Transfer an eSIM from an Android to an iPhone: A step-by-step guide

Can you transfer an eSIM from an Android to an iPhone?

Yes, you can transfer an eSIM from an Android to an iPhone. But unlike a physical SIM card, you cannot simply swap an eSIM.

Instead, the process happens digitally — either through the direct transfer feature (available only for iPhone models running iOS 26 or later), carrier activation, or a QR code transfer.

But before we cover the specific steps, let’s go over what you need to do before you make the switch.

Steps to take before you transfer an eSIM from an Android to an iPhone

Preparation is key to a successful switch. Complete these few checks first to ensure the process is smooth sailing.

1. Check if your iPhone is eSIM compatible. You can only transfer the eSIM to a device that supports eSIMs. First, you should check if your iPhone is eSIM compatible. All iPhone models from the iPhone XS and XR onwards, including all newer versions, are eSIM compatible.

2. Prepare your iPhone. Before transferring your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone, update your iPhone to the latest supported iOS version.

3. Make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection. To successfully transfer your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone, it's important to have a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection on both devices. Your eSIM information travels over the internet, and a stable connection guarantees that all the essential details arrive intact and uncorrupted.

4. Back up your data. Protect your contacts and files by saving a copy before you start the transfer. Since Android and iOS devices work differently, having a backup makes sure you won’t lose any important information during the switch.

5. Find a carrier or a worldwide service provider that supports eSIMs. Before transferring your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone, make sure your network service provider supports it on both Androids and iPhones. For instance, if you're considering AT&T, simply visit its website or give its customer service a quick call to confirm it offers eSIM services on both platforms.

6. Check for direct transfer support. Some carriers now support transferring your eSIM directly from an Android to an iPhone using a feature called "Transfer from Android," explicitly found in the iPhone settings. Major providers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in the USA, and Deutsche Telekom in Germany, currently support this feature. To use it, you must meet a few requirements:

   • Your iPhone must be running the latest iOS version (iOS 26 or later), and your Android device typically needs to run Android 16 or later operating system (check with your manufacturer to be sure).

   • Both devices must have Bluetooth on and be placed next to each other to pair successfully.

How to transfer an eSIM from an Android to an iPhone

You have three methods to choose from when transferring your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone: using the direct transfer feature, activating through the carrier, or scanning a QR code. Each transfer method offers a simple way to get your new iPhone up and running:

• Method #1: Direct transfer (iOS 26+)

• Method #2: eSIM carrier activation

• Method #3: QR code transfer

Method #1: Direct transfer (iOS 26 or later)

If your devices support it, direct transfer is by far the simplest and fastest way to transfer your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone. Follow these steps if you are using iOS 26 or later and have already completed the initial iPhone setup:

1. Open “Settings” on your iPhone.

2. Tap “Set up cellular.” If you already have an active plan, go to “Cellular” > “Add eSIM” instead.

3. Tap the option “Transfer from Android.”

4. Wait for a QR code to appear on your iPhone screen.

5. Scan the QR code using your Android device's camera.

6. On your Android, select the phone number you want to transfer to your new device and tap “Transfer.”

7. Tap “Yes” if asked to make this number your primary line.

8. Tap “Done” on your iPhone to finish the process.

9. Make a test call to ensure your new connection is working. 

Direct transfer without a QR code

If you prefer to transfer your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone without a QR code (or if you can’t scan it), follow these steps after you have set up your iPhone:

1. On your iPhone, select “Other options” under the QR code.

2. On your Android, go to “Google services” > “All services” and tap “Pair with iPhone or iPad.”

3. Select “Transfer eSIM.”

4. On your Android, enter the session ID and the pairing code that is displayed on your iPhone, and tap “Next.”

5. On your Android, select the phone number that you want to transfer to your iPhone and tap “Transfer.”

6. If asked, tap “Yes” to use the transferred SIM as your primary eSIM.

7. When the transfer is complete, tap “Done” on your iPhone and then tap “Ok.”

8. Make a phone call on your iPhone to check its cellular connectivity.

Your eSIM service on your Android device will deactivate automatically once the switch is complete.

Method #2: eSIM carrier activation

If you cannot use the direct transfer feature, eSIM carrier activation is your second-best option. This method connects your iPhone to the network using the unique EID (eUICC ID) number — a 32-digit serial number linked to the built-in eSIM chip inside your phone.

Since you are moving from an Android device, your carrier doesn't know about your new iPhone yet, so it can't push your plan automatically. Also, it doesn’t have its EID number, so you need to register the device manually first.

Start by finding the unique EID number printed on your iPhone’s box label. If you don't have the box, just turn on the phone and tap the “i” icon in the corner of the "Hello" screen to see it. If you have already set up your iPhone, you can find it by going to “Settings” > “General” > “About."

With this number ready, contact your carrier (via phone, live chat, or its mobile app) or log in to its website to link your phone number to the new iPhone. T-Mobile, for example, handles eSIM transfers between Apple and Android devices via the T-Life app. Once that is done, you are ready to follow the steps below.

If you haven’t set up your iPhone yet

Follow these steps to transfer your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone if you haven’t set up your iPhone yet:

1. Power up your iPhone and swipe on the “Welcome” screen to begin your setup process.

2. Connect to a Wi-Fi network.

3. Once the background activation is complete, you should see a notification saying "Carrier cellular plan ready to be installed" or "Choose a cellular plan.”

4. Select the eSIM plan you want to transfer from your Android.

5. Tap "Continue" to confirm.

6. Once you see "Cellular setup complete," tap "Continue" to proceed.

7. Complete the rest of the iPhone setup.

If you have already set up your iPhone

If you are already on the home screen and have arranged the transfer with your carrier, follow these steps:

1. Tap the notification saying "Carrier cellular plan ready to be installed." (If you missed the notification, open "Settings" > "Cellular" > “Add eSIM” and tap the notification there.)

2. Tap "Continue" and make a test call to verify the connection.

Method #3: QR code transfer

If your carrier didn't activate your phone remotely after you contacted it about the transfer, but instead provided you with an eSIM QR code — whether via email, a printed voucher, or your online account — you can simply scan it to get connected.

If you haven’t set up your iPhone yet

You can transfer your number and activate the eSIM during the initial iPhone setup by simply scanning your new QR code:

1. Power up your iPhone and swipe on the “Welcome” screen to begin setup.

2. Follow the setup process until you reach the "Set up cellular" screen.

3. Select "Use QR code."

4. Point your iPhone camera at the QR code. You can open it on another screen, like your Android phone you’re transferring from, a tablet, or a computer.

5. Wait for the eSIM activation process to complete.

6. When you see the "Cellular setup complete" message, tap "Continue." 

7. Make a test call to verify the connection.

Note: If you’re asked for a confirmation code during setup, enter the number your carrier provided.

If you have already set up your iPhone

Alternatively, if you have already set up your iPhone and need to activate an eSIM using a QR code, follow these steps:

1. Open the Camera app and scan your QR code.

2. Tap the notification "Cellular plan detected" when it appears.

3. Tap “Continue” at the bottom of the screen.

4. Tap “Add cellular plan.”

5. If prompted, enter the confirmation code provided by your carrier.

Note: If you are using iOS 17.4 or later, you can often skip the camera. Simply tap and hold the QR code image directly in your email or browser and select “Add eSIM.”

Why didn't my eSIM transfer to my new iPhone?

If your eSIM transfer from an Android to an iPhone didn’t go well, don't worry. It usually comes down to a simple connection error or a missing step. Below are some ways to help you resolve the problem:

• Restart both devices. A quick restart is often the best way to troubleshoot connection issues. Rebooting both your Android and your new iPhone gives the system a fresh start and clears temporary glitches that may block the activation.

• Check or reset your network connection. eSIM transfers require a stable internet connection. If your Wi-Fi is weak or drops during the setup, the download will fail. If you have already restarted your devices and the issue persists, try resetting your network settings on your iPhone. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Transfer or reset iPhone” > “Reset” > “Reset network settings.” Note that this action will erase your saved Wi-Fi passwords, so have them ready to reconnect before you try the eSIM transfer again.

• Update your iPhone. Outdated software often causes compatibility issues. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Software update” to make sure your iPhone is running the latest available iOS version.

• Check if your iPhone is carrier locked. Your iPhone cannot accept an eSIM from a new carrier if it is locked to a previous network. To check if your iPhone is carrier locked, go to “Settings” > “General” > “About” and scroll down to “Carrier lock” (or “Network provider lock”). You need to see "No SIM restrictions." If it says "SIM locked," you have to contact the original carrier to unlock the device before you can proceed.

• Enable Bluetooth for wireless transfers. If you are trying to use the "Transfer from Android" feature on iOS 26 or later, both devices must have Bluetooth on. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on for both your Android phone and your new iPhone, and keep them placed right next to each other.

• Verify carrier compatibility. Not all carriers support the direct transfer feature from Android. If the transfer fails repeatedly, simply skip the transfer tool and use Method #2 (carrier activation) or Method #3 (QR code).

• Contact your carrier. If the QR code isn't scanning or says "expired," you likely need a fresh one. Contact your carrier directly to request a new activation code or specific help with your account.

Transfer an eSIM from an Android to an iPhone: Key takeaways

Let’s summarize what we’ve covered in this article so far:

• You have three main options to transfer your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone: direct transfer, carrier activation, or QR code transfer. The best method for you depends on your specific phone model and your carrier.

• Before starting the transfer, make sure your iPhone is eSIM compatible. All iPhone models from iPhone XS and later, including newer versions, support eSIM.

• For a smooth transfer, update both devices to the latest software, connect to stable Wi-Fi, and back up your data to keep your contacts and messages safe.

• If both your Android and iPhone devices support the direct transfer feature, enable Bluetooth on both devices and keep them near each other. This method is the easiest and fastest way to transfer your eSIM from an Android to an iPhone.

• If direct transfer isn't available, use carrier activation. Simply provide your carrier with the unique EID number found on your iPhone to link the eSIM on your Android to the new device.

• If your carrier provides a QR code for activation, scan the code during the iPhone setup or in the iPhone settings to complete the activation process and link your eSIM to the device.

• If the transfer doesn’t work, troubleshoot by checking your Wi-Fi connection, updating your iPhone’s software, or restarting both devices. You may also need to reset network settings. If necessary, contact your carrier for support.

In case you need to move in the opposite direction, we also have a dedicated guide for transferring your eSIM from an iPhone to an Android. Alternatively, if you want a broader overview of the process, check out our article on how to transfer an eSIM to a new iPhone.