How to Transfer an eSIM to a New iPad

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.0 - iPad Pro M4
You will need
Old iPad, New iPad, Active cellular plan, Stable Wi-Fi connection

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Ensure both iPads are updated

    Ensure your current iPad and your new iPad are both running the latest version of iPadOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update on both devices to verify.

    Note: A stable Wi-Fi connection is required to complete the transfer process.
  2. 30 sec

    Open Cellular settings on the new iPad

    On your new iPad, navigate to Settings > Cellular. If the device detects a carrier plan eligible for transfer, you will see a prompt to set up cellular service.

  3. 30 sec

    Initiate the transfer

    Tap the Add eSIM button or select your available cellular plan from the list. Choose the Transfer from a nearby iPad option when prompted by the setup assistant.

    Note: Only select plans that appear directly from your carrier in the list.
  4. 1 min

    Confirm on the old iPad

    A notification will appear on your old iPad requesting permission to transfer the eSIM. Tap Transfer to authorize the move and deactivate the service on the old device.

  5. 1 min

    Complete the activation

    Wait for the cellular settings to finalize on your new iPad. Once the signal bars in the status bar appear, your cellular plan is active and ready for use.

    Note: Restart the new iPad if the cellular signal does not appear within two minutes.