How to Convert to eSIM From a Physical SIM.

To convert to eSIM, ask your own carrier: on a supported iPhone go to Settings, tap Cellular, tap Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, choose the number with the physical SIM, and tap Convert to eSIM. If that option is missing, your carrier can do it through its app, its website, or a store.

Only the carrier that owns your number can convert it. A travel eSIM from GEO is a separate data line that sits beside your number. It does not convert or replace your physical SIM. This article does not lock a price.

Key facts

• Converting a physical SIM to an eSIM keeps the same number on the same phone. Your carrier has to support it.
• On iPhone, Apple's path is Settings, Cellular, Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, then Convert to eSIM.
• On Google Pixel 7 or later, Google's path is Settings, Network and internet, SIMs, then Convert to eSIM.
• After the conversion, the physical SIM no longer works.
• Some carriers do it only in their app or in store, and some may charge for it.
• A travel eSIM is a second line for data. It is not a conversion.

How to convert to eSIM on iPhone

Apple's Set up cellular service on iPhone guide lists the steps, if your carrier supports it:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap Cellular, then Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM. Some regions say Mobile Data or Mobile Service.
• Choose the phone number that uses the physical SIM.
• Tap Convert to eSIM and follow the onscreen steps.

Apple notes that after you convert, the physical SIM no longer works. Apple's Set up eSIM on iPhone page also lists the phones that support eSIM: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later. Some carriers can convert the SIM while you move to a new iPhone with eSIM Quick Transfer.

How to transfer a physical SIM to eSIM on Android

Android menus differ by maker. Google's Convert a physical SIM to an eSIM page covers Pixel 7 and later on Wi-Fi:

• Open Settings, then Network and internet, then SIMs.
• Select the SIM you want to convert.
• Scroll down and tap Convert to eSIM, then follow the steps.

Google says to keep the physical SIM until you confirm the new eSIM works. On other Android phones, look for a similar option under SIM settings, or ask your carrier.

When the Convert option is missing

The option only appears when the phone, the software, and the carrier all support it. If you do not see it:

• Open your carrier's app and look for an eSIM or SIM swap option.
• Ask the carrier for a QR code or eSIM Carrier Activation.
• Visit a carrier store. In some countries an ID check is required.
• Ask about any fee before you start. Some carriers charge for a SIM change.

Apple keeps a list of carriers that offer eSIM on iPhone. Not sure your phone can hold an eSIM at all? Read Check Whether Your Phone Supports eSIM first.

Before you convert

• Connect to Wi-Fi you trust.
• Back up the phone, and make sure you can still sign in to your carrier account.
• Do not convert in the middle of a trip, when you may need your number for bank codes.
• Keep the old SIM until calls and texts work on the eSIM.

A travel eSIM is not a conversion

People often search how to convert to eSIM when they really want data abroad. You do not need to convert your home SIM for that. A GEO travel eSIM installs as a second line next to the number you already have, whether that number is on a physical SIM or an eSIM. GEO's FAQ says most plans are data-only, so your own number keeps handling calls and texts.

• Your home line stays as it is: physical SIM or eSIM.
• The travel line carries mobile data in the countries on the plan.
• Turn the home line's data switch off so it does not roam.

See Dual SIM: Home Number and Travel Data for how the two lines share one phone, and Keep Your Phone Number Active With an eSIM for the switches to leave on. The install steps are on how it works, and plans for 200+ countries are on country plans.

Related guides

• How to Transfer eSIM From One iPhone to Another
• eSIM vs a Physical SIM
• Your First Install of a Travel eSIM
• Add an eSIM on Android

Apple and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc. Google, Pixel, and Android are trademarks of Google LLC. GEO is not affiliated with Apple, Google, or any carrier. Conversion support, steps, and fees are set by each carrier and can change, so check with yours before you start.

FAQ

How do I convert my physical SIM to an eSIM?

On a supported iPhone, go to Settings, Cellular, Set Up Cellular or Add eSIM, pick the number, and tap Convert to eSIM. Otherwise ask your carrier.

Will I keep my phone number?

Yes. A conversion moves the same number from the card to an eSIM on the same phone.

What happens to the physical SIM after I convert?

It stops working. Keep it until the eSIM works, then follow your carrier's advice.

Why don't I see Convert to eSIM?

Your carrier, phone, or software may not support it. Use the carrier's app, a QR code, or a store visit.

Can GEO convert my SIM to an eSIM?

No. Only your own carrier can. A GEO travel eSIM is a separate data line that sits beside your number.

Do I need to convert my SIM to use a travel eSIM?

No. If your phone supports eSIM, the travel line installs next to your physical SIM.