Ordering, setting up and using an eSIM

Information about eSIMs

  • Secure: The eSIM is digital and therefore cannot be broken or stolen. 
  • No waiting: You don’t need to collect the eSIM and it is ready to use as soon as you order it. 
  • Multiple numbers: You can activate multiple eSIM profiles with different numbers on one device. 
  • Environmentally friendly: The eSIM does not produce any plastic waste.

You will also save the CHF 40.– SIM card activation fee because eSIMs are currently provided free of charge.

Learn more about eSIMs(opens in new tab)

Transferring an eSIM when changing device

With eSIM transfer, it’s easy to change from your old device to a new one, either during setup or later in the settings.

Not all devices support automatic eSIM transfer. In this case, you can order and set up a new eSIM in My Swisscom.

Order a new eSIM(opens in new tab)

Transfer the eSIM easily

How to transfer the eSIM profile from your old to your new mobile:

Ordering an eSIM with a new subscription

  1. When you order your mobile subscription, select the eSIM option.
  2. Once your mobile subscription is activated, you can find your eSIM profile as a QR code in My Swisscom(opens in new tab). For an iPhone, you install your eSIM directly in the My Swisscom app without using the QR code.
  3. Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera. You will need to be connected to the Internet.

If you change provider, you will receive your eSIM profile the day before your new Swisscom subscription is activated. This means it can be set up already on your device. Any notification on the device about a lack of service can be ignored. Once the subscription is activated, the eSIM you have set up will work. If you encounter problems, try restarting the device.

Ordering a new eSIM

You can order and set up a new eSIM for your existing subscription in My Swisscom.

Order new eSIM(opens in new tab)

FAQs

How do I activate the SIM PIN on my eSIM?

The SIM PIN on the eSIM is deactivated as standard. However, it can be activated at any time:

  1. Go to device settings. 
  2. Enter the wrong PIN incorrectly three times. 
  3. You now need your PUK. You’ll find this in My Swisscom(opens in new tab). 
  4. Set a new SIM PIN now.

How does the dual SIM function work with eSIM?

How does WhatsApp work with eSIM or dual SIM?

WhatsApp works in the same way with the eSIM as it does with a conventional SIM card.

However, with the dual SIM, you can only register and use one phone number for WhatsApp on the device.

How do I activate Mobile ID once I’ve switched to the eSIM?

Before switching, generate a recovery code at mobileid.ch/recovery(opens in new tab). After switching, you will need use this to reactivate your Mobile ID.

I have accidentally deleted my eSIM. How do I reactivate it?

Order a free replacement eSIM in My Swisscom(opens in new tab) and set it up again.

How do I set up the eSIM for a smartwatch and other additional devices?

To use the same eSIM with more than one device, you need Multi Device.

 Go to instructions

What do I need to do before giving my device with an eSIM to someone else?

Reset the device to factory settings. This will delete your eSIM profile from the device.

How do I convert an existing SIM card into an eSIM?

With an Apple and Samsung mobile, you can easily change to eSIM in the device settings. This deactivates your old SIM card and activates the new eSIM.

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Help from the Swisscom Community

Know more together: Our community with over 10,000 active users will be happy to support you.

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