How to fix error: “eSIM cannot be added: This code is no longer valid”

If you see the message “eSIM cannot be added” during installation, don’t panic, it’s often caused by poor network conditions or because the eSIM was already installed successfully. This is a common occurrence on iOS devices when using manual setup or QR code activation.

Follow these steps to sort it out and get connected.

• Ensure your Wi-Fi connection is stable to maintain consistent internet access, which is essential for the QR scan to function properly.
• If you notice an icon like this: !!!! at the top of your screen, your eSIM might already be installed and all you have to do is activate your eSIM.

If you’re unsure whether the eSIM has been installed, you can confirm it by checking the ICCID on your device. This number should match the one listed as the “Reference Number” in your confirmation email, just below the QR code.

To check the ICCID on iPhone (iOS):

• Go to Settings > General > About > Scroll down > ICCID.

The ICCID for your Free Roaming eSIM should appear as a second option on your device and must match the reference number from the QR code.

If your QR is not working, check for other common eSIM installation errors

“Unable to continue cellular configuration” Or “ Unable to activate eSIM”

If you encounter the message “Unable to Continue Cellular Configuration” or “Unable to Activate eSIM,” it’s often due to a weak Wi-Fi connection. Try connecting to a stronger, more stable network to complete the activation successfully.

“Unsupported eSIM”

Getting the “eSIM not supported” message on your iPhone can be frustrating, it usually means your device is carrier-locked and doesn’t accept eSIMs from other providers.

To check if your iPhone is locked:

• Go to Settings > General > About > Scroll down to find Carrier Lock or Network Provider Lock > If you see SIM Locked, your iPhone is locked. If you see “No SIM restrictions” your iPhone is unlocked and ready to use an eSIM.

To discover how to unlock your carrier-locked phone, request an unlock code from your provider. Once you have it, follow these installation and activation steps.

Troubleshooting tips

If the previous methods didn’t work, try these actions to help resolve the issue:

• Turn off Airplane Mode to connect to available networks.
• Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi connection for eSIM activation.
• Restart your device to fix any hidden misconfiguration.
• Check if there are any software updates and install the latest version.
• Always install from the settings menu, not through the camera.
• Use the manual codes to install your eSIM.
• Perform a network reset to refresh your network settings automatically.

How to manually Install eSIM on an iPhone

• Go to Settings → Cellular or Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → Enter Details Manually → Copy and paste the SM-DP address and Activation Code from your purchase confirmation email → Tap Next → Tap Continue when the Activate eSIM screen appears (this step only continues the setup and does not activate the eSIM yet) → Continue with the setup.

How to reset network settings on an iPhone

Resetting your network settings can help refresh your configurations and fix connection issues. Keep in mind that this will delete all saved Wi-Fi passwords on your iPhone, so make sure to back them up before proceeding.

Here’s how to reset your network settings:

Go to Settings > Tap on General > Scroll down > Select Transfer or Reset iPhone > Then on Reset > Choose Reset Network Settings and confirm your selection with the Reset Network Settings option.