4 min read

How Many eSIMs Can an iPhone Have?

iPhones can store multiple eSIM profiles and activate them as needed. The exact number depends on your iPhone model. Here is the complete breakdown.

eSIM storage vs active eSIM limits

iPhones have two limits: how many eSIM profiles can be stored, and how many can be active simultaneously. iPhone 13 and later can store up to 8 eSIM profiles but only have 2 active at once. You can delete old eSIMs and install new ones anytime.

eSIM limits by iPhone model

  1. 1
    iPhone XS / XS Max / XR (2018): 1 eSIM active, 1 physical SIM
  2. 2
    iPhone 11 series (2019): 1 eSIM, 1 physical SIM
  3. 3
    iPhone 12 series (2020): 1 eSIM, 1 physical SIM
  4. 4
    iPhone 13 series (2021): up to 8 stored, 2 active, 1 physical SIM
  5. 5
    iPhone 14 (US): 2 eSIM active simultaneously, NO physical SIM slot
  6. 6
    iPhone 15 series: 2 eSIM active, up to 8 stored, US models are eSIM-only
  7. 7
    iPhone 16 series: 2 eSIM active, up to 8 stored, US models are eSIM-only

How to switch between eSIM profiles on iPhone

  1. 1
    Go to Settings → Cellular
  2. 2
    You will see all stored eSIM plans listed
  3. 3
    Tap any plan to activate it
  4. 4
    You can have your home eSIM/physical SIM + one travel eSIM active at the same time
  5. 5
    Switching takes about 10 seconds

Managing eSIM storage

When you reach the storage limit (typically 8 eSIMs), you need to delete an old profile before adding a new one. Go to Settings → Cellular → tap the eSIM to remove → Remove Cellular Plan. Note: deleting an eSIM is permanent unless your provider can reissue it.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I use two travel eSIMs at the same time on iPhone?
On iPhone 13+, yes — you can have two eSIMs active simultaneously. However, only one eSIM can carry data at a time. You can set one as the data line and use the other for calls.
What happens if I delete an eSIM?
Deleting an eSIM removes it permanently from your device. The plan is typically gone. Contact LTE.app support to check if your specific plan can be reinstalled — some plans allow one reinstallation.

Troubleshooting guides

🔧 iPhone eSIM Not Working?🔧 How to Remove or Delete an eSIM

Related guides

📖 What Is an eSIM?
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How Many eSIMs Can an iPhone Have? (2026 Guide) — LTE.app