How to Delete eSIM from iPhone [Ultimate Guide]

eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card built into your device. With eSIM, iPhone users can easily purchase a package and activate it to connect to a local wireless internet connection without having to swap physical SIM cards. However, there are times when you might need to delete eSIM from your iPhone after using eSIM for international travel.

Additionally, iPhones generally have a limit of 20 eSIMs stored at a time. So, how exactly do you remove an eSIM from an iPhone? This article will guide you through the steps and also explain what happens when you erase an eSIM and whether you can recover a deleted eSIM.

Part 1. How to Completely Delete eSIM from iPhone

As mentioned earlier, you might need to remove an eSIM from your iPhone for various reasons, such as getting a new phone, switching to a new carrier, no longer needing the current plan, or your eSIM not working. The steps to delete an eSIM from an iPhone can vary slightly depending on the iPhone model and iOS version, but the process is generally the same.

Follow these steps to safely delete an eSIM profile from your iOS device:

• Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
• Step 2: Tap on Cellular or Mobile Data.
• Step 3: Find and select the eSIM plan you wish to remove.
• Step 4: Scroll down to the bottom and tap on Remove Cellular Plan or Delete Mobile Plan.

Note: If you have multiple eSIMs, repeat the above steps several times to delete them all. Additionally, some iPhones may ask for a password or require Touch/Face ID confirmation before deleting the eSIM.

Deleting an eSIM from an iPhone is straightforward, but remember that once it's gone, it's not coming back unless you reconfigure it. Ensuring you follow each step carefully will help you avoid any accidental deletions.

Part 2. What happens if I delete eSIM?

Removing an eSIM from your iPhone does not cancel your service with your carrier. You are simply deleting that specific plan from your device. Once the eSIM is removed, you won't be able to make calls, send texts, or use mobile data linked to that eSIM. To fully terminate your contract and stop being billed for the plan, you need to get in touch with your carrier. They will provide you with the steps to cancel your eSIM plan.

Make sure you have a stable internet connection before you delete your eSIM. If the eSIM is your only means of connecting to the internet, deleting it could lead to a connection loss, which can be very inconvenient. To prevent this, consider getting a backup eSIM like MicroEsim, which is both affordable and easy to use.

>> Get MicroEsim Data Plans

Part 3. Can I Recover a Deleted eSIM on iPhone?

Unfortunately, if you accidentally delete your eSIM or remove the wrong one, you cannot retrieve it. Once an eSIM is deleted, it cannot be restored.

In this case, you will need to contact your eSIM carrier and request a new QR code to reactivate your eSIM. Each eSIM comes with a unique QR code that can only be scanned once, so you'll need to ask for a new one to set up your eSIM again.

This can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you need immediate access to your mobile service. It's always a good idea to double-check the eSIM profile you're deleting to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

Part 4. How to Deactivate/Reactivate eSIM on iPhone?

When you travel to a region where your eSIM does not apply, you might need to deactivate it. Once you return to a place where your eSIM is functional, you'll want to reactivate it.

Here's how you can do it:

Step 1: Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap on Cellular or Mobile Data.

Step 3: Select the eSIM plan you wish to manage.

Step 4: Toggle the switch next to it to turn it off or on according to your needs.

This allows you to easily deactivate or reactivate your eSIM as needed. Deactivating your eSIM can save you from unwanted charges while traveling, especially if you're moving between regions with different network compatibilities.

Part 5. Tips for Deleting eSIM on iPhone

Before you delete an eSIM from your iPhone, here are some useful tips to consider:

• Keep a Spare SIM: Always have an extra SIM card on hand so you can still make calls and use the internet if you need to remove your eSIM.
• Check Expiration Dates: Your eSIM may only be valid for a certain period. Make sure you know its expiration date to avoid losing service unexpectedly.
• Know Your Coverage: eSIMs might only work in specific countries. If you're traveling, check if your eSIM will work at your destination or if you need a different SIM card.
• Prepare a New Plan: If you run out of data on your eSIM and can't add more, you'll need a new SIM card with a new plan. Having one ready can save you from waiting for a new one.

        >> Prepare a New eSIM Data Plan

• Backup Your Data: Before deleting your eSIM, ensure all your contacts, photos, and videos are backed up. You can use iCloud for this, or get help from your phone service provider.

Knowing these tips can help you manage your eSIM more effectively, ensuring that you remain connected without interruptions.

Part 6. If a PIN code is required when deleting an eSIM card, how do I obtain the PIN code?

When you want to delete the eSIM card, you may be required to enter a PIN code when you select Delete.

Why is an eSIM PIN important?

• Security: If your phone is lost or stolen, a thief won't be able to use your eSIM unless they know the PIN. Every time your phone restarts or the eSIM is re-activated, the PIN is required.
• Protection: It's a crucial layer of defense for your mobile identity, keeping your data and personal information secure.
  

To get your eSIM's PIN code, you can use one of these methods:

1. Check with Your Mobile Carrier

When you signed up for your eSIM plan, your carrier would have provided a document or email with your account details.

2. Find it in Your Phone's Settings

If your eSIM is already active, you can find and manage the PIN within your phone's settings. The exact path can vary slightly between devices.

For iPhone

• Go to Settings > Cellular.
• Select the eSIM line you want to manage.
• Tap on SIM PIN. From here, you can see if the PIN is enabled and choose to Change PIN, which requires you to enter the current one first.

For Android

• Go to Settings > Security or Security & privacy.
• Look for More security settings or Advanced settings.
• Tap on Set up SIM card lock or SIM card PIN. Here, you can manage the PIN code.

3. Contact Your Carrier's Customer Support

If you can't find the default PIN or if you've forgotten it, the safest and most reliable method is to contact your mobile carrier directly.

• Call their customer service: After verifying your identity, they can provide you with your PUK (Personal Unblocking Key) code or help you reset the PIN.

Important Warning: Do not guess your PIN code. If you enter the wrong PIN three times in a row, your eSIM will be locked. You'll then need the PUK code to unlock it. If you enter the wrong PUK code too many times, the eSIM will be permanently disabled, and you'll have to get a new one from your carrier.

The Bottom Line

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be able to manage your eSIMs with confidence, ensuring that your mobile connectivity is always reliable and tailored to your needs. Whether you're switching devices, changing carriers, or simply updating your plans, understanding how to handle eSIMs is a valuable skill for any iPhone user.

Though activating and removing an eSIM differs from traditional SIM cards, the process is straightforward. If you need a reliable and affordable option, consider MicroEsim. It covers a wide range of regions on the planet and can be easily removed if you no longer need it.

>> Choose Your eSIM Plan Right Now!