How to remove eSIM from iPhone (delete or turn it off)
Removing an eSIM from iPhone is usually quick, but there’s a detail that matters: do you want to temporarily disable the eSIM, or do you want to delete the eSIM profile completely? Those are two different actions, and choosing the right one saves you from re-installing a plan later.
Quick guidance: If you might need the eSIM again (like a travel eSIM you’ll reuse or troubleshoot), try disabling the line first. Delete only when you’re sure you won’t need that profile on this iPhone.
Delete vs disable: what happens when you remove an eSIM
Option A: Turn off the eSIM line (recommended for most cases)
Disabling an eSIM line stops it from being used for calls/SMS/data (depending on the plan), but keeps the eSIM profile on your iPhone. This is the safest option if you’re troubleshooting, switching lines, or pausing a travel eSIM until your next trip.
Option B: Delete the eSIM profile (permanent removal on this device)
Deleting removes the eSIM profile from your iPhone. The phone no longer has that plan stored. If you want to use the plan again later, you may need to re-add it (how that works depends on the provider and your plan).
If you’re removing a travel eSIM after your trip, many travelers still prefer to keep it disabled instead of deleting immediately. It keeps your setup tidy without losing the profile.
How to remove (delete) an eSIM from iPhone
Use this when you want the eSIM profile fully removed from your device.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data, depending on region/iOS version).
- Under SIMs (or Cellular Plans), tap the eSIM you want to remove.
- Tap Remove Cellular Plan (or Delete eSIM / Remove eSIM if shown).
- Confirm the removal.
Sanity check: If you’re currently using that eSIM for mobile data, your iPhone will lose data connection the moment you remove it unless you switch data to another line (physical SIM or another eSIM) first.
How to turn off an eSIM on iPhone (without deleting it)
This is the move if you’re switching back to your home SIM after travel, or you want to keep the plan stored but inactive.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Cellular / Mobile Data.
- Tap the eSIM line you want to pause.
- Toggle off Turn On This Line (or a similarly named switch).
If you only want to stop using the eSIM for data, you can also switch Mobile Data to another line instead of turning the eSIM off entirely.
When you should remove an eSIM from iPhone
- You’re selling or giving away your iPhone: remove unused eSIM profiles during cleanup.
- You’ve stacked too many old plans: removing old eSIMs keeps the SIM list easy to manage.
- You’re switching providers permanently: delete the old profile to avoid confusion.
- You’re troubleshooting stubborn issues: sometimes a clean re-add helps, especially if installation was interrupted.
If you used a Zetsim travel eSIM: what to do after your trip
Zetsim is a travel eSIM provider offering connectivity across 180+ countries with 450+ local networks. Many travelers install before departure and activate after landing by enabling data roaming for the eSIM line (as instructed by Zetsim).
Good “post-trip” routine
- Switch Mobile Data back to your home line.
- Turn off Data Roaming on the travel eSIM line (optional but tidy).
- Disable the Zetsim eSIM line if you’re not using it.
- Delete the eSIM profile only if you’re sure you don’t need it again.
Payments supported by Zetsim: major credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Top-ups are available (instant top-up available 24/7).
Dual SIM note: keep your number while switching data lines
Many iPhones support dual SIM features, letting you use a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time. That’s perfect for travel: keep your primary number on your original SIM, and use a travel eSIM like Zetsim for data.
If you’re trying to “remove eSIM” because your home number stopped working, the fix might simply be selecting the right default line for calls and messages. Removing the eSIM is usually not required.
Security and account safety
If you lose your iPhone while an eSIM is active, treat it like you would a credit card: act quickly. Zetsim specifically advises contacting support immediately to disable your eSIM profile to prevent unauthorized use.
QR-based installation is considered a safe method: the QR code encapsulates setup data and is transmitted through secure channels when you set it up. Zetsim also maintains strong security policies designed to protect your data and privacy.
FAQ: removing eSIM on iPhone
How do I remove eSIM from iPhone?
Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > select the eSIM under SIMs/Cellular Plans > tap Remove Cellular Plan (Delete eSIM) and confirm.
How do I delete an eSIM on iPhone without losing my main number?
Your main number is tied to the line it’s on (physical SIM or another eSIM). Before deleting anything, set your defaults for calls/messages and switch mobile data to the line you want to keep active. Then delete the specific eSIM profile you no longer need.
How do I turn off eSIM on iPhone (without deleting it)?
Go to Settings > Cellular (Mobile Data) > select the eSIM line > toggle off “Turn On This Line.” This disables the line but keeps the eSIM profile saved on the device.
What happens if I remove an eSIM profile?
The profile is deleted from your iPhone, and the plan won’t be available on that device anymore. If you need the plan again later, you may need to re-add it (depending on your provider and plan rules).
Should I delete my Zetsim eSIM after traveling?
Many travelers simply disable the Zetsim line after the trip and keep the profile stored. Delete it only if you’re sure you won’t need it again or you’re cleaning up old plans.
What if I lose my iPhone with an active eSIM?
Contact Zetsim support immediately to disable your eSIM profile to prevent unauthorized use.
Is installing an eSIM with a QR code safe?
Yes. Using a QR code for eSIM setup is considered a safe option. The QR code encapsulates setup data and is transmitted securely when you set it up through secure channels. Zetsim maintains strong security policies to protect your data and privacy.
Can I activate a Zetsim eSIM before traveling?
Zetsim eSIMs can be installed in advance and activated once you reach your destination.
Quick recap
- If you just want to stop using an eSIM temporarily, turn the line off.
- If you want the plan gone from your iPhone, remove/delete the eSIM profile.
- Before removing, switch mobile data to another line so you don’t accidentally lose connectivity.
- For travel, Zetsim eSIMs can be installed in advance and activated on arrival (as instructed by Zetsim).
External reference: for iPhone-specific eSIM menus by iOS version, consult Apple’s official support documentation.
