An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital alternative to a physical SIM card. It allows you to access mobile networks directly from your device without needing to insert or remove a physical card. In some cases, the eSIM profile may be deleted either intentionally or by mistake during device resets or network changes. In this guide, you can learn what it means to delete an eSIM, how it affects your mobile plan or data, and how to reactivate the eSIM if needed.

What does deleting an eSIM mean?

Deleting an eSIM means removing the mobile network profile associated with your provider from your device’s settings. While this action works in a similar way to removing a physical SIM card, it does not cancel your data plan or end your subscription. Once the eSIM is deleted, your device will no longer be able to use mobile data, make calls, or send and receive SMS through that profile. Even after deletion, your mobile plan usually stays active with the provider. If needed, the eSIM profile can often be reinstalled later. This action does not affect personal data stored on your device such as apps, messages, or photos.

What happens if you accidentally delete your eSIM?

If you delete your eSIM by mistake, your device will immediately lose access to mobile services associated with that profile. This includes mobile data, SMS, and voice calls. However, your data plan with the provider usually remains active. In most cases, the eSIM can still be recovered or reinstalled. Here’s what typically happens:

• Your eSIM plan remains active with the provider.

• Mobile services stop working until the eSIM is restored.

• Reinstallation is often possible via your provider’s app or a new QR code.

• If manual recovery doesn’t work, support from your provider may be required.

Disclaimer: The impact of accidentally deleting an eSIM may vary depending on your device model and mobile provider. While most users can recover their plan and services, the specific outcomes and recovery steps are not guaranteed to be the same in all cases.

Can I recover or reuse a deleted eSIM?

Yes. In many cases, a deleted eSIM can be reactivated or reused, depending on how your mobile provider manages eSIM profiles. Some global eSIM providers, like Roamless, allow reinstallation through their app or by issuing a new QR code, while others may require you to contact customer support to receive a new activation profile.

How to recover and reactivate your deleted eSIM on iPhone

1. Open Settings and go to Cellular or Mobile Data.

2. Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.

3. Choose one of the available options:

   
   

   • Scan a QR code provided by your mobile provider.

   • Or select Enter Details Manually to input the SM-DP+ server and activation code.

4. Once installed, ensure Data Roaming is enabled if you are using the eSIM abroad.

Note: If you delete your eSIM, you’ll have to reach out to your carrier to request a replacement and complete the setup process for the new eSIM [1].

How to recover and reactivate your deleted eSIM on Android

1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet or Connections.

2. Tap SIMs or SIM Card Manager, then choose Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan.

3. Select Enter Details Manually to input the SM-DP+ address and activation code.

4. Finish the setup, and make sure both Mobile Data and Data Roaming are turned on in the new eSIM profile settings.

Disclaimer: eSIM reactivation procedures may differ depending on your mobile provider. If the original QR code or profile cannot be reused, you may need to request a new activation credential.

How long does it take to reactivate an eSIM?

It usually takes just a few minutes. On an iPhone device, the process typically completes in 1 to 2 minutes. For most Android devices, it may take slightly longer depending on the device model and software version. If a new QR code or activation link is needed, the total time will also depend on your provider’s response time.

For more information, you can also read our post on How Long Does It Take to Activate eSIM.

How to activate or reactivate your Roamless eSIM

Roamless eSIM activation is fast and straightforward. You can activate it directly through the app in just a few minutes. iPhone and Android devices follow slightly different steps based on available methods:

Table: Roamless eSIM activation steps for iPhone and Android devices

Reactivation tips:

• If you’re reactivating after switching to a new device, make sure your eSIM has been deleted from your old device before installing it again.

• Check that the global eSIM is enabled in your current device settings and that data roaming is turned on.

• If any issues persist, you can contact Roamless support directly through the app or website using the simple contact form provided.

For more information, you can also check out our posts on How to activate eSIM on iPhone, How to activate eSIM on Android, How to activate eSIM on Xiaomi, How to Check if eSIM is Activated on iPhone.

Frequently asked questions

Will deleting an eSIM remove carrier lock?
- No. Deleting an eSIM does not remove a carrier lock. The lock is connected to your device and service contract, not the eSIM itself. For more information, you can read our guide on How to Unlock iPhone.

What happens to your eSIM if you reset your phone?
- If you perform a factory reset, the eSIM may be deleted depending on your device and settings. Some phones let you keep the eSIM during reset, while others remove it entirely. Always review the prompt before confirming [2].

If I delete my eSIM, can I get it back?
- In most cases, yes. You can usually reinstall it through your provider’s app or by scanning a new QR code. If reactivation doesn’t work, customer support can help you obtain a new activation profile.

Does deleting an eSIM erase personal data?
- No. Deleting an eSIM only removes the mobile network profile. Your photos, apps, messages, and other personal data are not affected [3].

Should you delete an eSIM?
- Only delete an eSIM if you no longer need the mobile plan, are switching devices with a new eSIM, or are advised to do so by your provider. Avoid deleting it before transferring to another device or without a backup method. For more information, you can read our guide on How to Transfer an eSIM to a New iPhone.

Sources

[1] Apple Support. ‘’How to erase the eSIM on your iPhone or iPad’’, March 2025. - https://support.apple.com/en-us/102421

[2] Google Pixel Community. ''If I format my phone , E sim will be deleted or not?'', May 2023. - https://support.google.com/pixelphone/thread/215580725/if-i-format-my-phone-e-sim-will-be-deleted-or-not?hl=en

[3] Apple Support Community. ‘’Does deleting an esim erase my information, e.g., my phone's name?’’, June 2025. - https://discussions.apple.com/thread/256084793?sortBy=rank