How to delete eSIM from iPhone in a few taps
This guide shows you how to delete an eSIM from your iPhone, when to turn a line off instead, and how to avoid losing a travel plan you still need.
To delete an eSIM from your iPhone, open Settings, tap Cellular (or Mobile Data), choose the eSIM line, then tap Delete eSIM and confirm. Deleting removes the plan from your phone for good, so most travel eSIMs cannot be reinstalled. This guide covers when to delete, how travel eSIMs work, setup steps and quick fixes abroad.
Quick answer
You can remove a travel eSIM from your iPhone in under a minute. On iPhones set to UK English, the menu says "Mobile Data" instead of "Cellular."
- Open Settings and tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Under your SIMs, tap the travel eSIM line you want to remove.
- Scroll down and tap Delete eSIM.
- Confirm when your iPhone asks you to.
Deleting is usually permanent. Your phone erases the eSIM profile, and most providers won't let you scan the same QR code again. If you need the line later, you may have to contact the provider for a new code or buy a new plan.
The best time to delete is after your trip ends and the plan has expired. Check your provider's app first to confirm no data or days remain. Until then, you can simply turn the line off in the same menu. This keeps the eSIM safe on your phone for a return trip or a plan top-up.
How a travel eSIM works
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your iPhone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you download a carrier profile, usually by scanning a QR code or tapping an install link. The profile holds your number or data plan and stays on the phone until you remove it.
One iPhone can store several eSIMs, but only two lines can be active at the same time. Many travellers keep their home line on for calls and texts and use a travel eSIM for mobile data. For the full setup, see Install an eSIM on Your iPhone: Stay Connected Abroad Without the Hassle.
Turning a line off and deleting it are not the same:
- Turn off: The eSIM stays saved, and you can switch it back on later.
- Delete: The profile disappears from your phone for good.
- Reinstall: Most providers need to send you a new QR code, and some cannot.
- Plan time: Deleting an eSIM does not usually cancel your plan or refund unused days.
What you need before you buy an eSIM
Check a few things first so your travel eSIM works the moment you land. Most iPhones from the XS and XR onward support eSIM, but models sold in some regions may differ.
- An unlocked iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About and look for Carrier Lock. "No SIM restrictions" means you can use another provider's eSIM.
- Good coverage: Check which local networks the eSIM uses in your destination, and whether it offers 4G or 5G there.
- The right amount of data: Estimate your daily use for maps, messaging, video calls and streaming. Then pick a plan with room to spare.
- Dual SIM support: iPhones with eSIM support dual SIM, so you can keep two lines active at once.
Keep your home SIM or eSIM switched on so you still receive calls and texts. Then set the travel eSIM as your mobile data line. Turn off data roaming on your home line to avoid unexpected charges.
How to set up your eSIM step by step
Install your travel eSIM at home, while you still have Wi-Fi. Most providers let you add the plan with a QR code or through their own app.
- Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM. Scan the QR code, or follow the prompts in the provider's app.
- Label the new line, such as "Travel", so you can tell your plans apart.
- Tap Cellular Data and choose the travel line as your default for data.
- Tap the travel line and turn on Data Roaming. Leave roaming off on your home line.
- Keep your home line switched on, and set it as the default voice line for calls and texts.
A few extra checks can help:
- Turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching to avoid roaming charges on your home plan.
- Save the QR code or activation details somewhere safe.
- Keep the eSIM until your trip ends, as some providers do not let you reinstall it.
For model-specific tips, read Stay Connected with an eSIM on Your iPhone 13 for International Travel.
Tips to save data and avoid roaming charges
Your travel eSIM only saves money if your phone uses it for data. Set it as your data line, then stop the home SIM from roaming in the background. A few quick settings make your data last longer.
- Turn off roaming on your home line. Go to Settings > Cellular, tap your home line and switch off Data Roaming. Keep the line on if you still want calls and texts, but check your carrier's roaming fees first.
- Use Wi-Fi when you can. Connect at your hotel, cafés or airports for large downloads, updates and video calls.
- Turn on Low Data Mode. Find it under your eSIM's Cellular Data Options. It pauses automatic updates and some background tasks.
- Limit Background App Refresh. Turn it off in Settings > General for apps you don't need while away.
- Download offline maps before you go. Apple Maps and Google Maps both let you save areas for offline use.
You can also check usage per app under Settings > Cellular. Switch off cellular data for any app that uses too much.
Common eSIM problems and quick fixes
No signal abroad? Turn on Data Roaming for the travel line in Settings > Mobile Data. Then switch Airplane Mode on and off, or choose a network manually.
If a line stays stuck on "Activating", connect to Wi-Fi and restart your iPhone. Wait a little, then check again.
Deleted an eSIM by mistake? Most QR codes work only once, so you usually cannot scan the same code twice. Contact your provider and ask for a new QR code or fresh activation details.
Moving to a new iPhone? Some carriers support eSIM Transfer during setup, but travel providers often need to issue a new profile. Read Stay connected with eSIM on your iPhone 17 for international travel for more help.
Before you delete any eSIM:
- Confirm your trip has ended and you no longer need the plan.
- Check that any remaining data has expired.
- Save your provider's support contact and account details.
- Keep your main line switched on.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I delete my eSIM on iPhone?
Your iPhone erases the eSIM profile, and that line stops working on the phone. Most providers will not let you scan the same QR code again. Deleting usually does not cancel your plan or refund unused days, so check with your provider first.
Can I reinstall an eSIM after deleting it?
Usually not with the same QR code. Most travel eSIMs are single-use, so you would need to contact the provider for a new code or buy a new plan. If you might need the line again, turn it off instead of deleting it.
Should I turn off or delete my travel eSIM?
Turn it off if your plan still has data or days left, or if you may top it up later. Delete it only when the plan has expired and you no longer need it. Turning it off keeps the profile safe on your phone.
Why can't I see the Delete eSIM option?
Some carriers lock or manage eSIMs, which can hide the option. Make sure you tapped the eSIM line itself under Cellular or Mobile Data, then scroll down. If it still doesn't appear, contact your carrier for help.
Does erasing my iPhone delete the eSIM?
When you erase your iPhone, it asks whether to keep or erase your eSIMs. Choose carefully, because erased eSIMs may need a new QR code from your provider. Keep them if you plan to use the lines again.
Do I need to delete an eSIM before selling my iPhone?
Yes, remove your eSIMs before you sell or give away your iPhone. This stops anyone else from using your lines. Contact your carrier if you want to move your home number to a new phone first.
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