the transfer.

If you’re having other iPhone issues, like connectivity, check our guide on iPhone Wi-Fi settings.

eSIM Transfer Compatibility Table

Here’s a quick reference for eSIM transfer compatibility:

Note: Always confirm carrier support, as it varies by region and provider.

FAQ: Common Questions About eSIM Transfer

1. Can I transfer an eSIM to any iPhone model?

Yes, as long as the iPhone supports eSIM (like iPhone XR or later) and is running iOS 16 or later. Your carrier must also support eSIM transfer.

2. What if my carrier doesn’t support eSIM transfer?

Contact your carrier for a QR code or activation code. Delete the eSIM from your old iPhone, then add it to the new iPhone using the QR code or code.

3. Do I need Wi-Fi to transfer an eSIM?

No, Wi-Fi isn’t required, but both iPhones need Bluetooth enabled and must be close to each other. A stable internet connection can help with activation.

4. Can I keep using my old iPhone after transferring the eSIM?

Once the eSIM is transferred, it’s removed from the old iPhone, so it won’t have cellular service unless you add a new SIM or eSIM.

5. How long does the eSIM transfer process take?

The transfer usually takes a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on your carrier’s activation process.

Conclusion

Transferring an eSIM from one iPhone to another is straightforward if you follow the steps and ensure both iPhones are ready. Whether you’re moving an existing eSIM, converting a physical SIM, or fixing a “SIM not supported” error, this guide covers it all. Always check with your carrier for compatibility and have a QR code ready if needed.

For more iPhone tips, explore our Ultimate iPhone User Guide to make the most of your device!