How to Transfer eSIM to a New Phone: Step-by-Step

How to Transfer eSIM to a New Phone

Upgrading to a new phone does not mean losing your eSIM plan. Most eSIM profiles can be transferred to a new device, though the process varies depending on your device ecosystem and carrier. This guide covers all the common scenarios.

iPhone to iPhone Transfer

Apple has made eSIM transfer relatively straightforward between iPhones:

• Quick Transfer: During iPhone setup, you may be offered the option to transfer your eSIM from your old iPhone. Both devices need to be nearby with Bluetooth enabled
• Settings transfer: On your new iPhone, go to Settings, Cellular, Add eSIM, then select Transfer from Another iPhone
• Carrier app: Some carriers require you to use their app to initiate the transfer
• The old iPhone's eSIM is deactivated once the transfer completes

Android to Android Transfer

eSIM transfer on Android varies more by manufacturer:

• Samsung devices may offer transfer during initial device setup via Smart Switch
• Google Pixel devices support eSIM transfer during setup for supported carriers
• Many Android carriers require you to contact them to re-provision the eSIM on the new device
• Some providers give you a new QR code to scan on your new device

Cross-Platform Transfer (iPhone to Android or Vice Versa)

Transferring an eSIM between different ecosystems usually requires carrier intervention:

• Contact your eSIM provider and request a new activation QR code
• Delete the eSIM profile from your old device
• Scan the new QR code on your new device
• The carrier reprovisions the same plan on the new device's eSIM

What You Cannot Transfer

Be aware of these limitations when transferring eSIM profiles:

• Some prepaid or travel eSIM plans do not support transfer and require a new purchase
• eSIM profiles are device-specific; you cannot simply copy the profile data
• Transferred profiles may need to be re-authenticated with the carrier
• Data remaining on the old plan carries over, but the QR code cannot be reused

Best Practice Before Switching Phones

Before upgrading your device:

• Check with your eSIM provider whether transfer is supported
• Note your current plan details, remaining data, and expiration date
• Do not delete the eSIM from your old phone until the transfer is confirmed on the new device
• Keep your old device powered on and nearby during the transfer process

PrivateSims makes device transfers simple. Contact our support team to receive a fresh QR code for your new device at no additional cost.