No, eSIMs can’t be shared between devices, but you can share your eSIM’s data connection by using your phone as a mobile hotspot.
Many travelers want to know if they can buy one eSIM and share connectivity with their family, friends, or secondary devices like a tablet. It’s a great question driven by the goal of saving money and simplifying data management.
Before trying to share your eSIM, it’s important to understand how it works, what is possible, and what isn’t.
In this article
No, an eSIM profile cannot be transferred or shared between devices in the same way you would pass a physical SIM card to a friend.
Once an eSIM is activated on one device, it becomes linked to that device’s unique hardware ID and cannot be “reused” or installed on another device at the same time.
If you try to scan the same QR code on another device, the system will reject it or show an activation error. This is because:
If you want to use an eSIM on another smartphone or tablet, you’ll usually need to buy a separate eSIM plan for that device.
While you can’t transfer or install your eSIM on multiple devices, you can share your data connection through a hotspot.
Hotspotting is highly effective, but it comes with a few necessary trade-offs you must manage:
Note that some network providers limit tethering, so check your eSIM plan’s details before purchase.
In short, your eSIM’s internet connection can be shared, but the eSIM profile itself cannot.
If you’re traveling with friends or family and want everyone to have connectivity, there are better alternatives than trying to share one eSIM.
► Read more: Learn how to share data with an eSIM
Gigago offers data plans in over 200 countries and territories, so you can easily find one that fits your travel needs. Whether you’re exploring one destination or hopping across regions, Gigago’s regional and global plans keep you seamlessly connected everywhere you go. Data plans start from just $1.50/GB, giving you flexible, affordable options for any trip length.
The networks Gigago partners with for each plan are clearly listed on the website, so you can check which local carriers are supported before purchasing. Data sharing and hotspot use are supported on most Gigago eSIM plans, so you can stay online across all your devices with ease.
Gigago also offers 24/7 multilingual customer support — ready to assist you anytime, anywhere in the world. So, if you ever have an issue activating or using your eSIM, rest assured that help is always just a message away.
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