eSIM on iPhone: which models, eSIM-only iPhones and two lines at once
Updated 31 October 2026
Every iPhone from the XR and XS onwards supports eSIM, and newer models are moving to eSIM only. Here's what your model can do, and how to use a travel eSIM next to your usual number.
Which iPhones support eSIM
| Model | eSIM | Two lines at once |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XR, XS, 11, SE (2nd gen) | Yes | SIM + eSIM |
| iPhone 12 | Yes | SIM + eSIM |
| iPhone 13, 14, 15, 16, SE (3rd gen) | Yes | SIM + eSIM, or two eSIMs |
| iPhone 17 series | Yes | SIM + eSIM, or two eSIMs (eSIM only in some countries) |
| iPhone Air | eSIM only | Two eSIMs |
iPhones made for mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau often have two physical SIM slots and no eSIM. The *#06# check settles it: if you see an EID, your iPhone has eSIM.
eSIM-only iPhones
iPhone 14 and later models sold in the United States have no SIM tray. The iPhone Air is eSIM-only everywhere, and the iPhone 17, 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max are eSIM-only in 12 places: Bahrain, Canada, Guam, Japan, Kuwait, Mexico, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States and the US Virgin Islands.
With these phones a travel eSIM is the natural choice abroad: you can't put a local physical SIM in them.
Two lines at once
An iPhone can store eight or more eSIMs and use two lines at the same time. Keep your usual line on for calls and texts, and set Mobile Data to the travel eSIM.
Turn off Allow Mobile Data Switching so your home line isn't used for data when the travel signal is weak.
Questions
Can I keep my travel eSIM for the next trip?
Yes. Turn the line off when you get home and add a new plan to the same eSIM next time; there's nothing to reinstall.
Does the eSIM move to my new iPhone?
Usually, with Apple's eSIM transfer during setup. If it doesn't, write to us and we'll help.
My iPhone is locked to a carrier. Will a travel eSIM work?
No. Ask your carrier to unlock it first. Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock should say “No SIM restrictions”.
More guides
- How to install an eSIM on iPhone
- How to install an eSIM on Android (Samsung, Pixel and others)
- How much mobile data do I need for a trip?
- Best eSIM for Japan: prices, networks and how to choose
- Best eSIM for Europe: one plan for 36 countries, prices compared
- Best eSIM for Turkey: prices, networks and phone rules
- eSIM vs roaming vs local SIM: which is best abroad?
- eSIM for Hajj and Umrah: staying connected in Makkah and Madinah