If you can't set up an eSIM on your iPhone

Find out what to do if you can't set up an eSIM on your iPhone.

Find out more about eSIM

What you need

• Your new iPhone must be connected to a Wi-Fi network or hotspot. In some countries and regions, iPhone models that are eSIM-only can activate without a Wi-Fi network.

• An active mobile plan and eSIM on your iPhone from a service provider that supports eSIM

• Your iPhone or iPhone devices need the latest version of iOS they can use.

Follow these steps

After following each step below, open Control Centre by swiping down from the top right-hand corner of the screen. Check if your service provider appears in the status bar. If not, go to the next step.

1. Turn Aeroplane Mode on and off.

2. Open the Settings app and tap Cellular. Check if the number you're trying to activate is shown. If it is, turn off the line and then turn it back on again.

3. Restart your device.

On iPhone models running iOS 18, you can download the latest version of the Apple Support app to run additional diagnostics that may help determine the source of your device’s issue.

Check the service provider settings

Check the carrier settings on your device.

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Tap General

3. Tap About.

4. Scroll down to the eSIM section. Your iPhone's carrier name and a version number is next to Carrier. Tap the version number. If an update is available, you'll see a prompt to select OK or Update.

Contact your service provider

If you still can’t set up an eSIM on your iPhone, contact your service provider.

Gathering the following information ahead of time may be helpful:

• Note the error message you are seeing on your iPhone.

• Collect your iPhone and service provider account identifiers:

  • Your phone number

  • Your service provider account password and/or PIN

  • Your iPhone’s IMEI or EID. To find them, go to Settings > General > About.