iPhone 17 and eSIM
Every iPhone 17 model supports eSIM, except units made for the markets listed below. Here is what that means for a travel plan.
Yes โ supports eSIM
- eSIMs stored
- 8 or more
- Active at once
- 2
- Physical SIM
- Yes; no SIM tray on US models
- 5G phone
- Yes
- Released
- 2025
Apple widened the eSIM-only version beyond the USA with this generation. Elsewhere it keeps the nano-SIM slot; two eSIMs work at once.
Checked October 4, 2026 ยท source
Models in this series
| Model | eSIM | Stored | Active | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | Yes | 8+ | 2 | Yes* |
| iPhone 17 Pro | Yes | 8+ | 2 | Yes* |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | Yes | 8+ | 2 | Yes* |
* Yes; no SIM tray on US models.
Mainland China. iPhones sold in mainland China have no eSIM; they use two physical nano-SIMs instead.
USA, Canada, Japan, Mexico and the Gulf states. From this generation the eSIM-only version (no SIM tray) is sold not only in the USA but also in Canada, Japan, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain.
How to install a travel eSIM on iPhone
Pick a destination below; the QR code arrives by email in a minute.
Settings โ Cellular โ Add eSIM โ Use QR code.
Keep your home line for calls and SMS.
Set the travel line as mobile data and enable data roaming for it.
Where to find eSIM in settings: Settings โ Cellular (Mobile Data) โ Add eSIM
Questions: iPhone 17
Can I keep my home number while using a travel eSIM on iPhone 17?
Yes. Your own SIM or eSIM stays active for calls and SMS; the travel eSIM carries data only. You choose which line is used for data in settings.
How many eSIMs can be installed on iPhone 17 at the same time?
Several profiles can be stored and two lines can be active at once. Switching between stored eSIMs takes a tap in Settings โ Cellular.
Can I move the eSIM from iPhone 17 to another phone?
Usually an eSIM installs once. Delete it from one phone and it cannot be reinstalled on another without a new activation, so decide which phone carries it before you install.
