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Can I Transfer My eSIM to Another Phone?
Many travelers ask: Can I move my eSIM to another phone if I change devices, upgrade, or lose my phone?
The answer depends on whether the eSIM has already been activated.
- 👉 For NoveSIM eSIMs: You can transfer the eSIM only if it has not been activated yet — meaning it has never connected to a mobile network.
- Once an eSIM connects to a network for the first time, it becomes linked to that device and cannot be transferred.
How eSIM installation works
Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIM profiles are installed digitally and tied to your device during activation.
This means an eSIM is:
- Downloaded securely
- Installed on one device
- linked after first network connection
Because of this system, transfer rules are stricter than with physical SIM cards.
When you CAN transfer a NoveSIM eSIM
You can move your eSIM to another phone only if:
- The eSIM has never connected to a network
- Mobile data was never turned on
- Activation has not started
- No data has been used
In simple terms: If the eSIM has not been activated yet, it can still be installed on another device.
When transfer is NOT possible
A NoveSIM eSIM cannot be transferred if:
- It has already connected to a mobile network
- Activation has started
- Data usage has begun
- Validity period has started
Once activation occurs, the eSIM becomes linked to that specific device and cannot be moved. If you switch phones after activation, you’ll need to install a new plan.
👉 Browse available plans:
https://novesim.com/destinations/
How to move an eSIM to another phone (before activation)
If your eSIM hasn’t been activated yet:
- Step 1 — Remove from old phone -> Go to: Settings → Mobile Data → eSIM → Remove
- Step 2 — Install on new phone -> Use either: original QR code
or manual activation details
Manual activation guide: https://novesim.com/how-to-activate-esim-manually/
- Step 3 — Activate -> After installation: Set Mobile Data = eSIM & Enable roaming
Activation timing explained: https://novesim.com/does-esim-work-immediately-after-landing/
Can I use one eSIM on two phones?
- No. An eSIM profile can only be active on one device at a time. It cannot be duplicated or shared across multiple phones simultaneously.
What if I lost my phone?
If your phone is lost:
- Your eSIM profile cannot be accessed without unlocking the device
- It cannot be used remotely
- You can safely install a new plan on another phone
Security guide: https://novesim.com/is-esim-safe-to-use-when-traveling/
Is transferring eSIM safe?
Yes. eSIM provisioning uses:
- Encrypted carrier systems
- Secure authentication
- Device-level protection
This makes unauthorized transfers extremely difficult.
Best practices before switching phones
- Save your QR code or activation details
- Confirm transfer rules before installing
- Install only when ready to use
- Make sure the eSIM hasn’t activated yet
Final recommendation
If you might change phones before your trip:
- Install your eSIM only when ready to use
- Keep activation details saved
- Verify compatibility first
Compatibility checker: https://novesim.com/compatible-devices/
Key rule to remember
- 🔒 NoveSIM Transfer Rule: An eSIM can only be transferred before its first network connection. After activation, the profile becomes locked to that device.
Need a travel eSIM for your device? 👉 https://novesim.com/destinations/
Frequently asked questions
Can I transfer my NoveSIM eSIM to another phone?
Yes, but only if it has not been activated yet. Once the eSIM connects to a network, it becomes linked to that device and cannot be transferred.
Can I use the same eSIM on two devices?
No. An eSIM can only be active on one device at a time.
Do I need a new QR code if I change phones?
If your eSIM has already been activated, you will need a new plan.
Is it safe to transfer eSIM?
Yes. eSIM activation uses encrypted carrier provisioning systems.