How to Delete/Remove eSIM Profile (2026 Complete Guide)

Need to remove an eSIM from your phone? Maybe your travel plan expired, you're switching carriers, or you're preparing to sell your device. Whatever the reason, deleting an eSIM profile is straightforward—but there are important things to know first.

Unlike physical SIM cards that you simply pop out, eSIM deletion is digital and often permanent. Remove the wrong profile, and you might lose access to your phone number or data plan without an easy way to restore it.

This guide shows you exactly how to safely delete eSIM profiles on any device, what happens when you remove an eSIM, and how to avoid common mistakes that could leave you disconnected.

Quick Answer: Deleting an eSIM removes it permanently from your device. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Select eSIM > Remove Cellular Plan. On Android, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Select eSIM > Delete. Always verify which eSIM you're deleting before confirming, as you may need a new activation code to reinstall.

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Before You Delete: Important Things to Know

Don't delete your eSIM until you understand these critical points.

Deletion Is Usually Permanent

When you delete an eSIM profile, it's removed from your device completely. Unlike turning off a line (which keeps the eSIM stored but inactive), deletion means you'll typically need a new QR code or activation code to reinstall.

Most eSIM providers issue single-use QR codes. Once deleted, your original QR code won't work again.

Your Phone Number Isn't Deleted

Removing an eSIM from your phone doesn't cancel your phone number or service plan. Your account with the carrier remains active—you've just removed it from this specific device.

To fully cancel service, you must contact your carrier separately.

Consider Deactivating Instead of Deleting

If you might use the eSIM again later, turn it off instead of deleting it. Deactivation keeps the profile stored on your device so you can reactivate it anytime without needing a new QR code.

Delete vs Turn Off: What's the Difference?

Turn Off (Deactivate):

• eSIM remains stored on device
• No service until turned back on
• Can reactivate anytime instantly
• No new QR code needed
• Best for temporary disabling

Delete (Remove):

• eSIM completely removed from device
• Profile cannot be recovered
• Need new QR code to reinstall
• Frees up storage space (minimal)
• Best for permanent removal

When to Delete an eSIM Profile

Delete your eSIM in these situations:

1. Selling or Trading Your Phone

Always delete all eSIM profiles before selling, trading, or giving away your device. This ensures the new owner can't access your carrier accounts or personal information.

2. Expired Travel eSIM

Once your travel eSIM data is used up or the plan expires, you can delete it to declutter your phone. You'll need a new plan and QR code for future trips anyway.

3. Switching to Different Carrier

If you're permanently moving to a new carrier and won't use the old eSIM again, deletion frees up an eSIM slot (though most phones can store 8-10 profiles).

4. Troubleshooting Issues

Sometimes carrier support will ask you to delete and reinstall an eSIM to resolve connectivity problems. They'll provide a new QR code for reinstallation.

5. Factory Reset Preparation

While factory reset removes eSIMs automatically, manually deleting them first ensures clean removal and helps you verify you have backup QR codes if needed.

When NOT to Delete an eSIM Profile

Don't delete your eSIM if:

You're just temporarily not using it: Turn it off instead. You can reactivate later without hassle.

You're having connectivity issues: Try troubleshooting first. Check our eSIM troubleshooting guide before deleting.

You don't have a backup activation method: If you can't get a new QR code easily, keep the eSIM even if inactive.

You're switching phones temporarily: Keep the eSIM on your primary device if you'll return to it soon.

It's your only phone number: Don't delete your primary number's eSIM unless you have another way to stay connected.

How to Delete eSIM on iPhone

Follow these steps to remove an eSIM profile from any iPhone model.

Step-by-Step: Delete eSIM on iPhone

Step 1: Open Settings

Tap the Settings app on your home screen.

Step 2: Go to Cellular Settings

Tap "Cellular" (or "Mobile Data" in some regions).

Step 3: Select the eSIM to Delete

You'll see all your active and stored cellular plans listed. Tap the eSIM you want to remove. Each line shows:

• Label name (like "Travel," "Work," or carrier name)
• Phone number (if applicable)
• Primary or Secondary designation

Step 4: Scroll Down and Tap "Remove Cellular Plan"

At the bottom of the eSIM settings page, you'll see "Remove Cellular Plan" in red text. Tap it.

Step 5: Confirm Deletion

A confirmation dialog appears warning that this action cannot be undone. If you're sure, tap "Remove" to permanently delete the eSIM profile.

Step 6: Verify Removal

Return to Settings > Cellular. The deleted eSIM should no longer appear in your list of cellular plans.

Alternative Method: Erase All eSIMs at Once

To remove all cellular plans simultaneously:

Step 1: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone

Step 2: Tap "Reset"

Step 3: Select "Reset Network Settings"

This removes all eSIM profiles, WiFi passwords, and network settings. Use this when selling your device or performing complete cleanup.

What Happens After Deletion on iPhone

Once deleted:

• The eSIM profile is permanently removed
• You lose cellular service from that line
• The phone number is no longer accessible on this device
• If it was your only line, you'll need WiFi for internet
• iMessage and FaceTime will switch to your remaining line (if any)

How to Delete eSIM on Samsung Galaxy

Samsung devices have slightly different menu layouts depending on the model and Android version.

Step-by-Step: Delete eSIM on Samsung

Step 1: Open Settings

Tap the Settings app from your app drawer or notification shade.

Step 2: Navigate to SIM Settings

The exact path varies by model:

Option A: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager

Option B: Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager

Step 3: Select the eSIM

Tap the eSIM profile you want to remove. You'll see details like:

• Carrier name
• Phone number
• Mobile plan status

Step 4: Tap "Remove" or "Delete"

Look for a "Remove," "Delete," or trash icon. The button location varies:

• Three-dot menu (top-right corner)
• "Remove" button at bottom of screen
• Trash icon next to the eSIM name

Step 5: Confirm Deletion

A warning appears explaining the eSIM will be permanently removed. Tap "Remove" or "OK" to confirm.

Step 6: Verify Removal

Return to SIM Manager. The deleted eSIM should no longer be listed.

Samsung-Specific Notes

Multiple eSIM storage: Samsung phones can store several eSIM profiles. Make sure you're deleting the correct one.

Primary vs Secondary: If deleting your primary line, Samsung will ask which remaining line should become primary.

Samsung Knox: Work profiles managed by Knox may restrict eSIM deletion. Contact your IT administrator if you can't remove a work eSIM.

How to Delete eSIM on Google Pixel

Google Pixel uses stock Android, making the process straightforward.

Step-by-Step: Delete eSIM on Pixel

Step 1: Open Settings

Tap Settings from your app drawer.

Step 2: Go to Network Settings

Tap "Network & internet" then "SIMs" or "Mobile network."

Step 3: Select the eSIM to Remove

You'll see all SIM cards (physical and eSIM) listed. Tap the eSIM you want to delete.

Step 4: Tap "Erase" or "Delete eSIM"

Scroll to the bottom and tap "Erase SIM" or "Delete eSIM."

Step 5: Confirm Removal

Read the warning and tap "Erase" to permanently remove the eSIM profile.

Step 6: Restart (Optional)

While not required, restarting your Pixel after eSIM deletion ensures clean removal and proper network reconfiguration.

How to Delete eSIM on Other Android Devices

The process is similar across Android phones, with minor menu variations.

General Android Instructions

Step 1: Open Settings

Step 2: Find SIM/Network settings (usually under "Network & Internet," "Connections," or "SIM cards")

Step 3: Select the eSIM to remove

Step 4: Look for "Delete," "Remove," or "Erase" option

Step 5: Confirm deletion

Brand-Specific Locations

Xiaomi/Redmi: Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks > Select eSIM > Delete

OnePlus: Settings > Mobile network > SIM & network settings > Select eSIM > Remove

Oppo: Settings > SIM card & mobile data > Select eSIM > Remove SIM

Motorola: Settings > Network & internet > Mobile network > Advanced > Carrier > Delete

How to Turn Off eSIM (Without Deleting)

If you're not sure about permanently deleting, deactivate the eSIM instead.

Deactivate eSIM on iPhone

Step 1: Settings > Cellular

Step 2: Tap the eSIM you want to deactivate

Step 3: Toggle off "Turn On This Line"

The eSIM stays stored but provides no service. Toggle it back on anytime to reactivate instantly.

Deactivate eSIM on Android

Step 1: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs

Step 2: Select the eSIM

Step 3: Toggle off "Use SIM" or similar option

This keeps the eSIM profile stored while disabling all connectivity.

What Happens After Deleting an eSIM?

Understanding the consequences helps avoid surprises.

Immediate Effects

• No cellular service: You can't make calls, send texts, or use cellular data from that line
• Profile permanently removed: The eSIM no longer appears in your phone's settings
• Number inaccessible: That phone number cannot be used on this device unless reinstalled
• Apps may switch lines: iMessage, WhatsApp, etc. will use your remaining active line

What Doesn't Change

• Your account remains active: The carrier still has your plan and number
• Billing continues: Monthly charges keep accruing until you cancel with carrier
• Your phone number exists: It's just not on this device anymore
• Other devices unaffected: If you use the same number on another device (like Apple Watch), it continues working

Can You Get It Back?

Usually, you need a new QR code from your provider to reinstall a deleted eSIM. Some carriers allow reinstallation through their app or website, but most require:

• Contacting customer support
• Requesting a new activation code
• Scanning a new QR code
• Waiting for carrier verification

This process can take minutes to hours depending on the provider.

How to Cancel eSIM Service Completely

Deleting the eSIM from your phone doesn't cancel your service or stop billing.

To Fully Cancel eSIM Service:

Step 1: Contact Your Carrier

Call, email, or use your carrier's app to request cancellation. Some carriers allow online cancellation, others require phone calls.

Step 2: Request Service Termination

Clearly state you want to cancel service, not just remove the eSIM from your device. Specify:

• Account number or phone number
• Cancellation date (immediate or end of billing cycle)
• Whether to port the number to another carrier

Step 3: Get Confirmation

Request written confirmation of cancellation via email. Save this for records in case billing disputes arise.

Step 4: Delete the eSIM Profile

Once service is canceled and confirmed, delete the eSIM from your phone.

Step 5: Verify Final Bill

Check your final bill for any unexpected charges or prorated amounts.

Number Porting vs Cancellation

If keeping your number (porting to new carrier):

DON'T cancel service first. Start the port with your new carrier, which automatically cancels your old service. Canceling before porting can make you lose the number.

If not keeping your number:

Cancel service with your carrier, wait for confirmation, then delete the eSIM.

Preparing to Sell or Trade Your Phone

Before selling your device, properly remove all eSIM profiles.

Complete Device Preparation Checklist

Step 1: Backup Important Data

Save contacts, photos, and data to cloud storage or computer.

Step 2: Unpair Connected Devices

Disconnect Apple Watch, wireless headphones, or other paired accessories.

Step 3: Sign Out of Accounts

• iPhone: Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out (disables Find My iPhone and iCloud)
• Android: Settings > Accounts > Remove Google account

Step 4: Delete All eSIM Profiles

Remove each eSIM one by one using the methods described above.

Step 5: Factory Reset

• iPhone: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings
• Android: Settings > System > Reset > Factory data reset

Step 6: Verify Clean Slate

After factory reset, power on the phone briefly to confirm it shows the setup screen with no accounts or data.

Troubleshooting eSIM Deletion Issues

Sometimes deletion doesn't work as expected. Here's how to fix common problems.

Problem: "Remove" Option Is Grayed Out

Possible causes:

• Device managed by organization (work/school)
• Parental controls enabled
• Carrier restrictions
• Software bug

Solutions:

• Contact IT department if work-managed device
• Check Screen Time restrictions (iPhone) or Digital Wellbeing (Android)
• Update phone to latest software
• Restart phone and try again

Problem: eSIM Deleted But Still Shows Network Bars

Solution: Restart your phone. Sometimes the network indicator takes time to update.

Problem: Can't Find the eSIM to Delete

Solution: Check if the eSIM is just turned off rather than deleted. Look in all cellular plan listings.

Problem: Error Message During Deletion

Solutions:

• Connect to stable WiFi
• Turn off VPN if active
• Clear phone cache (Android)
• Force close Settings app and reopen
• Reset network settings (last resort)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will deleting eSIM cancel my service?

A: No. Deleting removes the eSIM from your device but doesn't cancel your carrier account. You must separately contact your carrier to cancel service and stop billing.

Q: Can I reinstall a deleted eSIM?

A: Usually you need a new QR code from your carrier. The original QR code typically won't work again after deletion.

Q: What happens to my phone number when I delete eSIM?

A: Your phone number remains with your carrier—it's just not accessible on this device. You can reinstall it with a new QR code or access it from another device.

Q: Should I delete or turn off my travel eSIM?

A: For expired travel eSIMs, deletion is fine since you'll need a new plan next trip anyway. If the plan has remaining data, turn it off instead to use later.

Q: Does factory reset delete eSIM?

A: Yes. Factory reset removes all eSIM profiles along with all other data. However, it's best practice to manually delete eSIMs first.

Q: Can someone else use my eSIM after I delete it?

A: No. eSIM profiles are tied to your carrier account. Deleting from your device doesn't transfer it to anyone else.

Q: How long does eSIM deletion take?

A: Instant. Once you confirm deletion, the eSIM is immediately removed from your device.

Q: Do I need internet to delete eSIM?

A: No. Deletion is a local device operation that doesn't require network connectivity.

Conclusion

Deleting an eSIM profile is simple but permanent. The process takes just seconds—the key is being certain you want to remove it, since you'll typically need a new activation code to reinstall.

Remember the crucial distinction: deleting removes the eSIM permanently, while turning it off keeps it stored for later reactivation. Choose based on whether you'll use that eSIM again.

Before deleting:

• Verify you're removing the correct eSIM
• Consider deactivating instead if temporary
• Understand deletion doesn't cancel carrier service
• Know you'll need a new QR code to reinstall
• Delete all eSIMs before selling your phone

Whether you're preparing to sell your device, clearing out expired travel eSIMs, or switching carriers, the deletion process is quick and straightforward on both iPhone and Android devices.

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