How to Switch Your giffgaff Physical SIM to eSIM: A Complete Guide
A few months ago, I purchased a UK giffgaff SIM card (see My Purchase of a UK Phone Card (Giffgaff), Including Activation Process and Precautions). Recently, giffgaff announced support for eSIM, allowing users to convert their existing physical SIM cards to eSIM. I have successfully converted my giffgaff SIM to eSIM and am sharing this tutorial.
What is eSIM?
eSIM stands for "embedded SIM." It is a small chip embedded directly into a phone or other device, replacing the traditional physical SIM card. This allows users to switch network operators or service plans electronically without needing to change a physical card.
Prerequisites
- You must already own a giffgaff physical SIM card.
- Your phone must support eSIM (most phones in China currently do not support eSIM; I used a Japanese version iPhone SE2).
- A tool to access the internet (often referred to as "magic internet" in this context) is required.
Converting giffgaff Physical SIM to eSIM
- Install the "giffgaff" app on your eSIM-compatible phone (search in the Apple App Store or Google Play).
- Open the app and log in.
- Navigate to the bottom menu and select Account - SIM. Note: You must have your internet access tool enabled beforehand; otherwise, the "SIM" option may not appear.
- Tap Replace my SIM.
- Tap Switch to a new eSIM.
- Agree to the terms and conditions. A verification code will be sent via SMS to your current giffgaff number.
- Tap Install eSIM.
The system will automatically push the eSIM configuration to your phone.
You will receive an SMS and email notification. The switch usually takes less than an hour, but during busy times, it can take up to 24 hours. In my case, it took about 30 minutes from switching to activation. Generally, if it takes within 24 hours, it is normal. If it exceeds one day without activation, contact giffgaff customer service for confirmation.
Just a quick update to let you know your request to transfer your number to your new giffgaff SIM is underway. The switch usually takes less than 1 hour but can go up to 24 hours at busy times.
If this wasn't you, please raise a case with a giffgaff agent. Can't log in to contact an agent? Contact us here.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter a "Service Unavailable" error during the eSIM switch (as shown below), try again at a different time.
If you cannot see your phone number after adding the giffgaff eSIM on an iPhone, go to FaceTime Calls - Settings - giffgaff Contact Method. This will display your giffgaff phone number (note that this may incur a standard SMS charge).
Related Recommendations
- Hong Kong ClubSim Phone Card: Purchase Experience and Usage Tips
- My Purchase of a UK Phone Card (Giffgaff), Including Activation Process and Precautions
Conclusion
To switch to a giffgaff eSIM, you must first own a physical SIM card, and your phone must natively support eSIM. Direct eSIM issuance is not currently supported. Additionally, ensure your internet access tool is enabled before switching, or the option may not appear. The process typically completes within 24 hours; if it remains inactive after one day, contact giffgaff customer service.