If you’ve just purchased a new iPhone and are wondering how to transfer your eSIM without complications, you can relax. The process is much simpler than you might think, and you won’t lose any data during the transfer. As long as you have iOS 16 or a later version, there’s absolutely nothing to worry about.

Does it sound like a complicated technical process? In reality, transferring an eSIM from one iPhone to another is within reach of any user. And here’s some good news: there is no limit to how many times you can perform this operation, giving you complete flexibility whenever you change devices.

In this article, we’ll help you master the eSIM transfer process step by step, covering everything from technical requirements to the specific details of your carrier, whether it’s Movistar, O2, Vodafone, or Digi. The only condition is that both your old iPhone and your new one support eSIM technology, which shouldn’t be a problem if you have a model from iPhone XS onward.

Technical requirements: what do you need before starting?

To transfer your eSIM from one iPhone to another without issues, it’s essential to meet several basic technical requirements. Your iPhone must be a compatible model: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or any later version.

Both devices must run iOS 18.4 or later. This operating system version is crucial for ensuring the entire process works properly.

Before starting the transfer, make sure you have the following ready:

✅ Both iPhones must be linked to the same Apple ID
✅ Your old iPhone must be unlocked with the device passcode
✅ Both phones must remain close to each other
✅ Bluetooth must be enabled on both devices
✅ You need a stable WiFi connection

Want to confirm whether your iPhone supports eSIM? Dial *#06# on your phone keypad. If an EID number appears on the screen, your device supports this technology. It’s also important to verify that your carrier supports eSIM before making any changes.

💡 Tip: Traveling abroad and need an eSIM for your destination? With HOLASIM, you can connect instantly in more than 190 countries without complications or paperwork. Simply choose your destination, select a data plan, and complete the payment. Try HOLASIM today and keep your iPhone connected wherever you go!

Transfer your eSIM step by step: the process you need to know

eSIM Quick Transfer has become the most effective method for moving your connectivity between Apple devices. Once both iPhones are prepared according to the requirements mentioned earlier, the process becomes surprisingly straightforward.

Follow these steps to transfer your eSIM correctly:

👉 On your new iPhone, open Settings > Cellular > Set Up Cellular.
👉 Select the mobile plan you want to transfer from your old iPhone. If a list of numbers does not appear, tap Transfer from Nearby iPhone.
👉 On your old iPhone, review the instructions on the screen and confirm the transfer by tapping Transfer Number.
👉 If prompted for a verification code, enter it exactly as it appears on your new iPhone.
👉 Wait for the mobile plan to activate on your new device. Once activated on the new device, it will automatically deactivate on the old one.
👉 If the message “Finish setting up your plan with your carrier” appears, tap it to complete the process through your carrier’s website.

For carriers like Movistar, O2, and Vodafone, the process becomes even simpler thanks to the “eSIM Quick Transfer” service, which allows you to complete the transfer directly from your device settings without additional steps.

eSIM transfer depending on your carrier

Each carrier handles eSIM transfers with its own particularities, which are worth understanding. How does the process vary depending on your mobile provider? Below are the key characteristics of each one.

Movistar and O2 stand out for offering the smoothest process for their users. Both carriers allow the transfer directly through your iPhone settings without contacting customer service. Their quick transfer service makes switching devices extremely easy.

In the case of Vodafone, you’ll also find compatibility with the eSIM Quick Transfer service. However, if you experience any issues during the process, you can request assistance through the My Vodafone app or contact their specialized technical support.

Orange and Digi require a prior verification of device compatibility with the eSIM service. In most cases, you will be able to follow Apple’s standard process, although occasionally you may need to contact your carrier to activate the service on your new iPhone.

As we can see, Yoigo and MásMóvil also support eSIM transfers, but you must follow the specific protocols detailed in their respective mobile apps or official websites.

Transferring your eSIM between iPhones: simpler than expected

As you can see, transferring an eSIM between iPhone devices is far more accessible than many users expect. Apple has developed a system that removes technical complexity, especially from iOS 16 onward.

The requirements we reviewed are quite basic: compatible devices from iPhone XS onward, the same Apple ID, Bluetooth enabled, and proximity between both phones. Nothing outside the knowledge of the average user.

Each carrier may have its own specific details, but the core process remains consistent and easy to follow, without requiring specialized technical knowledge. The flexibility of being able to repeat this transfer as many times as necessary gives you complete freedom when changing devices.

For frequent travelers, mastering eSIM transfers becomes particularly valuable. However, dealing with international carriers can sometimes complicate the process.

👉 That’s why we recommend purchasing an international eSIM from HOLASIM, where you’ll find flexible plans with instant activation in more than 190 countries, avoiding complications and guaranteeing immediate connectivity no matter your destination.

eSIM technology represents a major advancement compared to traditional physical SIM cards. It eliminates the need to handle small cards and greatly simplifies switching between devices. If you’ve just purchased a new iPhone, you now have the exact knowledge needed to transfer your eSIM smoothly while keeping all your data intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

📌 How can I transfer my eSIM from one iPhone to another?
To transfer your eSIM, make sure both iPhones are updated to iOS 18.4 or later. On the new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Set Up Cellular. Select the plan to transfer or tap “Transfer from Nearby iPhone.” Follow the on-screen instructions on both devices to complete the transfer.

📌 What requirements must I meet to transfer my eSIM without issues?
You need two eSIM-compatible iPhones (iPhone XS or later), both running iOS 18.4 or later, linked to the same Apple ID. Make sure both devices are close together, with Bluetooth enabled and connected to a stable WiFi network. The old iPhone must also be unlocked with its passcode.

📌 What happens to my old eSIM after transferring it to a new iPhone?
When you activate the cellular data plan on your new iPhone, the eSIM on the previous device automatically deactivates. This ensures that your number and plan are fully transferred to the new device without duplication.

📌 Does the eSIM transfer process vary depending on the carrier?
Yes, there may be slight variations. Carriers like Movistar, O2, and Vodafone offer the “eSIM Quick Transfer” service for a simpler transfer. Others such as Orange, Digi, Yoigo, and MásMóvil may require additional steps or contacting customer support to complete the transfer.

📌 Is there a limit to how many times I can transfer my eSIM between iPhones?
No, there is no limit to how many times you can transfer your eSIM between compatible devices. This gives you complete flexibility to switch iPhones whenever you need, without restrictions on transfer frequency.