Activating your eSIM device on a standard monthly plan FAQs

eSIM is digital SIM built into mobile devices. eSIM lets you activate a device on a cellular network without a physical SIM card.

• Newer devices can have eSIM in addition to or instead of removable SIM cards.
• See what type(s) of SIM your device has in the general Settings, usually under About or About Phone.

eSIM activation differs for iOS and Android devices. If you have a standard monthly plan, follow the instructions below for your device. (These steps aren't for devices on Prepaid and Business plans.*)

Apple® iPhone®:

1. Choose the line you want to activate at the Activate a Device on an Existing Line page in My Verizon.
2. Choose the eSIM to activate:
   • iPhone 10-13: Choose IMEI2 for eSIM.
   • iPhone 14*: Choose the IMEI you want to activate.
3. Follow the prompts to activate your device.

Android users only: To activate an eSIM-enabled Android on an existing line, you must speak to a Customer Service representative (don't use Chat).

Exceptions:

• Samsung Galaxy A54 activation instructions
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 - Activate/Set Up Device
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 - Activate/Set Up Device
• Samsung Galaxy S24 - Activate/Set Up Device

Important: Connecting a device to the Verizon network for the first time takes up to 15 minutes. If you’re not connected after 15 minutes contact us. Don't retry the activation.

*If you have a Prepaid account, learn how to activate devices on Verizon Prepaid. For Verizon Business lines visit eSIM Activation Instructions for Business.

How you activate an eSIM device on a new line of service depends on whether you're opening a new account or you're adding a new line to an existing account.

If you have a standard monthly plan, follow the instructions below. (These steps aren't for devices on Prepaid and Business plans.*)

• If you're switching to Verizon - Use the My Verizon app to quickly enable the eSIM device on your new Verizon line. Install and open the app then follow the prompts for your device.
  • Or, you can use the My Verizon website. Visit our Bring your own device (BYOD) page; choose a mobile service plan and follow the steps to install the eSIM onto your device.
• If you're adding a line to an existing Verizon account - Use the Add a line page of the My Verizon website to set up and activate your eSIM.
  • Or, if you have the phone you’re activating in hand, you can use My Verizon app. Go to Shop > Bring your device and follow the prompts.

Important: To activate, your device has to be unlocked from any carrier other than Verizon. If needed, contact your previous carrier to unlock. After unlocking, it can take up to 24 hours before you can activate your device with Verizon.

*If you have a Prepaid account, learn how to activate devices on Verizon Prepaid. For Verizon Business lines visit eSIM Activation Instructions for Business.

While you're setting up your eSIM-capable device some devices will need a QR code. If so, you'll get it during set-up. If you can't find it or aren't sure if you need one, see below:

• iPhone X and iPhone 11 - Use the phone’s camera to scan the QR code. If you don't receive it by email, scan it from Apple iPhone - Add Cellular Plan Using an eSIM.
• Android - Some Android devices require a QR code to download an eSIM profile. See the steps for your specific device.
• iPhone 12 and newer don't need a QR code.

If you still need help activating eSIM, call us (don't use Chat).

To get a new eSIM profile for your iPhone, choose from your device list in My Verizon and follow the activation steps.

To change which SIM you're using, choose from your device list in My Verizon and follow the prompts.

Note: If your device is Dual SIM and you want to change from using the SIM card to using the eSIM, you may need to remove the card first.