Deleted Your eSIM? Here's How to Recover It – Step-by-Step Guide

Have you accidentally deleted your eSIM while resetting your phone or changing device settings? Don’t panic. While it may not be as easy as reinstalling an app, recovering your deleted eSIM is entirely possible. In this guide, we’ll explain what eSIM is, how to get it back, and the exact process for Jio and Airtel users in India.

🔹 What Is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of the traditional SIM card. Instead of inserting a physical chip into your phone, the eSIM is activated via software. Modern 5G smartphones typically support this feature, making SIM management more seamless.

However, if the eSIM is deleted due to a factory reset, device issue, or software bug, it won’t work until it is reactivated through your mobile provider.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Restore Your eSIM 🔸 Step 1: Visit the Service Provider’s Store

Before you can restore your eSIM, you must first:

• Request a replacement physical SIM from your telecom provider (Airtel, Jio, or Vi).

• After issuance, your SMS services will remain disabled for 24 hours as a security measure.

• After the waiting period, you can initiate the eSIM activation process.

🔸 Jio Users: How to Reactivate a Deleted eSIM

Follow these steps:

Visit Jio's official website and go to the eSIM section.

Enter your email ID and verify it using the OTP sent to your email.

Enter your Email ID and EID number (available in your phone's settings).

Click on "Proceed" to begin the eSIM request.

You’ll receive a verification call from +91 2235072222. Answer the call and follow the voice instructions to confirm your request.

If you miss the call, send an SMS:
RECALL to 199 from your Jio number to initiate the process again.

🔸 Airtel Users: How to Restore Your eSIM

Here's what you need to do:

From your Airtel number, send the following SMS to 121:
eSIM

You’ll receive a response from 121. Reply with ‘1’ to confirm the request.

Airtel will then send you a confirmation SMS and a QR code to your email.

Go to your smartphone’s Settings > Mobile Network > eSIM / Add Data Plan.

Choose ‘Scan QR Code’, then scan the code received on your email.

The eSIM will now activate on your device.

📌 Important Tips

• Make sure your phone supports eSIM functionality.

• Keep your email ID updated with your mobile provider.

• If your phone was lost or stolen, always report it and block your eSIM before reactivating.

🔐 Security Measures

To prevent misuse:

• SMS services are temporarily blocked for 24 hours after issuing a new SIM.

• Confirmation via OTP, email, and verification call ensures only the rightful owner can reactivate the eSIM.

⚠️ Note for Vodafone-Idea (Vi) Users

While Vi also supports eSIM services in selected cities, their process may vary slightly. Always refer to the latest guidelines from your provider’s official website or nearest store.

🧾 Summary Service Provider Recovery Method Key Steps

Jio	Website-based	Email verification → EID submission → Call confirmation
Airtel	SMS-based	SMS to 121 → QR code via email → Scan in phone settings

Need help finding your EID or facing issues during the activation process? Let me know and I’ll guide you further!