Does My iPhone Support eSIM? 3 Quick Checks

iPhone eSIM Compatibility Guide

Before buying a travel eSIM, you should confirm two things: your iPhone supports eSIM, and your iPhone is unlocked. The fastest way is to dial *#06# and check whether your device shows an EID number starting with 89.

Method 1: Dial *#06# If you see an EID beginning with 89, your iPhone supports eSIM.

Method 2: Add eSIM Check whether “Add eSIM” appears under Cellular or Mobile settings.

Check Carrier Lock Your iPhone should show “No SIM restrictions” before using travel eSIMs.

Why You Should Check eSIM Support Before Buying

eSIM is a digital SIM technology that lets you install a mobile data plan without inserting a physical SIM card. It is perfect for international travel, but not every iPhone model or regional version supports eSIM.

Checking your iPhone before purchase helps you avoid activation problems and makes sure your travel eSIM can be installed smoothly.

Method 1: Dial *#06# and Look for an EID

This is one of the fastest ways to check eSIM support on iPhone. Open the Phone app, go to the keypad, and dial the following code:

Dial this on your iPhone keypad *#06#

After dialing the code, your iPhone will display device identifiers. To confirm eSIM support, look specifically for an EID.

✓

EID starting with 89 = eSIM supported If your iPhone shows an EID number beginning with 89, it means your device has eSIM capability.

IMEI, MEID, SEID, and SN do not count These numbers are not the same as EID. If you only see IMEI, MEID, SEID, or serial number, that alone does not confirm eSIM support.

EID 89xxxxxxxx = eSIM supported IMEI only = not enough MEID / SEID / SN = not EID

What Is an EID?

EID stands for Embedded Identity Document. It is a unique identifier for the eSIM chip inside your iPhone. If your iPhone has an EID, it usually means the phone has built-in eSIM hardware.

For travel eSIM compatibility, the key point is simple: you need to see an EID number starting with 89. Other device numbers may appear on the same screen, but they do not replace the EID.

Important: Do Not Confuse EID with IMEI, MEID, SEID, or SN

When you dial *#06#, your iPhone may show several different identifiers. Only the EID confirms eSIM hardware. The following numbers do not count as EID:

IMEIIMEI identifies your mobile device, but it does not confirm eSIM support by itself.

MEIDMEID is another device identifier and should not be used as proof of eSIM support.

SEIDSEID is related to secure elements, not your eSIM profile compatibility.

SN / Serial NumberYour serial number identifies the device, but it is not an eSIM identifier.

Method 2: Check for “Add eSIM” in Settings

Another easy way to check iPhone eSIM support is through Settings. If your iPhone shows an option to add an eSIM, your device likely supports eSIM installation.

Open Settings

Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.

Tap Cellular or Mobile

Depending on your region, the menu may be called “Cellular”, “Mobile Data”, or “Mobile Service”.

Look for Add eSIM

If you see “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan”, your iPhone likely supports eSIM.

Final Requirement: Make Sure Your iPhone Is Unlocked

Even if your iPhone supports eSIM, it still needs to be unlocked to use most travel eSIM plans. A carrier-locked iPhone may not accept eSIM plans from other providers.

To check this, go to:

iPhone unlock check path Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock

If it says No SIM restrictions, your iPhone is unlocked. This is an important requirement for using travel eSIMs.

✓

No SIM restrictions = unlocked Your iPhone should be able to use travel eSIM plans from other providers.

SIM locked = contact your carrier If your iPhone is locked, contact your carrier before purchasing a travel eSIM.

Quick Compatibility Checklist

Before buying a travel eSIM, your iPhone should pass all three checks below:

Dial *#06# Confirm that an EID number appears and starts with 89.

Check Add eSIM Go to Settings → Cellular or Mobile and look for the Add eSIM option.

Check Carrier Lock Go to Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock and make sure it says No SIM restrictions.

What If Your iPhone Does Not Show an EID?

If your iPhone does not show an EID after dialing *#06#, it may not support eSIM, or the specific regional version may not include eSIM capability. Seeing only IMEI, MEID, SEID, or SN is not enough.

In that case, do not purchase a travel eSIM until you confirm compatibility through your device settings, Apple support, or your carrier.

iPhone eSIM Compatibility FAQ

Does an EID mean my iPhone supports eSIM?

Yes. If your iPhone shows an EID number starting with 89, it indicates that your device supports eSIM.

Do IMEI, MEID, SEID, or SN mean my iPhone supports eSIM?

No. These identifiers do not count as EID. You should look specifically for an EID number.

Where can I find the Add eSIM option?

Go to Settings → Cellular or Mobile. If your iPhone supports eSIM, you may see an option called Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.

What does No SIM restrictions mean?

It means your iPhone is unlocked and should be able to use mobile plans from other providers, including most travel eSIMs.

Can I use a travel eSIM if my iPhone is carrier locked?

Usually no. Most travel eSIMs require an unlocked iPhone. If your device is locked, contact your carrier before purchasing.

What to Do After Your iPhone Passes the Check

Follow the step-by-step iPhone eSIM installation guide, then compare plans for popular destinations such as the USA, Europe, and Japan.

Explore eSIM Plans by Region

Asia eSIMs · Europe eSIMs · Africa eSIMs · North America eSIMs

Ready to Use Travel eSIM on Your iPhone?

Once your iPhone shows an EID, has the Add eSIM option, and displays No SIM restrictions, you are ready to use a travel eSIM. eSIM Top offers affordable travel eSIM plans for 200+ destinations worldwide.

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Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Can I install my eSIM before I travel?

Yes. Install the eSIM while you still have Wi-Fi, then activate the travel line when you arrive at your destination.

Will my regular phone number still work?

Yes. Keep your primary line active for calls and messages, and use the eSIM for mobile data while abroad.

How do I know how much data I need?

Light travelers can start with a smaller plan. If you use maps, social media, or hotspot frequently, choose more data for peace of mind.