How to Delete eSIM from iPhone: A Simple Guide

Returned from your trip and want to tidy up your iPhone's cellular settings? Switching carriers? Preparing to sell your device? Whatever the reason, deleting an eSIM from your iPhone is quick and simple—but there's one critical thing you need to know first.

Warning: Most travel eSIMs can only be installed once. Once you delete the eSIM profile, you cannot reinstall it using the same QR code. Make sure you truly don't need the eSIM before removing it.

When to Delete an eSIM

There are several legitimate reasons to remove an eSIM from your iPhone:

• Your travel eSIM has expired: After your trip, the eSIM no longer provides data, so you can remove it to keep your settings tidy
• Switching carriers: When changing mobile providers, you'll need to delete the old eSIM before activating the new one
• Selling or giving away your iPhone: Remove all eSIM profiles to protect your privacy and prepare the device for its new owner
• Troubleshooting connectivity issues: Sometimes deleting and reinstalling an eSIM can fix network problems (but only if you have a new QR code)
• Managing storage limits: iPhones can store 8-20 eSIM profiles depending on the model—if you've hit the limit, delete unused ones to add new profiles

Delete vs. Deactivate: Know the Difference

Before removing your eSIM permanently, consider whether you actually need to delete it—or just turn it off temporarily.

Tip: If you're traveling to a region where your travel eSIM doesn't work, simply deactivate it instead of deleting. You can reactivate it when you return to a covered area.

How to Deactivate (Not Delete) an eSIM

1. Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data)
2. Tap the eSIM you want to disable
3. Toggle off "Turn On This Line"

The eSIM stays installed but won't use data or connect to networks until you turn it back on.

How to Delete eSIM from iPhone: Step-by-Step

Ready to permanently remove an eSIM? Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Settings

Tap the Settings app on your iPhone's home screen.

Step 2: Go to Cellular Settings

Scroll down and tap Cellular (called "Mobile Data" or "Mobile Service" in some regions).

Step 3: Select the eSIM to Delete

Under Cellular Plans or SIMs, you'll see all installed eSIM profiles. Tap the one you want to remove.

The eSIM may be labeled "Personal," "Secondary," "Travel," or with your carrier's name (e.g., "Simbye" or "T-Mobile eSIM").

Step 4: Delete the eSIM

Scroll to the bottom of the screen and tap Delete eSIM (or "Remove Cellular Plan" on older iOS versions).

A confirmation prompt will appear warning you that deleting the eSIM won't cancel your carrier plan. Tap Delete eSIM again to confirm.

That's it—the eSIM profile is now permanently removed from your iPhone.

What Happens After Deleting an eSIM?

Understanding what deletion does (and doesn't do) helps you avoid surprises:

What Happens:

• The eSIM profile is permanently erased from your device
• You can no longer use data, calls, or SMS from that eSIM
• The eSIM slot becomes available for a new profile
• Your iPhone shows one fewer plan under Cellular settings

What Doesn't Happen:

• Your carrier plan is NOT cancelled. Deleting the eSIM only removes it from your phone—your contract with the carrier remains active. To stop being billed, you must contact your carrier directly to cancel the plan.
• Your other SIMs are not affected. Physical SIMs and other eSIMs on your device continue working normally.
• Your phone isn't reset. Apps, photos, contacts, and settings remain unchanged.

Can You Reinstall a Deleted eSIM?

In most cases, no. Travel eSIM QR codes are typically single-use. Once you've scanned and installed the eSIM, the code becomes invalid—even if you later delete the profile.

To reinstall an eSIM after deletion, you'll need to:

1. Contact your eSIM provider
2. Request a new QR code or activation details
3. Install the eSIM again as if it were new

Some providers charge for replacement codes, while others (like Simbye) issue them free through 24/7 support.

What If You Can't Delete an eSIM?

Occasionally, users encounter issues when trying to delete an eSIM. Here are common problems and solutions:

"Delete eSIM" Option Not Showing

• Make sure you've selected the correct eSIM under Cellular Plans
• Some eSIMs in "Activating" status may not show delete options—try restarting your iPhone first
• If the eSIM is your only cellular plan, you may need to add another SIM first

eSIM Won't Delete After Tapping Confirm

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or another cellular connection)
• Restart your iPhone and try again
• Update to the latest iOS version (Settings → General → Software Update)

Deleted eSIM Still Appears

• Restart your iPhone after deletion
• If the ghost profile persists, try resetting network settings (note: this erases saved Wi-Fi passwords)

Tips Before Deleting Your eSIM

• Screenshot your eSIM details: Note the carrier name and any relevant information before deleting, in case you need to reference it later
• Check if you have data remaining: If your eSIM still has unused data, consider keeping it for future use instead of deleting
• Ensure you have backup connectivity: If the eSIM is your only internet connection, connect to Wi-Fi or have another SIM ready before deleting
• Contact your provider if needed: For carrier eSIMs (not travel eSIMs), check if you need to cancel your plan separately to avoid ongoing charges

Frequently Asked Questions

Does deleting an eSIM cancel my plan?

No. Deleting an eSIM only removes the profile from your iPhone. Your contract with the carrier remains active. For travel eSIMs like Simbye, plans are prepaid with no ongoing charges—so there's nothing to cancel. For carrier plans (like T-Mobile or Verizon), contact them directly to cancel.

How many eSIMs can I have on my iPhone?

Most iPhones can store 8-20 eSIM profiles, depending on the model. However, only 1-2 can be active at any time (newer iPhones support two active eSIMs simultaneously). Delete unused profiles to make room for new ones.

Can I delete an eSIM while abroad?

Yes, but make sure you have alternative connectivity first. If the eSIM is your only internet access, connect to hotel/airport Wi-Fi before deleting, or you'll be offline.

What's the difference between "Delete eSIM" and "Remove Cellular Plan"?

They're the same thing—Apple has used different wording across iOS versions. Both permanently remove the eSIM profile from your device.

Will factory reset delete my eSIMs?

When you erase all content and settings, iOS asks whether you want to keep or erase your eSIMs. You can choose to preserve them during a factory reset.

Ready for Your Next Trip?

Now that you know how to manage your eSIM profiles, you're ready to stay organized for future travels. When it's time for your next adventure, Simbye makes staying connected simple:

• Free 100MB trial—test before you commit
• Easy top-ups—add data to your existing eSIM without reinstalling
• 24/7 human support—get replacement codes instantly if needed
• 5% cashback—earn credits on every purchase

Get Your eSIM for Your Next Trip →

Download the Simbye app:

• Download for iPhone
• Download for Android