How to Transfer an eSIM to a New Phone (iPhone and Android)
Last checked: September 2026
You can transfer an eSIM to a new phone by using eSIM Quick Transfer on iPhone, which moves the line during setup or later in Settings under Mobile Service (Cellular in the US), if your carrier supports it. On Android, options depend on the phone maker and carrier, or your carrier can issue a new eSIM QR code.
Before you start
Before you transfer an eSIM to a new phone, check that your carrier supports eSIM transfer and that you have your account details ready. On iPhone, both phones need to be signed in to the same Apple Account, near each other, with Bluetooth on. On Android, transfer options depend on the phone maker and the carrier.
Make sure the old phone is still working and connected to the internet. Keep the old phone until the new one shows the line working. If you are switching between lines, you can find more details in our guide on how to switch between lines.
If your carrier does not support eSIM transfer, they can usually send a new QR code or transfer the line in their app or store. You may also need your EID number when contacting your carrier.
Transferring an eSIM between iPhones
On iPhone, eSIM Quick Transfer moves a line during setup of the new iPhone, or later in Settings under Mobile Service (Cellular in the US), if the carrier supports it. Both iPhones need to be signed in to the same Apple Account, near each other, with Bluetooth on.
Here is how to transfer an eSIM from one iPhone to another:
- Turn on the new iPhone and begin setup. When you reach the Mobile Service (Cellular in the US) screen, choose to transfer your eSIM.
- If you have already set up the new iPhone, go to Settings, then Mobile Service (Cellular in the US), then Add eSIM, and select Transfer from Nearby iPhone.
- Make sure both iPhones are signed in to the same Apple Account, are near each other, and have Bluetooth turned on.
- Follow the on-screen instructions on both phones to complete the transfer.
- Wait until the new iPhone shows the line working before you erase or remove the eSIM from the old iPhone.
If you need help activating an eSIM on iPhone, see our guide on how to activate an eSIM on iPhone.
Transferring an eSIM on Android
On Android, transfer options depend on the phone maker and the carrier. Some Android phones support transferring an eSIM during setup or in settings, but if not, the carrier issues a new eSIM QR code. Many carriers can also send a new QR code or transfer the line in their app or store.
Because Android phones vary, check your phone maker's instructions and your carrier's support pages. If your carrier supports eSIM transfer, you may see an option during setup or in network settings. If not, contact your carrier to request a new eSIM QR code.
When you receive a new QR code, install it on the new phone. Keep the old phone until the new one shows the line working. If you need to remove the old eSIM, do so only after the new one is active.
Travel eSIMs are different
A travel data eSIM QR code can usually be installed only once, so do not delete a travel eSIM that is still in use. If you change phones mid-trip with a Slashtel eSIM, message support on WhatsApp before deleting anything.
Travel eSIMs are often data-only and not tied to your Apple Account or Google Account in the same way as a carrier line. That means eSIM Quick Transfer and similar tools may not work for them. The QR code is typically single-use, so deleting the eSIM from your old phone may make it impossible to reinstall on the new phone.
If you are mid-trip and need to move a Slashtel eSIM to a new phone, contact support on WhatsApp first. They can advise you on the correct steps and help you avoid losing your data plan. Do not delete the eSIM until support confirms what to do.
If the transfer fails
If the transfer fails, do not panic. First, check that both phones meet the requirements: same Apple Account on iPhone, Bluetooth on, and both devices near each other. If it still fails, contact your carrier. They can often send a new QR code or transfer the line in their app or store.
For Android, if the built-in transfer does not work, your carrier can issue a new eSIM QR code. You may need your EID number and account details. If you are using a Slashtel travel eSIM, message support on WhatsApp before deleting anything.
Keep the old phone until the new one shows the line working. If you need more help, visit our help centre.
Questions, answered
How do I transfer an eSIM to a new iPhone?
On iPhone, use eSIM Quick Transfer during setup of the new iPhone, or later in Settings under Mobile Service (Cellular in the US), if your carrier supports it. Both iPhones must be signed in to the same Apple Account, near each other, with Bluetooth on.
Can I transfer an eSIM from one iPhone to another without contacting my carrier?
Yes, if your carrier supports eSIM Quick Transfer. You can move the line during setup of the new iPhone or later in Settings under Mobile Service (Cellular in the US). Both phones need the same Apple Account, Bluetooth on, and to be near each other.
How do I transfer an eSIM on Android?
On Android, transfer options depend on the phone maker and the carrier. Some phones support transferring an eSIM during setup or in settings. If not, your carrier can issue a new eSIM QR code or transfer the line in their app or store.
Can I transfer a travel eSIM to a new phone?
A travel data eSIM QR code can usually be installed only once, so you should not delete a travel eSIM that is still in use. If you change phones mid-trip with a Slashtel eSIM, message support on WhatsApp before deleting anything.
What should I do if my eSIM transfer fails?
If the transfer fails, check that both phones meet the requirements: same Apple Account on iPhone, Bluetooth on, and both devices near each other. If it still fails, contact your carrier. They can often send a new QR code or transfer the line in their app or store.