What's an eSIM and how does it work?
Overview
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your device, such as a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you download your plan straight to your device.
If your device is eSIM-compatible, it can store more than one eSIM profile. Each profile has its own phone number and data plan, and you can switch between them. Once your eSIM is set up, it connects to our network just like a physical SIM.
To get started, explore:
Shop our eSIM deals
All our SIM only plans are available as an eSIM. Just choose the plan that suits you and select eSIM at checkout.
Pay monthly
A 30-day, 12 or 24-month contract.
Pay as you go Plus
A rolling 30-day plan that automatically renews.
What are the benefits of an eSIM?
Built-in security
An eSIM is built into your device, so it can't be physically removed. This helps reduce the risk of SIM-swap fraud.
Use two SIMs on one device
Use two numbers at once on compatible devices with dual SIM. Keep your UK number active for work or travel.
Less plastic waste
It's kinder to the planet as there's no plastic SIM card or packaging.
How does eSIM compare to physical SIMs?
| eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|
Getting started | Available instantly when you choose a plan | Needs to be delivered or collected |
Activation | Set up digitally using a QR code | Insert the SIM card into your device |
Changing networks | Download a new eSIM profile | Order a new SIM card |
Switching devices | Transfer your eSIM to another compatible device | Move the SIM card to your new device |
Best for | People who prefer a digital setup | People using older devices or who prefer a physical SIM |
Is your device compatible with eSIM?
Most modern devices are eSIM compatible. To check if your phone supports eSIM, dial *#06#. If you're shown an EID number, your device supports eSIM. Alternatively, see our list of eSIM-compatible devices (including phones, tablets, and smartwatches).
Your device must be network unlocked to use a Vodafone eSIM. If it's locked to another provider, you'll need to contact them to unlock it first.
Activate or manage your eSIM
Activate your eSIM if you're setting one up for the first time. Manage your eSIM to convert from a physical SIM, transfer it to a new device, or delete it.
How to set up your eSIM
Once you've registered for an eSIM, you'll need a stable WiFi connection and a network-unlocked device to set it up.
Download your eSIM
We'll email you a QR code. Scan it using your device's camera to download your eSIM or enter the details manually. You can also enter the details manually.
Choose your eSIM
If you have a SIM card already installed, choose which SIM to use for your data and default number. You can choose the eSIM for both - this can be changed at any time.
Start using your eSIM
Your eSIM will now be active and ready to use on our network!
Watch our short video to see the different ways you can set up an eSIM.
SIM cards have gone digital. Unlike its physical counterpart, an eSIM may already be in your device. It's quicker to set up, easier to manage, and completely digital. Most new devices support eSIM, but you can check right here on our support page to see if your phone is listed. Depending on how you've got here, there are a few ways to get your eSIM up and running.
Option 1
You've purchased one of our SIM only plans. Here's what you do. Use another device to display the QR code. If you don't have another device to scan the QR code, don't panic. You can enter the details manually from the email attachment. If you already have a SIM in your phone, you'll be asked which one to use for data and calls. Pick the Vodafone eSIM and that's it.
Option 2
You've purchased a phone and eSIM from Vodafone. Wait for your phone to be delivered. Your Vodafone eSIM profile will be linked to your device. When your phone arrives, turn your device on and connect to WiFi. Follow the on-screen instructions when prompted. Download your eSIM. If you choose to skip these steps, you have the option to download your eSIM via a QR code sent to your email.
Option 3
So you're already a Vodafone customer and want to switch to an eSIM. Just head into my Vodafone, manage my SIM and follow the prompts. Got an iPhone from 2019 or later running the latest software? You can do it directly on your phone using Apple Quick Transfer. Just go to Settings, Mobile Service, convert to eSIM, or transfer your physical SIM or eSIM from one iPhone to another when setting up your device. And that's it.
So there you have it, three simple ways to get your eSIM up and running. If you need any more support, please take a look at our frequently asked questions at the bottom of our help page.
Trialling our network?
Follow these steps to install your trial eSIM and try our network.
1. Download the My Vodafone app
Log in using the username and password you created when signing up. The app will prompt you to install your trial eSIM.
2. Choose your eSIM settings
Set your original SIM as the default for calls and texts. Then choose your Vodafone trial eSIM for mobile data and turn on data switching.
3. Switch back when the trial ends
When your trial ends, your Vodafone data will stop working. To use your original SIM for mobile data again, go to Settings > Mobile Service (for Apple) or Network and Internet (for Android).
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can keep your current phone number when you switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM.
No, a phone number can only be active on one SIM at a time.
If your phone supports dual SIM, you can use an eSIM and a physical SIM together. Each SIM will have its own phone number.
No, an eSIM can be only installed on one device at a time.
Yes, if your device supports it, it can store more than one eSIM profile.
Yes, some laptops, tablets and smartwatches support eSIM.
To learn if your phone, tablet, or smartwatch supports eSIM, see our full list of eSIM-compatible devices
To check if your laptop supports eSIM, visit our Device guides page. Choose your device, go to Specifications, then scroll to SIM. If eSIM is listed, your device is compatible with eSIM.