How to set up an eSIM on an iPhone

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

Open Settings, tap Mobile Service and tap Add eSIM. Then follow the route your network gives you: transfer the number from your old iPhone, scan the QR code they sent, or use their app. You need Wi-Fi and an iPhone XS or later.

An eSIM is a SIM that is built into the phone. Nothing has to be posted to you or pushed into a tray: the network sends your plan to the iPhone over the internet.

Menu names are from iOS 26. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the screen, not screenshots.

Step by step

  1. Connect to Wi-Fi

    The plan is downloaded over the internet, so the iPhone needs a connection first.

  2. Mobile ServiceMobile Data›Personal Hotspot›Add eSIM›

    Open Settings, tap Mobile Service, then Add eSIM

    In some regions the menu is called Cellular. During the first setup of a new iPhone the same choices appear by themselves.

  3. Transfer from your old iPhone

    Choose Transfer From Nearby iPhone, keep both phones close together with Bluetooth on, and confirm on the old phone. Apple calls this eSIM Quick Transfer. It needs iOS 18.4 or later on both phones, the same Apple Account, and a network that supports it.

  4. Or scan a QR code

    If your network gave you a QR code, choose Use QR Code, or simply open the Camera and point it at the code, then tap the notification that appears.

  5. Or let the network do it

    Some networks assign the eSIM when you buy the phone or plan. A message appears saying that a plan is ready to be installed. Tap it. Others activate it through their own app from the App Store.

  6. Wait for activation, then test

    When the plan shows as active, switch Wi-Fi off for a moment and make a call or load a web page.

Good to know

Background on the technology: what is an eSIM?

Coming from an Android phone, ask your network to move the number. They do it by activation on their side or with a new QR code.

If nothing else works, choose Enter Details Manually on the Add eSIM page and type in the details from your network.

Keep the QR code and your network login until the eSIM works. Many codes can only be used once.

Using two numbers at once: how to use two numbers on an iPhone with Dual SIM.

In short: Wi-Fi on, Settings, Mobile Service, Add eSIM, then transfer, QR code or network app.

Sources
  • Apple Support: Set up eSIM on iPhone

Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.