Should you delete the eSIM after your trip? How to do it safely
Deleting a travel eSIM frees a profile slot and tidies settings, but a deleted profile cannot be reinstalled. When to delete, when to keep, and the steps on iPhone and Android.
Quick facts
You can delete a Universal eSIMs profile after the plan expires with no penalty, but a deleted travel eSIM cannot be reinstalled, so wait until the validity has ended and you do not plan to top up within 30 days. Deleting takes 10 seconds: iPhone Settings, Cellular, tap the line, Delete eSIM; Android SIM manager, tap the line, Remove.
Guide reviewed on 25 October 2026 · Hotspot allowed on every plan · Full refund if your phone cannot install the eSIM
Step by step
Check the plan has expired
My eSIMs shows days remaining. A top-up within 30 days of expiry uses the same profile, so keep it if you are returning soon.
iPhone
Settings, Cellular (Mobile Service), tap the travel line, Delete eSIM, confirm. The slot is freed immediately.
Android
Samsung: Settings, Connections, SIM manager, tap the line, Remove. Pixel: Settings, Network and internet, SIMs, tap the line, Erase SIM. OnePlus: Settings, Mobile network, eSIM, tap the line, Delete.
Restore your defaults
Check that mobile data has moved back to your home SIM and that data roaming on it is set the way you want for home.
Keep or delete?
Does an unused eSIM cost anything if left installed?
No. An installed, disconnected profile uses no data and no validity. Turn the line off so the phone does not search for its networks and drain battery.
Frequently asked questions
Can I reinstall a deleted eSIM?
No. Travel eSIM profiles install once. If you delete one with data left, contact us; a replacement may be issued at our discretion.
Does deleting the eSIM cancel the plan?
It does not refund anything. The plan simply becomes unusable. Request refunds before deleting if eligible.
Will deleting affect my home SIM?
No. Only the selected profile is removed. Check default data and roaming settings afterwards.
How many eSIMs can my phone hold?
iPhone: eight or more stored, two active. Most Android phones: five to seven stored, one active alongside a physical SIM.
Should I delete before a factory reset?
Yes. On iPhone the reset asks whether to keep eSIMs; choose to erase them only if you no longer need them.
Does a deleted eSIM leave any data on the phone?
No. The profile and its keys are erased from the eUICC chip.
Related help
• Top up instead
· • Transfer to a new phone
· • World Wallet 365
· • Install on iPhone
· • Help centre
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