Moving a Travel eSIM to a New Phone: What to Check Before You Switch
Short answer
If you are getting a new phone before a trip, check how your travel eSIM was set up before you touch it. Do not delete it from the old phone until you know what happens next.
For ElloSim eSIMs, a QR code can only be used on one device, and the eSIM cannot be moved to a different phone after it has been installed. If you are changing phones, contact ElloSim support with your order ID before deleting anything, so the team can check your order.
Your home number is a separate question. Its transfer options depend on your home provider.
Two lines, two different questions
Most travellers who switch phones before a trip have two lines to think about:
- Your home number, from your usual mobile provider
- Your travel eSIM, bought for the trip
They follow different rules. Your home provider decides how your number can move. The travel eSIM follows the rules of the provider that sold it. Treat them separately, and check each before you start.
How Apple's eSIM Quick Transfer works
On iPhone, Apple offers a feature called eSIM Quick Transfer. According to Apple's eSIM setup guide, it lets you move a SIM from an old iPhone to a new one without contacting your carrier, if the carrier supports it.
Apple lists a few conditions, including:
- Both iPhones are signed in to the same Apple Account
- The old iPhone is unlocked
- Both devices are close together with Bluetooth on
- Both devices run iOS 18.4 or later
The key words are "if your carrier supports it". The feature is a route your provider may or may not offer. It is not a promise that every eSIM can move.
What that means for a travel eSIM
Do not assume your travel eSIM will appear in the transfer options just because your home number does.
For ElloSim, the FAQ is clear: each QR code can only be used by one device, and an installed eSIM cannot be moved to another phone. That is why we recommend installing it on the phone you will actually travel with.
If you have already installed an ElloSim eSIM and now need to change phones, email support@ellosim.com with your order ID before deleting the eSIM. The team can check your order and explain what is possible. Please do not assume a replacement, a reinstall on another device or a refund will be available.
Don't delete the eSIM to fix a problem
It can be tempting to remove an eSIM and start again when something does not work. Apple advises against it. Its page on erasing an eSIM says not to erase one as a troubleshooting step unless your network provider tells you to. It also says that after erasing, you need to contact the provider to get a new one.
The same caution applies to travel eSIMs. If a line is not connecting, work through our no-internet checklist and keep the profile installed while you do.
Check this before you switch
Run through this list a few days before you fly:
- Decide which phone you are taking. Ideally, install the travel eSIM on that phone only.
- Check the new phone supports eSIM and is unlocked. Our compatibility guide explains how.
- Find your eSIM details. Note the order ID and the ICCID shown in your ElloSim order. Your phone's settings also list an ICCID for each installed line.
- Ask your home provider how your number moves. Quick Transfer, a QR code or a store visit are all possible, depending on the provider.
- Keep the old phone intact for now. Do not erase it, trade it in or delete any eSIM until you know each line is sorted.
- Contact support before deleting a travel eSIM. For ElloSim, email support@ellosim.com with your order ID.
Haven't installed it yet?
If you bought a travel eSIM but have not installed it, the switch is simpler. Set up your new phone first, then install the eSIM on the phone you will travel with.
Read the plan's start rule before you install, because some plans start at installation. Our guide on when to activate a travel eSIM explains the timing.
Selling or trading in the old phone
Apple recommends erasing eSIMs before you sell, trade in or give away a device. That step makes sense once each line has a new home. Do it last, after your home number works on the new phone and you have confirmed what will happen to any travel eSIM.
If you rely on your home number for WhatsApp or bank codes while abroad, see our guides on keeping your WhatsApp number and bank verification texts abroad.
FAQs
Can I move my ElloSim eSIM to a new phone?
According to our FAQ, an installed ElloSim eSIM cannot be moved to another device. Contact support with your order ID before deleting it.
Will Quick Transfer move my travel eSIM?
Only if the provider supports it. Don't assume a travel eSIM will transfer just because your home number does.
I deleted my eSIM by mistake. What now?
Our FAQ explains that you can usually reinstall it on the same phone using the original QR code, while the plan is still valid. If it won't work, email support@ellosim.com with your order ID.
Where can I check the rules?
See the ElloSim FAQ, or contact us before making changes.
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