SIM card not working, eSIM not working (2024)

What is a SIM?

A SIM lets us identify the particular services your mobile device can access on the Verizon network (e.g., calling, texting, internet access, etc.). This "Subscriber Identity Module" can be either:

  • A physical card you insert into your phone or tablet.
  • A digital equivalent, or "eSIM" (embedded SIM). eSIMs are present in some smartphones and tablets, most smartwatches and in certain Internet of Things (IoT) devices. eSIM is becoming more common. Your device may not have shipped with a physical SIM at all.

Your mobile device (Android™, iPhone®, Samsung, etc.) may support either or both a SIM card or eSIM. When you activate Verizon service on your mobile device, you will either:

  • Insert a physical SIM card into your device
  • Download the eSIM profile we assign to you

Generally, if your SIM is properly associated with your account, your service will work as expected.

Why is my SIM card not working?

Certain conditions could cause SIM card failure. These include:

  • Account issues - Your SIM card must be associated with an active line on your Verizon account to connect to the network. If your line is suspended, disconnected, or otherwise not allowed to connect to the network, this must be corrected for the SIM card to connect successfully.
  • System blocks - A SIM card lock can mean you entered the device PIN incorrectly too many times. Or the SIM card might have been used on an account that was disconnected or flagged for fraud, lost/stolen, or non-payment.
  • Incorrect type - Your SIM card must match the device you're using. For example, a 5G device using a 4G SIM card may not have access to all of the services it should be able to use. Be sure you're using the SIM that came with your device or one verified to be compatible.
  • Exposure to moisture causing corrosion or electrical problems.
  • Physical damage to the SIM card (e.g., bending/breaking, scratched or corroded contacts, debris inside the device's SIM card slot, etc.).
  • Contacts dirty - If the contacts are dirty, use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to carefully remove dirt or debris.
  • The SIM card isn't inserted properly into the device.

What's required for my SIM card to connect to the Verizon network?

Is your SIM card not working properly? These are required for your SIM card to connect to our network. The SIM card must be:

  • Attached to an active Verizon account (e.g., not suspended or disconnected).
  • In good working order (e.g., not damaged or dirty) and inserted correctly into your device.
  • Free of any blocks within the Verizon network. Visit our SIM Card and eSIM FAQs for more information.

What can I do if my SIM card isn't recognized by my device?

Your device may display a message such as "SIM card not recognized" if it has trouble reading the SIM card. This might happen because:

  • SIM card is damaged (e.g., cracked, worn, split, etc.). Make sure the SIM card isn't damaged before inserting it into the SIM card tray or slot.
  • Device contacts are dirty, corroded, etc. If the SIM card has been removed from the device the gold contacts may be scratched, worn, or otherwise damaged. Damage can also come from corrosion of the contacts or the SIM tray in the device due to exposure to moisture or debris.
  • SIM inserted incorrectly. There's usually just one correct way to insert a SIM card into a device's SIM tray and to insert the SIM tray into the device. Be sure not to modify the SIM card (e.g., cut, bend, etc.) and that the SIM is inserted per the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Wrong SIM card: Make sure you're using the correct type of SIM card. Most devices today use nano-SIM cards. If you're using a SIM that is a different size, don't try to force or modify it to make it fit. Using a SIM provided by another carrier or a 4G SIM in a 5G device can cause network connection failure.

What if I lost my SIM card or it was damaged? How do I get a replacement?

If you have a lost SIM card or it's been damaged, visit our SIM Card and eSIM FAQs to learn how to get a new one. You may be able to activate an eSIM and not have to order a new physical SIM card.

Can a Verizon SIM card go bad?

Typically a SIM card can last between 5 and 10 years. SIM card lifespans can be affected by factors including corrosion from moisture, swapping between devices, dirt or debris, etc.

You might find your SIM card isn't working for other reasons. A SIM card can also be blocked by carrier restrictions or become locked from too many incorrect lock code attempts, devices reported lost or stolen or lines of service that are suspended or disconnected.

For information specific to SIM card lock codes visit My Verizon Website - Locate the SIM PIN / PUK.

What should I do if my SIM card isn't working?

If your SIM card isn't working, in some cases you may need to order a new SIM card (e.g., lost SIM Card, stolen, damaged, etc.)

In many cases however, issues can be resolved by:

  • Turning Airplane mode in your device on and back off.
  • Restarting your device.
  • Removing and re-inserting the SIM card.
  • Cleaning the SIM card contacts using a clean, dry, lint-free cloth.

SIM card not working, eSIM not working (2024)

FAQs

SIM card not working, eSIM not working? ›

Make sure your SIM is enabled in the Settings menu and the correct SIM is set to default. Affected by a system block - A SIM lock may be enabled on the eSIM because you entered the PIN incorrectly too many times.

Why is my SIM card not working after eSIM? ›

Your iPhone must be unlocked, or both cellular plans must be from the same carrier. Both plans must be set up and ready to use. Your carrier or carriers must support Dual SIM with eSIM. If a CDMA carrier provides your first SIM, your second SIM won't support CDMA.

Why is my eSIM number not working? ›

So, if the eSIM card does not work, we recommend you check the following: Check that your iPhone is unlocked or that both cellular data plans belong to the same operator. Make sure that the plan is configured and ready to use. Check if your operator supports Dual Sim with eSIM.

Why is my eSIM not activating? ›

Because the "Unable to Activate eSIM" is appearing during the combined installation/activation flow, it usually means your device is unable to INSTALL your eSIM. This is often because you don't have a stable internet connection to download and install your eSIM (digital SIM card).

Does physical SIM stop working after eSIM? ›

What Happens to Your Physical SIM Card When You Switch to eSIM? When you switch to eSIM, your physical SIM card becomes obsolete. Your mobile device will no longer recognize the physical SIM card and you will no longer be able to use it to connect to a cellular network.

How do I reactivate my SIM card after eSIM? ›

You need to buy a new SIM card or eSIM. You have not used your SIM or eSIM for more than 6 months after the end of validity of the last plan : it cannot be reactivated. You need to buy a new SIM card or eSIM.

Why is my SIM card not working anymore? ›

Your device may display a message such as "SIM card not recognized" if it has trouble reading the SIM card. This might happen because: SIM card is damaged (e.g., cracked, worn, split, etc.). Make sure the SIM card isn't damaged before inserting it into the SIM card tray or slot.

What causes an eSIM to fail? ›

Compatible models include iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and later, but there are exceptions in certain regions. Common problems like incompatible carriers, activation issues, network problems, software updates, and physical SIM interference can cause eSIM malfunctions.

Why is my eSIM not transferring? ›

One common issue that can cause eSIM transfer problems is the status of your device's Bluetooth. eSIM activation often relies on Bluetooth for a seamless transfer process. To ensure it's enabled: Swipe down from the top of your screen (Android) or the top right corner (iPhone) to access the control centre.

What are the problems with eSIM? ›

One of the common challenges faced with eSIM connectivity is network disconnections. This can be frustrating, especially when you rely on a stable and uninterrupted network connection for your mobile device. However, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve these issues.

How do I manually activate eSIM? ›

How to install eSIM manually on Samsung Android
  1. Go to [Settings] – [Connections] – [SIM Card Manager] – [Add a Mobile Plan]
  2. Select [Scan Carrier QR code] and then tap [Enter activation code] instead.
  3. Enter your activation code by copying and pasting it into the appropriate field.
  4. Tap [Connect] – [Add and use it now]
Mar 20, 2023

How do I reset eSIM? ›

To erase your eSIM on your iPhone
  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Tap Cellular. Then: If you have a single plan, tap Delete eSIM. If you have multiple plans, tap the plan that you want to erase. Then tap Delete Plan.
May 20, 2024

Why isn t my eSIM compatible? ›

Whether your Android is eSIM-compatible will depend on the model, where it's manufactured, and what carrier you use. The best way to determine if your Android is eSIM-compatible is to check with the manufacturer, reseller, or network provider.

Why is my physical SIM not working? ›

If simply reseating the SIM card didn't do the trick, your phone might benefit from ensuring the card is clean and the contacts are clear. Remove the SIM card from your phone, carefully extract it from the tray and then use a microfiber cloth to wipe away any dust, dirt, or debris.

Why is my iPhone not detecting my SIM? ›

Make sure that the SIM tray closes completely and isn't loose. If you use a SIM tray from a different model iPhone, iPad, or from another phone manufacturer, it might not fit properly. If your device has a physical SIM card and you've completed the previous step, try using another SIM card.

How to fix eSIM no service? ›

Detailed Troubleshooting Steps for eSIM Connectivity Issues on iOS Devices
  1. Restart Your Device. Turn off your iPhone. ...
  2. Check Your eSIM Status. Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone. ...
  3. Update Your iOS. Go to the 'Settings' app. ...
  4. Reinstall Your eSIM. ...
  5. Check Network Settings. ...
  6. Visit an Apple Store.

How do I get my normal SIM back from eSIM? ›

To convert your eSIM to physical sim, you need to first deactivate your eSIM permanently. This will delete all your network details from the existing eSIM. You can't complete the process online or by yourself. Therefore, find the nearest store of your network provider.

Can you still use SIM card after eSIM? ›

FAQ SIM Card after installing eSIM. Can I still use my SIM Card after installing eSIM? Yes, you can still use your SIM card after installing the eSIM, in fact you can even use both cards simultaneously, your primary card for calls and message, and the eSIM for Internet.

Can you go back from eSIM to SIM card? ›

Yes, you can switch back from eSIM to physical SIM in seconds, in fact you can even use both of SIMs at the same time, your primary card for calls and message, and the eSIM for internet.

What happens to SIM card when eSIM is activated? ›

Wait for your eSIM to activate. Your previous SIM card will be deactivated when the mobile plan on your iPhone is activated.

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