How to delete an eSIM from an iPhone easily and safely
Wondering how to delete an eSIM from an iPhone easily and safely? Whether you're switching providers, selling your device, or simply cleaning up unused profiles, removing an eSIM must be done correctly to avoid losing connectivity or incurring unexpected fees. In this guide by The Bitjoy, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, along with expert tips to help you stay secure and connected throughout.
Wondering how to delete an eSIM from an iPhone easily and safely? Whether you're switching providers, selling your device, or simply cleaning up unused profiles, removing an eSIM must be done correctly to avoid losing connectivity or incurring unexpected fees. In this guide by The Bitjoy, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, along with expert tips to help you stay secure and connected throughout.
Wondering how to delete an eSIM from an iPhone easily and safely? Whether you're switching providers, selling your device, or simply cleaning up unused profiles, removing an eSIM must be done correctly to avoid losing connectivity or incurring unexpected fees. In this guide by The Bitjoy, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, along with expert tips to help you stay secure and connected throughout.
Can you remove an eSIM from an iPhone?
Yes, you absolutely can. Removing an eSIM from an iPhone is a quick and easy process that can be done whenever needed, whether your plan has ended, you’ve returned from a trip abroad, or you’re switching to a different carrier.
You can also reinstall a new eSIM later, as long as you have a stable internet connection. However, before deleting your eSIM, it’s important to carefully consider a few key factors to avoid losing service or incurring unexpected charges.
When you should consider deleting your eSIM
There are several situations where deleting your eSIM makes sense:
- After international travel: If you installed a travel eSIM for use in another country, only delete it once you’ve left that country and no longer need the local connection.
- When selling or transferring your device: Before giving your iPhone to someone else, it’s important to delete all eSIM profiles to protect your personal data and ensure a clean setup for the new user.
- Switching carriers: If you’re moving to a new carrier, wait until your new service is active and the old eSIM is fully deactivated (no longer showing signal) before deleting it. This ensures you don’t lose connectivity during the transition.
Things to check before deletion (network, carrier policies)
Before removing an eSIM from your iPhone, make sure to:
- Have a stable internet connection: If you plan to install another eSIM immediately after deletion, ensure you’re connected to Wi-Fi or have another active mobile data connection. Deleting your only active eSIM without an alternative connection may leave you without service temporarily.
- Understand your carrier’s cancellation process: Removing an eSIM from your device doesn’t automatically cancel your mobile plan. You could still be billed if the service hasn’t been properly terminated. To avoid extra charges, contact your carrier to formally cancel the plan according to their guidelines.
Deleting an eSIM is straightforward, but doing it at the right time and with the right precautions ensures a smooth experience without service interruptions.
How to delete an eSIM from an iPhone
Removing an eSIM from your iPhone is a straightforward process, whether you’re using the latest iPhone 16 or an earlier model like the iPhone 11. It only takes a few steps to erase the profile, but make sure you know what to expect before and after the process.
Step-by-step guide for iPhone users
Follow these instructions to delete an eSIM safely on your iPhone:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on “Cellular” (or "Mobile Data" depending on your region).
- You’ll see a list of active mobile plans. Select the eSIM you want to delete.
- Tap “Delete eSIM” or “Delete Plan”, depending on your iOS version.
- A confirmation message will appear. Tap “Delete” again to finalize the removal.
Tip: If you have multiple eSIMs, make sure you’re selecting the correct plan before deleting.
This action removes the eSIM profile from your device, but it doesn’t end your subscription with the carrier. You still need to contact them directly if you want to cancel your plan.
How to delete eSIMs from providers like The BitJoy
If you're using an eSIM from digital providers such as The BitJoy, the process to remove it is the same as with any other carrier:
- Go to Settings > Cellular.
- Tap the BitJoy eSIM profile listed under “Cellular Plans.”
- Tap “Delete eSIM” or “Remove Plan” and confirm.
After removing the profile, your iPhone will no longer be connected to BitJoy’s network. However, deleting the profile doesn't cancel your subscription, you’ll still be charged unless you log into The BitJoy’s app or website to cancel your plan manually.
Always double-check the provider’s cancellation process before deleting your eSIM to avoid unwanted charges.
Choose your the eSIM plans :
What happens after you delete your eSIM
Once deleted, the eSIM profile is completely removed from your device. This means:
- You’ll lose cellular access tied to that plan immediately—no calls, texts, or mobile data.
- If it was your only mobile plan, your phone will switch to Wi-Fi only until another SIM or eSIM is activated.
- The eSIM can’t be reinstalled unless the provider allows you to re-download it or issue a new QR code.
If you’re planning to switch carriers, travel internationally, or upgrade your plan, make sure you have a new eSIM ready or a backup internet connection available to stay connected.
Can a deleted eSIM be recovered or reactivated?
Once an eSIM is deleted from your device, recovering it is not as simple as restoring a deleted file. In most cases, a deleted eSIM cannot be reinstalled using the same QR code or activation credentials—especially if your provider supports only one-time installation, which is common with many eSIM services.
If you’ve accidentally removed an active eSIM, your best option is to contact your carrier or service provider as soon as possible. Some carriers may offer reactivation or issue a new eSIM profile, but this depends entirely on their policy. It’s not a guaranteed process and may involve additional steps such as identity verification or plan reactivation.
If you're unsure whether to delete your eSIM, consider disabling it temporarily instead. Many iPhones allow you to turn off an eSIM without erasing it, which is a safer choice if you plan to use it again in the near future.
Tips to avoid accidental deletion in the future
To minimize the risk of losing your eSIM by mistake, keep the following best practices in mind:
- Label your eSIMs clearly: When installing a new eSIM, give it a unique and recognizable name (e.g., “Japan Travel – July” or “Work Data Plan”). This makes it easier to manage and prevents confusion.
- Avoid deleting in a rush: Double-check which eSIM you’re removing—especially if your phone has multiple eSIM profiles installed.
- Disable, don’t delete: If you only want to stop using the eSIM temporarily (e.g., after returning from a trip), just turn it off in your settings rather than erasing it completely.
- Keep a copy of the activation details: If your provider allows multiple installations, store your QR code or activation code securely. You may be able to use it again if you reinstall it on the same or another device.
- Limit clutter: Periodically review and clean up any unused or expired eSIM profiles to keep your mobile settings organized and reduce the chance of deleting the wrong one.
By following these precautions, you can manage your eSIMs more effectively and avoid disruptions to your mobile service.
Deleting an eSIM doesn't have to be complicated or risky. By following the steps above and keeping a few important precautions in mind, you can ensure the process is smooth and secure. Now that you know how to delete an eSIM from an iPhone easily and safely, you’ll be able to manage your device with more confidence—whether you're upgrading, traveling, or simply optimizing your mobile setup.
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