How can I Change My eSIM Plan?

Changing your eSIM plan might sound technical, but it’s actually simple once you know the steps.

Let’s say you’re running out of data while travelling. Or your current plan is slow. Or you just found a better offer. With eSIM, you don’t need to wait in line or take out your SIM card. You can switch to a new plan  right from your phone.

But here’s the catch. The process is different for iPhones, Androids, and laptops. And not all phones handle multiple plans the same way.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how you can change your eSIM plan, when to do it, and what to avoid  whether you’re at home or abroad.

Can You Really Switch eSIM Plans Easily?

Yes, you can. That’s one of the best things about using an eSIM.

Unlike physical SIM cards, there’s nothing to remove or insert. An eSIM is just a small software chip inside your phone. Your mobile plan works through a digital profile  and you can delete or replace it anytime.

So if you’re not happy with your current plan, or you’re going to a new country, changing it is easy. Just get a new eSIM QR code, scan it, and activate the fresh plan. No store visits. No paperwork. Just a few taps.

This also helps when you’re travelling. If your plan doesn’t work well in a new place, you can quickly switch to a local provider  without touching your SIM tray.

So if you’ve ever asked, “how can I change my eSIM plan without removing anything?”  the answer is: your phone already supports it. You just need to know where the settings are.

Changing Plans While Traveling

Let’s say you activated an international eSIM before leaving India. It worked fine for the first country, but now you’ve entered another one and it’s not connecting. This happens often with regional plans or single-country packs. Instead of buying a SIM at the airport, you can switch instantly to a local eSIM by scanning a new QR code. This gives you better speed, better pricing, and saves you from roaming troubles.

Switching from One Provider to Another

Sometimes the issue isn’t the country  it’s the provider. You might be using a global eSIM brand, but the signal keeps dropping or support is slow. Or maybe the app crashes, or top-ups don’t go through. At that point, it makes sense to delete the old plan and switch to another provider with better ratings in that country. Since eSIM plans are easy to replace, there’s no harm in changing when needed.

Upgrading from Limited to Unlimited Plans

You may have started with a 1GB or 3-day eSIM plan to test the waters. But then your needs increase, maybe you’re using maps, video calls, or Instagram more than expected. Instead of buying daily top-ups, it’s better to switch to a weekly or unlimited plan. Most providers let you scan a new QR and activate it right away. Once done, the old plan can be deleted, and you’re back online without lag.

Step-by-Step: How to Change Your eSIM Plan on iPhone

If you’re using an iPhone, changing your eSIM plan is easier than you think. You don’t need to visit a store, call customer support, or wait hours for activation. In most cases, you can delete your old plan, scan a new QR code, and start using your fresh data plan within minutes.

This is especially useful when you’re travelling. Suppose your current plan runs out or doesn’t work well in a new country, just switch to a better one. iPhones give you full control from the Settings app. And if you’re using providers like Baztel, scanning and activating takes less than two minutes.

All you need is a stable Wi-Fi connection or a second SIM to stay online during the switch. Below are the exact steps to delete the old eSIM, install a new one, and set it as your primary plan for calls, data, and travel use.

Delete Old eSIM Profile

First, you need to remove the current eSIM from your device. Go to Settings → Mobile Data → eSIM Plans, and tap on the active plan. You’ll see an option that says “Remove Mobile Plan”  tap that. It deletes the eSIM profile from your iPhone but doesn’t touch your physical SIM or other data. Make sure you have internet access (via Wi-Fi or another SIM) before deleting, so you can add a new one without delays.

Scan New eSIM QR Code

Once the old plan is removed, it’s time to activate the new one. Your provider would have emailed you a QR code or given it inside the app. Open Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM, then tap Use QR Code. Point your camera to the code and wait for a few seconds. Your phone will download the new eSIM plan. If you’re using Baztel, the QR activates instantly and doesn’t require any additional PIN or configuration.

Set New Plan as Primary

After the new plan is added, you’ll see an option to label it  like “Work”, “Travel”, or “Baztel“. You can choose a name and then select it as your Primary Data Plan. Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Default Line and pick the newly added eSIM. This ensures all calls, texts, and data go through the right network. If you’re using dual eSIMs, make sure you switch off the older one to avoid confusion.

How to Change eSIM Plan on Android Devices

Most Android phones now support eSIM  but the steps may vary slightly based on your brand. Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi, OnePlus  all use different menus and labels. That’s why many users feel unsure when switching their eSIM plan on Android.

But the overall process is still simple. You remove your current eSIM, scan a new one, and set it as your active mobile network. No tools. No physical cards. Just a few taps in your settings.

Before starting, make sure your Android device is eSIM compatible and unlocked. Also, connect to Wi-Fi or use a second SIM to stay online during setup. This will help you scan the QR code without interruptions.

Once you’re ready, follow the steps below. These work on most Android phones released after 2021.

Delete Old eSIM Profile

Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs or Mobile Network. Tap on the active eSIM profile and select Remove or Erase eSIM. Confirm when asked. This deletes the old mobile plan but doesn’t affect your phone’s storage, apps, or other SIM cards. If you face an error, restart the phone and try again.

Scan New eSIM QR Code

Now go back to Network Settings → Add SIM → Use QR Code. Point the camera to the new QR code you received from your provider. Wait a few seconds. The phone will download and install the new eSIM. You’ll get a success message once done. Some phones may ask for a confirmation PIN, which is usually in your welcome email.

Set as Default Mobile Plan

After the new eSIM is installed, go to SIM Manager or Preferred SIM Settings. Choose your new plan for Mobile Data, Calls, and SMS. If you’re using dual SIMs, name the new eSIM (like “Europe Trip” or “Work Plan”) to avoid confusion. Also turn off the old eSIM to prevent signal clashes.

Can I Change eSIM Plans Without Deleting the Old One?

Yes, in many phones you don’t need to delete your old eSIM plan to activate a new one. Both iPhone and Android support multiple eSIM profiles. You can store 5–8 eSIMs (sometimes more), but only one or two can stay active at a time.

So if you’re a frequent traveler or someone who uses local eSIMs in every country, this feature is super handy. Just add a new eSIM, and switch between plans based on where you are.

Let’s say your India plan is still active, but now you’ve reached Germany. You can keep the India eSIM saved but activate the Germany eSIM for data. Later, you can switch back without scanning again.

This setup helps if you travel often, use business and personal plans, or want to compare signal strength between networks. Just remember to name your eSIMs clearly to avoid mix-ups. And always switch off unused profiles to save battery.

Troubleshooting eSIM Plan Switching Issues

Switching an eSIM plan should be smooth. But sometimes, it just refuses to work. Maybe the new plan doesn’t show up, or your phone flashes an error you’ve never seen before. This section helps you figure out what’s wrong and what you can do about it  without running to the nearest tech expert. Whether you’re stuck on the activation screen or your network won’t connect after a switch, these are real-world fixes. Most problems are small things: a missed step, a locked setting, or even an outdated software version. Let’s look at the most common ones travelers face.

Activation Errors

If you scan the QR code and nothing happens, don’t panic. It usually means the plan isn’t activated from the backend. Some providers need you to complete payment or confirm your email first. Others delay activation until you land in the destination country. Also check your internet  poor Wi-Fi often blocks the initial setup. Try restarting your phone and scanning the QR again with stable data.

Plan Not Detected

Sometimes the eSIM shows “No Plan Found” even after scanning. This can happen if your phone’s eSIM memory is full or the downloaded profile wasn’t installed properly. Go to your settings, remove any inactive or expired eSIMs, and try downloading the new plan again. Also make sure you’re choosing the correct country during setup  the wrong region can cause mismatch.

SIM Locked by Carrier

If you get a “SIM not allowed” or “eSIM not supported” message, your phone is likely locked by your original carrier. This means you can’t install another network unless it’s unlocked. Even if your phone supports eSIM technically, a carrier lock will block plan switching. Contact your carrier and request an unlock. It’s usually free after your contract ends.

Can You Switch eSIM Providers in the Same Country?

Yes, you can switch eSIM providers even if you’re staying in the same country  but it depends on your phone and the provider’s policies. Let’s say you’re in Italy and your current plan is running low or the speeds are bad. You don’t have to wait for that plan to expire. You can buy a new eSIM from another provider, scan the QR, and activate it on your phone. Just make sure your device supports multiple eSIM profiles or has enough storage to install another one.

Some phones let you store up to 8 eSIMs, but only one or two can be active at a time. Also, remember to turn off the old plan before switching to avoid network conflict. This trick helps if you’re testing which provider gives better signal in your area. Many travelers do this mid-trip  especially if they’re working remotely and need stable data. No need to stick with poor service just because you’ve already paid.

How to Manage Multiple eSIMs for Travel?

Managing more than one eSIM sounds confusing, but it’s actually simple once you learn the basics. Most modern phones can store multiple eSIM profiles, think of them like saved cards in your wallet. You don’t need to delete one to add another. This is useful if you’re hopping between countries or testing which provider gives better speed.

Let’s say you’re flying from France to Germany to Italy. Instead of changing plans each time, you can install all three eSIMs in advance. When you land, just switch the active one in your phone settings. No need to scan QR codes again or hunt for Wi-Fi. It saves time and gives you backup if a plan fails.

The trick is to label each eSIM clearly  like “France Trip” or “Work SIM.” That way you won’t get confused later. Also, check which SIM is set as default for data, calls, and SMS. If two eSIMs are active, pick one for mobile data to avoid billing issues.

This method works best for digital nomads, frequent flyers, or anyone using travel rewards apps that require local numbers. You stay connected, flexible, and in full control.

Final Tips Before You Change Your eSIM Plan

Before you switch your eSIM plan, pause and check a few small things that can save you big trouble later. First, make sure your current plan has truly ended or doesn’t auto-renew. Many travelers forget to cancel old eSIMs and end up paying double. If you’re using an app like Airalo or Baztel, go to settings and disable renewal if it’s turned on.

Next, back up the QR code or activation details of your new plan. If something goes wrong during the switch, having the QR handy means you don’t have to wait for customer support. Also, if you’re heading to a region with patchy internet, activate the new plan before you leave Wi-Fi. eSIM setup usually needs a stable connection.

And finally, double-check your APN settings after switching. Sometimes mobile data doesn’t work until you manually set the access point. It takes just 30 seconds but avoids hours of stress later.

Switching plans is easy  but these last-minute checks can make the handover smooth. Especially when you’re traveling, every second counts.

Conclusion

Changing your eSIM plan isn’t as tricky as it sounds. Once you get used to how profiles work, switching becomes a simple 3-minute job. Just keep one thing in mind: every provider has their own steps and app flow. So don’t rush. Read the instructions before deleting or scanning anything.

Whether you’re changing plans for better data, cheaper rates, or a new trip  follow the steps above to avoid common mistakes. And always keep one extra plan saved, especially while traveling. That backup can save your day when you hit a no-signal zone.

Still unsure which eSIM is best for your next destination? Try Baztel’s eSIM plans made specially for Indian travelers abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I delete my current eSIM before installing a new one?

It’s better not to. First activate the new eSIM. Only delete the old one once the new plan starts working properly. This avoids any gap in your connection.

2. Will I lose internet while switching eSIMs?

Yes, briefly. The moment you delete the old eSIM, your phone may lose mobile data. Keep Wi-Fi on and scan the new QR immediately to stay connected.

3. Do I need to contact customer support to change plans?

No, not always. Most eSIM apps let you change plans yourself. But if your eSIM is locked or you’re facing errors, support may help reset your profile.

4. Can I switch from one eSIM provider to another easily?

Yes, you can. Just delete the current eSIM and scan the new QR code. But make sure your phone is unlocked and supports that provider.

5. How many eSIM plans can I store on one phone?

It depends on your phone model. Most iPhones and Androids let you store 5–8 eSIM profiles, but only 1–2 can be active at a time.