eSIM Transfer and Multi-Device Use: Can You Use the Same eSIM on Two Phones?

TL;DR: An eSIM is not tied to the device you purchase it on, but it becomes linked to the device you install it on. You generally cannot use the same eSIM on two phones simultaneously. However, eSIM transfer to a new device is increasingly supported through carrier tools, iOS/Android features, or provider policies. Nomad eSIMs are designed for one-time installation and are not transferable once activated.

What Happens When You Install an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of the traditional SIM card. Unlike physical SIMs, it’s downloaded onto your device using a QR code or activation details. It’s important to separate purchase vs. installation:

• Purchase device: You can buy an eSIM plan on any device (laptop, desktop, tablet). The purchase isn’t linked to that device.
• Installation device: The link happens when you scan the QR code or enter the activation details. At that moment, the eSIM is tied to that phone or tablet.

For example, if you’re wondering whether activating an eSIM affects your mobile identity, the answer is no - installing an eSIM doesn’t change your phone number.

eSIM Transfer: Moving Your eSIM to a New Phone

One of the most common queries is: “Can I transfer my eSIM to a new phone?” The answer depends on your carrier or provider.

Carrier-Supported Transfer

• Many mobile network operators (MNOs) now let you request an eSIM transfer when you upgrade devices.
• Some require you to log into your account and re-provision the eSIM. Others need your device’s EID (eSIM ID) to issue a replacement.

Device Transfer Features

• iPhone: Since iOS 16, Apple supports quick eSIM transfer between iPhones during setup or via Settings > Cellular > Transfer eSIM.
• Android: Support varies, but newer Samsung and Google Pixel devices are adding eSIM transfer tools.

Nomad eSIM Transfer Policy

Nomad travel eSIMs are one-time install profiles. Once activated, they cannot be transferred to a new device. If you change or lose your phone, you’ll need to purchase a new eSIM.

👉 Related reading: IMEI vs ICCID vs EID (understanding device identifiers often required for transfer).

Can You Use the Same eSIM on Two Phones?

The short answer: No, you can’t actively use the same eSIM on two phones at the same time. Here’s why:

• Network registration: Mobile networks only allow one active connection per SIM profile. Two simultaneous devices would cause conflicts.
• Security: Limiting an eSIM to one device prevents cloning, fraud, or unauthorized sharing.

Alternatives if You Need Multi-Device Connectivity

1. Hotspot sharing: Use your eSIM on your main phone, then share the connection via hotspot. Curious how this affects your data plan? Here’s our guide: Does hotspot use more data?
2. Multiple eSIMs/plans: Buy separate eSIMs for each device. Nomad eSIM offers affordable options for travelers needing data across phones, tablets, or laptops.
3. Carrier multi-device plans: Some carriers allow you to share one plan across devices (e.g., phone + smartwatch).

👉 If your concern is simultaneous setup across devices rather than shared use, we cover that separately in our article on installing an eSIM on multiple devices at the same time.

How to Remove or “Unlink” an eSIM from Your Device

If you no longer need your eSIM, you can delete it:

• Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data > eSIM Profile > Remove/Delete.
• This immediately disconnects the plan from your phone.

For step-by-step removal guidance, check out our tutorial on how to delete an eSIM from iPhone or Android.

Note: With Nomad eSIMs (and most travel eSIMs), once deleted, the profile cannot be reinstalled with the same QR code. You’ll need to buy a new one or contact support.

Privacy & Security Note

Deleting or transferring an eSIM only affects connectivity, not your personal identifiers. Devices are primarily tracked via IMEI, not the eSIM itself. For more on this, read: Can eSIMs be tracked?.

Conclusion

An eSIM isn’t tied to the device you purchase it on. It only becomes linked when you install it. While transferring an eSIM to a new phone is increasingly supported by carriers and device features, Nomad eSIMs remain one-time installs. And while you can’t run the same eSIM on two phones simultaneously, practical alternatives like hotspots, multiple profiles, or multi-device carrier plans provide flexibility.

By understanding the limits of eSIM transfer and multi-device use, you’ll be better equipped to manage connectivity when upgrading phones or balancing multiple devices.

Frequently Asked Questions about eSIM Linking and Transfer

Can I use the same eSIM on two phones at once?

No. An eSIM can only provide service to one device at a time. You can transfer it to another phone, but not use it simultaneously.

How do I transfer my eSIM to a new phone?

The process depends on your carrier or device. iPhones running iOS 16+ support direct transfers. Carriers may also issue new profiles when you upgrade devices. Nomad eSIMs are single-use and not transferable.

Is an eSIM permanently tied to my phone?

Not permanently, but once installed, the eSIM is linked to that device. Moving it often requires a transfer request with your carrier or a new profile.

Can I buy an eSIM on one device and install it on another?

Yes. You can purchase a Nomad eSIM on any device and then install it on the phone or tablet you want to use.

What happens if I delete my eSIM?

Deleting removes the plan from your device and stops service immediately. For most travel eSIMs, including Nomad, the original QR code or activation details become invalid after deletion, meaning you cannot simply reinstall it. You would likely need to obtain a new eSIM profile or contact customer support for assistance.