To delete an eSIM from an iPhone, open Settings → Cellular, tap the eSIM plan, then tap Delete eSIM and confirm. The whole process takes under 30 seconds.
Back from your trip, switching carriers, or getting your iPhone ready to sell? Removing an eSIM is fast and simple—but it is permanent, so it pays to read the warning below before you tap that button.
Important — this cannot be undone: Deleting an eSIM permanently erases the profile from your iPhone. A Simbye eSIM can usually be re-installed from the Simbye app or your original order email, but many carrier eSIMs and single-use travel QR codes cannot be re-added once removed. Back up your details first.
How to Delete an eSIM from iPhone: Step-by-Step
Follow these four steps to permanently remove an eSIM. The wording differs slightly across iOS versions, but the path is the same.
- Open Settings. Tap the Settings app on your iPhone home screen.
- Go to Cellular. Scroll down and tap Cellular (shown as "Mobile Data" or "Mobile Service" in some regions).
- Select the eSIM. Under SIMs or Cellular Plans, tap the plan you want to remove. It may be labeled "Travel," "Secondary," or with a carrier name such as "Simbye."
- Tap Delete eSIM. Scroll to the bottom and tap Delete eSIM (or "Remove Cellular Plan" on older iOS). Confirm by tapping Delete eSIM again.
That is it. The profile is now gone, and the slot is free for a new eSIM.
When You Should — and Shouldn't — Delete an eSIM
Deletion is the right move in some cases and a mistake in others. Use this quick guide before you commit.
| Delete it when… | Keep (or just turn off) when… |
|---|---|
| The eSIM has fully expired and has no data left | It still has unused data or validity remaining |
| You are selling or giving away the iPhone | You will travel to the same region again soon |
| You have hit your iPhone's eSIM storage limit | You only want to pause it for a few days |
| You are switching to a different carrier eSIM | You are unsure whether you can re-install it |
Tip: If you just need a break from a line, don't delete it. Go to Settings → Cellular, tap the eSIM, and toggle off "Turn On This Line." The profile stays installed and can be switched back on anytime.
What Happens to Your Plan and Data After Deleting?
Knowing exactly what deletion does—and doesn't do—helps you avoid surprises.
What happens:
- The eSIM profile is permanently erased from your iPhone.
- You can no longer use data, calls, or SMS from that line.
- The eSIM slot opens up for a new profile.
What does not happen:
- Your carrier plan is not cancelled. Deleting only removes the profile from the phone—a postpaid contract keeps running until you cancel it with the carrier directly.
- Prepaid travel eSIMs have nothing to cancel. Simbye plans are prepaid with no recurring charges, so there is no subscription to stop.
- Your other SIMs and your data are untouched. Physical SIMs, other eSIMs, apps, photos, and contacts all keep working normally.
How to Re-install a Simbye eSIM After Deleting
Deleted a Simbye eSIM by mistake? In most cases you can get it back:
- Use the Simbye app. Open the app, go to My eSIM, and re-display the QR code or activation details for your order.
- Check your order email. Your original confirmation email from Simbye contains the QR code and manual activation details—scan it again from Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM.
- Contact 24/7 support. If the code has already been used and won't re-install, Simbye support can issue a fresh activation, free of charge.
Need full setup instructions? See the Simbye top-up and eSIM management page or the how it works guide. Note that many other providers' travel QR codes are strictly single-use and cannot be re-added at all once deleted.
Get a Simbye eSIM for Your Next Trip
Heading somewhere new? Simbye keeps you connected with instant QR delivery, easy top-ups, 24/7 human support, and 5% cashback on every purchase across 190+ destinations. Plans start from just $3.
- Europe eSIM — from $25
- USA eSIM — from $3
- Turkey eSIM — from $3
- Browse all 190+ destinations →
Or grab the Simbye app to manage everything from your phone:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does deleting an eSIM cancel my plan?
No. Deleting an eSIM only removes the profile from your iPhone. A postpaid carrier contract stays active until you cancel it with the carrier directly. Prepaid travel eSIMs like Simbye have no recurring charges, so there is nothing to cancel.
Can I re-install an eSIM after I delete it?
It depends on the provider. A Simbye eSIM can usually be re-added from the Simbye app or your order email, and support can issue a new activation if needed. Many other travel eSIM QR codes are single-use and cannot be re-added once the profile is deleted.
How many eSIMs can my iPhone store?
Most iPhones can store 8 to 20 eSIM profiles depending on the model, but only one or two can be active at the same time. Delete unused profiles to free up room for new ones.
Can I delete an eSIM while abroad?
Yes, but make sure you have another way to get online first. If the eSIM is your only internet connection, connect to Wi-Fi before deleting, or you will be left offline.
What is the difference between "Delete eSIM" and "Remove Cellular Plan"?
They are the same action. Apple has used different wording across iOS versions, but both permanently remove the eSIM profile from your device.
Will a factory reset delete my eSIMs?
Not automatically. When you erase all content and settings, iOS asks whether you want to keep or remove your eSIMs, so you can choose to preserve them during the reset.
The "Delete eSIM" button is missing—what should I do?
Make sure you have tapped the correct eSIM under Cellular Plans. If the eSIM is still "Activating," or it is your only line, restart your iPhone or add another SIM first, then try again.
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