iPhone eSIM management
How to delete eSIM from iPhone (and not regret it later)
Deleting an eSIM on iPhone is easy. The mistake is deleting it when you actually meant to turn it off. If you remove the eSIM profile, reinstalling may require the original QR code or activation details—annoying at home, painful when you’re already traveling. This guide shows the safe removal steps, what happens after deletion, and how Zetsim users can avoid common traps.
Delete vs turn off: pick the right option first
On iPhone, there are two actions people mix up:
- Turn off eSIM line: the eSIM stays installed but stops connecting. You can re-enable it anytime.
- Delete (remove) eSIM: the eSIM profile is erased from your iPhone. Reinstalling may require the original QR/activation details.
If you might reuse the eSIM (common with travel eSIMs), turning it off is usually the smarter move than deleting it.
Before you delete: quick safety checklist
Take 60 seconds and confirm these items. It saves a lot of hassle.
- You have another active line for calls/SMS (or you’re okay with being temporarily unreachable).
- You’re not relying on the eSIM for mobile data right now. If you are, switch your data line first.
- You can reinstall if needed (QR code or activation details available, plus stable Wi‑Fi).
- You know which plan you’re removing (labeling matters if you have multiple eSIMs installed).
If you’re about to board a flight, deleting an eSIM is a risky time to experiment. Disable the line instead and clean it up later.
Step-by-step: how to delete an eSIM from iPhone
On most iPhones, deleting an eSIM means removing its cellular plan from Settings.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Under SIMs / Cellular Plans, tap the eSIM you want to remove.
- Tap Remove Cellular Plan.
- Confirm when prompted.
After removal, that eSIM profile disappears from your list of plans. Your iPhone will no longer be able to connect using that eSIM unless you add it again.
If you’re using two lines (Dual SIM): switch data first
Many people delete a travel eSIM while it’s still selected as the mobile data line. That can instantly cut your internet connection.
Before removing, do this:
- Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data.
- Tap Cellular Data.
- Select your primary SIM (or another active line).
Once you switch the data line, removing the travel eSIM is much less disruptive.
What happens after you delete an eSIM?
Here’s what typically changes (and what usually doesn’t):
- The eSIM line is gone: you can’t use it for data/calls until reinstalled.
- Your other SIM(s) remain: removing one plan doesn’t erase your physical SIM or other eSIMs.
- Messaging apps continue: WhatsApp and similar apps work over whatever data connection you still have.
- iMessage/FaceTime may re-check numbers: if you used the removed line for iMessage, confirm your send/receive settings afterward.
Deleting an eSIM is a device-level action. It doesn’t automatically “cancel” a plan across every system. It simply removes the profile from your iPhone.
When you should NOT delete an eSIM
- You might reuse it soon (common for travel plans).
- You don’t have the QR code or activation details anymore.
- You’re currently abroad and it’s your only working data connection.
- You installed it recently and your real goal is just to stop it connecting (turn off the line instead).
If the goal is “stop using it,” disabling the line is reversible and safer.
Better alternative: how to turn off an eSIM without deleting it
If you’re using a Zetsim travel eSIM and want to keep it available, disabling the line is usually the best option.
- Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data.
- Select the eSIM line.
- Toggle Turn On This Line to OFF.
This keeps the profile installed, which makes future trips smoother.
Troubleshooting: “Remove Cellular Plan” is missing or greyed out
If you can’t remove the plan, one of these is usually happening:
- MDM/device management restrictions: some work-managed iPhones restrict cellular changes.
- iOS UI differences: menu labels can vary; look under Cellular Plans/SIMs for the plan detail page.
- The plan is already removed: if you don’t see the plan, there’s nothing to delete.
If the eSIM is not visible but the phone still behaves like it has it, restart the device and check Settings → Cellular again.
I deleted my eSIM by mistake. Can I recover it?
Usually, the solution is to re-add the eSIM plan rather than “recover” it. If you still have your QR code or activation details, you can install it again:
- Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data.
- Tap Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code or enter details manually (if available).
If you don’t have the QR/activation details, you’ll need access to the original purchase information or the provider’s support flow to issue installation details again.
FAQ: deleting eSIM from iPhone
How do I delete an eSIM from my iPhone?
Go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → select the eSIM under Cellular Plans/SIMs → tap “Remove Cellular Plan” → confirm. This deletes the eSIM profile from your iPhone.
Is removing an eSIM the same as turning it off?
No. Turning off disables the eSIM line but keeps the profile installed. Removing deletes the profile from your iPhone and may require reinstalling with a QR code or activation details.
Will deleting an eSIM cancel my plan?
Deleting an eSIM removes the profile from your iPhone. It doesn’t automatically guarantee cancellation of a plan; it simply stops that plan from being usable on your device until reinstalled.
What happens if I delete the eSIM that I’m using for mobile data?
You’ll lose mobile data immediately unless another line is selected for Cellular Data. Before deleting, switch Cellular Data to your primary SIM or another active plan.
Can I reinstall an eSIM after deleting it?
Often yes—if you have the QR code or activation details. Go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM and follow the install steps.
Should I delete my Zetsim travel eSIM after a trip?
If you might travel again, it’s usually better to turn the eSIM line off rather than delete it. Delete only if you’re sure you won’t need it again or you have your reinstall details available.
Why can’t I find “Remove Cellular Plan” on my iPhone?
The wording can vary by iOS version, or the device may be managed by an organization (MDM) with restrictions. Check the eSIM plan’s detail page under Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data.
Travel-ready tip: keep your eSIM organized
If you use multiple travel eSIMs, label each plan clearly (country or trip name) and delete only when you’re certain you won’t reuse it. For many travelers, the best workflow is: install a Zetsim plan, use it, then turn the line off until the next trip.
External reference: Apple: Add a cellular plan with eSIM
