How to Transfer an eSIM to a New Carrier and Keep Your Number

Updated 5 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Switching carriers with an eSIM doesn’t mean losing your phone number. This guide walks you through the process of moving your eSIM to a new carrier while keeping your existing number, covering what you need, the exact steps, common pitfalls, and troubleshooting tips.

What You’ll Need

Your current phone number and account details (PIN or password) from your current carrier.
Your phone’s unlock status: it must be carrier-unlocked to switch to a different carrier. Contact your current carrier to unlock it if needed.
Your new carrier’s eSIM activation details: either a QR code, an activation code, or a download link from their app or website.
A stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection to download the eSIM profile.
Your phone’s IMEI number (found in Settings > General > About on iPhone, or Settings > About Phone on Android).

Step-by-Step

Confirm your number is portable. Check with your new carrier that they can port your number from your current carrier. Most carriers in the same country support porting, but it’s always best to confirm.
Unlock your phone (if necessary). If your phone is locked to your current carrier, request an unlock from them. This can take a few days, so do it early.
Back up your eSIM profile (optional but recommended). On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > select your eSIM > “Remove Cellular Plan” (this removes it from the phone, but you can re-add it later if you change your mind). On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > tap the eSIM > “Erase” or “Remove”. This step is optional; you can also just leave the old eSIM on the phone until the new one is active.
Get your new carrier’s eSIM activation details. Sign up with the new carrier and choose to activate via eSIM. They will provide a QR code (usually by email or on their website) or an activation code.
Add the new eSIM to your phone. On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > “Add Cellular Plan” and scan the QR code. On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > “Add SIM” or “Add eSIM” and scan the QR code. If you have an activation code, enter it manually.
Label your new eSIM. After adding, you’ll be prompted to label it (e.g., “Primary”). Choose a label that helps you distinguish it from your old one.
Set the new eSIM as your default line. Go to Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (Android). Select the new eSIM and set it as the default for voice, SMS, and data.
Initiate the number transfer (port). Contact your new carrier (or use their app/website) to request a port of your number. You’ll need your account number and PIN from your current carrier. The port usually completes within a few hours to a few days.
Wait for the port to complete. During the port, you may lose service temporarily. Once it’s done, your old eSIM will be automatically deactivated, and your new eSIM will have your number.
Remove the old eSIM profile. After the port is complete, you can safely remove the old eSIM from your phone to avoid confusion. On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > tap the old plan > “Remove Cellular Plan”. On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > tap the old eSIM > “Erase” or “Remove”.

Common Mistakes

Not unlocking your phone first. If your phone is locked, the new eSIM won’t work. Always unlock before starting.
Removing the old eSIM before the port completes. This can cause you to lose your number if the port fails. Keep the old eSIM until the new one is active.
Choosing the wrong default line. If you don’t set the new eSIM as default, calls and texts may still go through the old line, leading to confusion.
Scanning the QR code with the wrong camera app. Use the built-in camera or the Settings app, not a third-party scanner that might not trigger the eSIM setup.
Assuming the port is instant. Ports can take time, especially if you’re switching between different types of carriers (e.g., postpaid to prepaid).

Tips

Use Wi-Fi for the eSIM download. Downloading a new eSIM profile uses data; Wi-Fi avoids any data charges and is more reliable.
Keep your old eSIM until the port finishes. This ensures you don’t lose service if the port is delayed.
Write down your current carrier’s account number and PIN. You’ll need these for the port. They’re often on your bill or online account.
Check for carrier-specific instructions. Some carriers have apps that guide you through the eSIM transfer and port process, which can be simpler.
Restart your phone after adding the eSIM. This helps the phone recognize the new profile.

Troubleshooting

eSIM not activating. Make sure your phone is carrier-unlocked and that you have a stable internet connection. Try restarting your phone. If it still fails, contact your new carrier to confirm the eSIM profile is valid.
Port not completing. Check that you provided the correct account number and PIN. Contact your current carrier to verify there are no holds on your number (e.g., unpaid bills). Sometimes the port can be delayed; wait 24 hours and then contact your new carrier.
No service after port. Restart your phone. If that doesn’t work, go to Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (Android) and ensure the new eSIM is enabled and set as default. If the issue persists, contact your new carrier.
Old eSIM still active after port. This is normal until the port completes. Once the port is done, the old eSIM should automatically deactivate. If it doesn’t, manually remove it.
QR code not scanning. Ensure the screen brightness is high and the code is fully visible. Try zooming in or moving the phone closer. If it still fails, ask your carrier for a manual activation code.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my eSIM to a new carrier without losing my number?

Yes, by porting your number. The process involves activating the new eSIM and then requesting a number port from your new carrier.

How long does the number transfer take?

It can take from a few minutes to a few business days, depending on the carriers involved. Most ports complete within 24 hours.

Do I need to contact my current carrier to unlock my phone?

Yes, if your phone is locked. You can request an unlock from your current carrier, usually through their customer service or website.

What happens to my old eSIM after the port?

It will be automatically deactivated once the port is complete. You can then remove it from your phone to free up space.

Can I keep both eSIMs on my phone?

Yes, but only one can be active at a time. You can switch between them in settings, but if you port your number, the old eSIM will be deactivated.

What if my new carrier doesn’t support eSIM?

Most major carriers now support eSIM, but if yours doesn’t, you can request a physical SIM card instead. The process for keeping your number would be similar, but you’d insert the physical SIM.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.