How Many eSIMs Can I Have?

Travelling abroad? Studying in a new country? Managing your mobile plan just got a lot easier thanks to eSIM technology. With no physical cards to swap or lose, eSIMs keep you online no matter where you are. But once you start exploring your options, a common question comes up: how many eSIMs can I have?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how many eSIMs your iPhone or Samsung Galaxy can support and how to keep your mobile setup quick and stress-free.

Why would I want more than one eSIM?

Having one eSIM is already a win. But adding more can take your mobile experience to the next level. Here’s why having multiple eSIMs makes sense for different lifestyles and goals:

Make travel simpler
If you’re heading from country to country, storing both regional and global eSIM plans gives you the freedom to switch as you cross borders. You can stay connected at local rates without the hassle of searching for new SIM cards at every stop.

Ideal for students or expats living abroad
Need a local number for your new city but want to keep your original number active too? With multiple eSIM profiles, you can stay in touch with family back home while enjoying local data and call rates in your new country.

Balance work and personal life on one device
Many smartphones let you activate one eSIM while storing others or using a physical SIM card. You can set one number for work hours and another for evenings or weekends, making it easier to unplug when you need to.

How many eSIMs can I have on my iPhone?

The number depends on the iPhone model you’re using. Most newer iPhone models let you use a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously. You can also store several eSIM profiles on your device, sometimes up to eight. You can switch between them when needed, although only two can be active at once. If you’re unsure what your iPhone supports, a quick check in your settings or on Apple’s website will give you all the details.

How many eSIMs can I have on my Samsung Galaxy phone?

Just like with iPhones, the number of eSIMs you can use depends on the model you’re using. In terms of storing eSIMs, things work a little differently with Samsung. Typically, you can only have one active eSIM per carrier at a time. So if you already have one physical SIM and one eSIM from Carrier 1, you may not be able to add another eSIM from that same carrier.

However, if you’re looking to use different eSIMs, such as one from Carrier 1, another from Carrier 2 and one from an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator), your device may allow you to store and switch between them. Keep in mind that the number of eSIMs you can add may depend on your phone’s memory and the policies of each carrier. It’s always best to check your device settings and your mobile plan provider for specific details.

How to keep your eSIMs organised

With a few smart habits, you can manage all your eSIMs with ease.

Give each profile a clear name
When you activate an eSIM, your phone usually lets you label it. Use names that make sense to you, like “Work”, “Japan Trip” or “Telsim AU”. This makes it easy to know exactly which plan you’re switching to.
Set a default line for calls, messages and data
Most devices allow you to choose which eSIM handles which function. You might prefer to use one for data only and another for voice calls. Set your preferences clearly in your device’s mobile settings to avoid accidental usage.
Switch smartly
Before you travel, activate the eSIM and double-check if it’s ready to go. Deactivate any profiles you’re not using to keep your phone running smoothly and avoid background charges from inactive plans.
Keep track of expiry dates
If you’re using short-term or prepaid plans, make a note of when they end. A quick reminder in your phone’s calendar can help you avoid surprises or interruptions.

Will eSIMs replace physical SIMs completely?

eSIMs offer flexibility and faster activation. That said, physical SIMs are still widely used around the world, especially in places where eSIM-compatible devices or networks aren’t yet common. For now, both options work side by side, giving you the freedom to choose what suits your needs.

While eSIMs might not replace physical SIMs overnight, they’re definitely shaping the future of mobile. And with Telsim already offering strong eSIM support, it’s never been easier to make the switch.

Start your eSIM journey with Telsim today

If you’re exploring eSIMs for travel, work or everyday use, Telsim has a plan to match your requirements. We offer eSIMs for Australia, Asia, Europe, Africa, the Americas and beyond, providing you with reliable mobile coverage wherever you’re headed.

Whether you’re wondering “how many eSIMs can I have on an iPhone?” or trying to find the right mobile plan, our team is always ready to assist. Get in touch with us today or visit an authorised Telsim dealer to explore your options.