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Learn about SIM and eSIM
Learn how to set up physical SIM cards, eSIMs and eSIM vouchers on Apple and Android devices.
Self-serve only
Please note that this is an online-only task that can easily be done using either My TELUS online or the app.
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What is a SIM?
- The Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) is a way for customers to connect to the TELUS network.
- It can be either a physical SIM card (pSIM) or an embedded SIM (eSIM).
- When using a physical SIM card (pSIM) and an electronic SIM (eSIM), you can use two phone numbers on one smartphone. With both phone numbers, you can make and receive voice calls, and send and receive text messages (SMS) and multimedia messages (MMS).
- This means you can have your personal and business phone numbers on one device or you can add a second phone line when travelling internationally.
What is an eSIM?
- An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan from TELUS without having to use a physical SIM.
- Most newer models already come with the ability to support eSIM on their devices. To see the list of eligible models, go to thesection of this article.What you need
What is an eSIM voucher?
An eSIM voucher is a physical voucher with a printed QR code that contains a digital SIM. It lets you access a cellular plan without having to insert a physical SIM card. This eSIM voucher also allows you to use up to two phone numbers on select smartphones. eSIM vouchers can be purchased online at the .
SIM card shop page
How does dual SIM work?
When using a physical SIM card and an electronic SIM (eSIM), you can use two phone numbers on one smartphone. With both phone numbers, you can make and receive voice calls, and send and receive text messages (SMS) and multimedia messages (MMS).
This means you can have your personal and business phone numbers on one device or you can add a second phone line when travelling internationally.
How to set up an eSIM on Android
How to activate a new number on your device
Follow the instructions below to activate your eSIM and connect to the TELUS network:
- For newer devices: All you need to do is turn your device on and follow the instructions during setup.
- For devices where eSIM doesn’t auto-download: Use the QR code to start the download. For instructions on how to do this, see the section onHow to download your eSIM using a QR codebelow.
- If you're bringing your own device over to TELUS: We'll provide you with a new phone number and assign it to a new SIM card. Just insert the new SIM card into your device and the new number will become active.
How to download your eSIM using a QR code
Make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi first and then follow the steps under your device’s brand below:
Pixel
- Go toSettings.
- TapNetwork and Internet.
- TapSIMs.
- Tap+ Add SIM.
- TapDownload a new eSIM.
- TapYes.
- Scan the QR code.
- TapDownload.
Samsung
- Go toSettings.
- TapConnections.
- TapSIM manager.
- Tap+ Add SIM.
- TapScan carrier QR Codeand scan the QR code.
- TapConfirm.
Motorola
- Go toSettings.
- TapNetwork and Internet.
- Tap+besideMobile Carrier.
- TapDownload a SIM instead.
- Scan QR code.
Note
: On some devices, you’ll need to turn your eSIM on in your Settings
after downloading it so it can connect to the network. 
How to activate the eSIM using a QR code voucher
If you purchased an eSIM QR voucher, you need to first complete an eSIM swap using self-serve, scan the QR code using the camera app, and then follow the steps under your device’s brand below:
Pixel
- Go toSettings.
- TapNetwork and Internet.
- TapSIMs.
- Tap+ Add SIM.
- TapDownload a new eSIM.
- TapYes.
- Scan the voucher's QR code.
- TapDownload.
Samsung
- Go toSettings.
- TapConnections.
- TapSIM manager.
- Tap+ Add SIM.
- TapScan carrier QR Codeand scan the QR code voucher.
- TapConfirm.
Motorola
- Go toSettings.
- TapNetwork and Internet.
- Tap+besideMobile Carrier.
- TapDownload a SIM instead.
- Scan voucher's QR code.
How to transfer your existing number to an eSIM on a newer device
Most new Android devices come with built-in options (on the device itself) to transfer eSIM from one Android device to another. If you don't see these options on your device, you can swap an eSIM between your two devices using a voucher.
Before you start, make sure your new device is connected to Wi-Fi.
Note
: The steps below cover the most common set-up procedures, but there may be slight variations depending on your device model.Pixel or Motorola
- Go toSettings.
- TapNetwork and Internet.
- TapSIMs.
- Tap+ Add SIM.
- TapTransfer a SIM from another device.
- Tap to selectTELUS.
- TapPixel or Android deviceand a QR code will be displayed on the new device.
- TapNexton the new device and a transfer prompt will be displayed on the old device.
- Open the camera on the old device and scan the QR code displaying on the new device.
- TapConvert & Transferon the new device.
- Enter your PIN or scan the fingerprint on the old device to confirm the transfer and the SIM transfer will complete.
- TapSettingson the new device.
- Tap on the inactive SIM.
- Toggle onUse SIMand tap onTurn on.
The new SIM card is now ready for use on the new device.
Samsung
- OpenSettingson the new device.
- TapConnections.
- TapSIM manager.
- TapAdd eSIM.
- TapTransfer SIM from another device. The new device will look for any supported Android device nearby that can be used as a source for the SIM transfer.
- Take the old active device and tapTransferon its screen when the prompt appears.
- A verification code will be displayed on the new device. Enter this code in the old device.
- TapTransferon the new device.
- TapConfirmon the old device and the eSIM transfer will now begin.
How to convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on the same device
To convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on the same device, you need a Samsung running One UI 6.1 or later.
- Go toSettings.
- TapConnections.
- TapSIM manager.
- Tap on the physical SIM to convert.
- TapConvert to eSIM.
- TapConvert eSIMto confirm.
- Once the transfer is completed, remove the physical SIM from the device.
How to set up an eSIM on Apple
How to transfer your existing number to an eSIM on a newer device
- If you’re upgrading or replacing a device, see our article on.how to change your SIM card
- If you’re transferring a physical SIM card or an eSIM from a previous iPhone to an eSIM on your new iPhone usingeSIM Quick Transfer, follow the steps below:
- Go toSettings.
- TapCellular.
- TapSet Up CellularorAdd eSIM.
- TapTransfer from Nearby iPhone (or iPad).
- Follow the prompts on both devices to complete the transfer.
Note: AppleeSIM Quick Transferrequires iOS 16.4 or later on iPhone, or iOS 17 or later on iPad.
How to activate a new number on your device
- If you selected the eSIM option while purchasing your device, an eSIM would have been assigned to your device. To activate the eSIM and connect to the TELUS network, all you need to do is turn the device on and follow the instructions during setup.
- If you're bringing your own device over to TELUS: We'll provide you with a new phone number and assign it to a new SIM card. Just insert the new SIM card into your device and the new number will become active.
Looking to transfer your existing number to TELUS instead?
For steps on how to do this, see our support article that goes over how to transfer existing numbers to your TELUS Mobility account from another carrier
How to convert a physical SIM card to an eSIM on the same device
Using
eSIM Quick Transfer
on your iPhone, you can easily convert a SIM card to an eSIM by following the steps below:- Go toSettings.
- TapCellular.
- TapConvert to eSIM.
- TapConvert Cellular Plan.
- Wait for your eSIM to activate. Your previous SIM card will deactivate when the cellular plan on your iPhone activates.
- Remove the physical SIM from your iPhone and then and then restart your iPhone.
Note
: A physical SIM to eSIM conversion requires iPhone 11 or newer, iPhone SE 3rd generation or newer, and iOS 16.4 or later.How to activate an eSIM using a QR Voucher
If you , you need to scan the QR code using the
purchased an eSIM QR voucher
Camera
app once you receive it and then follow the steps below:- Go toSettings.
- TapCellular.
- TapAdd eSIM.
- TapOther options.
- TapUse QR Code.
- Scan the QR Code using theCameraApp until you see a message that says, “A cellular plan from TELUS is ready to be added to the iPhone."
- Choose the labels for each of your cellular plans.
- Set your default line.
How to swap eSIMs
If you’re switching to a new device or you wish to replace your current eSIM with a new one, you can do so online in . You must be an owner or manager on the account.
My TELUS
Here's what you'll need to complete the swap:
- An active device: This is the device to which you're swapping the eSIM.
- For Apple eSIM-compatible devices running on iOS 13 or later: An eSIM is required, which will be automatically assigned.
- For all other eSIM-compatible devices: You'll require an eSIM QR voucher and its 19-digit SIM number.
Here’s how to swap your eSIM online:
- Log in to. If you don't have an account,My TELUS.register now
- Go toMobility Plans & Devices(in the My TELUS app, this can be found underPlans / Travels).
- Select theDevicetab.
- SelectChange a SIM card.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
How to change from Android to Apple or from Apple to Android
If you’re currently using an eSIM and would like to change from Android to Apple or from Apple to Android, you can do so online in . You must be an owner or manager on the account.
My TELUS
Here's what you'll need to complete the change:
- An active device: This is the device from which you're swapping the eSIM.
- For Apple eSIM-compatible devices: An eSIM is required, which will be automatically assigned for devices running on iOS 13 or later.
- For Android eSIM-compatible devices: You'll require an eSIM QR code voucher and its 19-digit SIM number.
Here’s how to swap your eSIM online:
- Log in to. If you don't have an account,My TELUS.register now
- Go toMobility Plans & Devices(in the My TELUS App, this can be found underPlans / Travels)
- Select theDevicetab.
- SelectChange a SIM card.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
What you need
This list includes devices sold in Canada. If you have an international model, you can still activate a new eSIM on it, provided that the device is compatible, unlocked and has enough memory available for the new eSIM.
iOS | Android |
|---|---|
|
|
TELUS wireless prepaid or postpaid plan | TELUS wireless prepaid or postpaid plan |
iOS 12.1 or newer | Android 10 or newer |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. What rate plans are available for eSIM?
Any in-market TELUS Mobility rate plan (prepaid or postpaid) is available on eSIM. 2. Do I need an active physical SIM in my device to activate an eSIM?
Most recent models allow activation of an eSIM without a need for a physical SIM. However, some older ones do require having an active physical SIM first before having an option to add an eSIM. For example, Samsung Galaxy Note20 requires a physical SIM to be active before adding an eSIM. 3. How do I know which line I’m using at any given time?
Each line is individually labelled to differentiate between numbers. These labels can be customized. These labels may vary depending on the operating system and the active carrier.4. What happens when I receive a call on my secondary line while I am on a call on my primary line?
Both lines can be connected to the network at all times. While on a call using one line, the other line is on standby. If you receive a call on the other line while on a call using the first line, the incoming call will go to voicemail. 5. If both the lines have mobile data, which one can I use and which one will show on my bill?
Both lines can access mobile data but only one line can access mobile data at any given time to prevent duplicating charges. Your usage will reflect the line that you have selected to use as the default at any given time. The default line can be changed in your device settings. 6. I currently have two mobile lines at TELUS on two devices. Can I transfer one of my phone numbers to an eSIM so that I can have both the phone numbers on one device?
Yes. You can complete a SIM swap in self-serve. See the section How to swap eSIMs
7. How will I be billed for calls and text messages?
Calls and messages are billed according to the wireless plan associated with the line used at any given time. Overage rates may apply if you exceed your allotment of voice minutes or messages.8. When travelling, can I use a foreign carrier’s eSIM on my TELUS phone?
Yes, if available, customers can use a foreign carrier’s eSIM plan when travelling to countries outside of Canada if the network is compatible with the device. When you return home, you can switch from your foreign carrier's eSIM to your local eSIM. 9. What happens if I roam abroad?
Roaming rates and services are billed according to your postpaid rate plan. View our support article on how you will be charged while travelling
10. Can I activate an eSIM from another carrier on my TELUS smartphone?
Yes, TELUS customers can activate an eSIM from another carrier on their TELUS eSIM-capable phone. The other carrier must support eSIM functionality on the device.11. Can I delete my eSIM profile?
You can delete your eSIM profile by going to your phone’s network/cellular settings and locating the line (eSIM profile) you want to delete. When you delete your eSIM profile, you are not cancelling the line on the network so you will continue to be billed. 12. If I delete my eSIM profile from one phone, can I scan the eSIM voucher again into another phone?
No, once an eSIM profile is deleted from the phone, you cannot scan the same eSIM voucher into another phone. An eSIM voucher can only be used and scanned once. You must purchase an eSIM voucher at your nearest TELUS store or online and complete a SIM-swap using self-serve.Note
: TELUS and its subsidiaries (“TELUS”) are not responsible for loss of carrier service as a result of an eSIM download wipe performed on any non-TELUS eSIM. If your phone’s eSIM line is currently active through a carrier other than TELUS, you are responsible for obtaining and activating a new eSIM from the carrier. You are responsible for any charges that your carrier may apply for a replacement eSIM.13. Do I need a Wi-Fi network to activate my eSIM?
Yes, to activate an eSIM you will need a Wi-Fi or cellular connection.Did this article solve your problem?
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