eSIM with phone number: How does it work?

What is an eSIM with a phone number?

An eSIM with a phone number is a mobile plan installed digitally on your phone, which includes mobile data, the ability to make calls, and, in most cases, send and receive text messages.

It therefore works like a standard mobile plan: you have a real phone number, which you can use to make and receive calls, receive security codes via text message, or communicate with your contacts as usual, with the difference that there is no physical SIM card to insert.

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that is directly integrated into your smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch.

It performs exactly the same function as a traditional SIM card, but without the plastic card: you simply download your mobile line (via a QR code or an app), and your device immediately connects to the network.

How do I get a phone number with an eSIM?

There are two main ways to obtain an eSIM with a phone number: either you convert your current line to an eSIM, or you create a new line directly as an eSIM.

Switch your current line to eSIM

If you already have a mobile plan with a number you want to keep, you can simply ask your carrier to replace your physical SIM card with an eSIM.

This request is usually made from your online customer account, via the operator's app, or in-store.

Once the request has been approved, your operator will provide you with an activation QR code. Simply scan it with your phone to transfer your line to the eSIM. In most cases, there is a small fee for this operation, but it may be free depending on the offer or circumstances (for example, if you are changing phones).

Create a new line directly in eSIM

You can also choose to subscribe to a new mobile plan with eSIM, without using a physical SIM card. When subscribing, simply select the eSIM option, and you will receive your activation QR code by email or in your customer account.

This solution is useful if you want to have a second number, separate personal and professional use, or change operators completely.

How do I make calls with an eSIM?

How to install your eSIM and make calls depends on the type of plan you are using: an eSIM with a phone number, or an eSIM primarily intended for Internet connection.

If your eSIM includes a phone number

Installation is done in a few simple steps: you add your eSIM in your phone settings by scanning the QR code sent by your carrier, then you finalize the activation from your customer account or directly from the device.

Once the line is activated and connected to the network, your phone will work exactly as it would with a traditional SIM card: you can make and receive calls, send text messages, and use the Internet without any difference in usage.

If your eSIM is used without a phone number

Even without a dedicated phone line, you can still communicate using the Internet connection provided by the eSIM. You can make calls and send messages via apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger, FaceTime, or Skype, as long as you are connected to the network.

It is also possible to keep your usual SIM card in the phone so that you can still be reached on your main number, while using the eSIM for your Internet connection. This allows you to limit your costs abroad while remaining accessible.

Why choose an eSIM for your travels?

Is it possible to get a free eSIM number?

In most cases, assigning a phone number to an eSIM is not free when provided by a traditional mobile operator. Whether you request to replace your current SIM card with an eSIM or open a new line directly with an eSIM, this operation is generally billed, regardless of the operator.

However, there are a few specific situations where this change can be offered free of charge, such as when your SIM card is no longer working properly or if your phone is lost or stolen. In these cases, the operator considers the eSIM to be a replacement, not a new service.

Conversely, providers specializing in travel eSIMs do not charge for the number itself: you only pay for the plan you choose (for a given duration or data volume), with no additional costs for activation or line allocation.

Can a SIM card and an eSIM be used with the same number?

It is not possible to associate a single phone number with two different media at the same time. In other words, a number can only be active on one line: either on a physical SIM card or on an eSIM, but not on both simultaneously.

However, it is entirely possible to use multiple lines in parallel on the same phone, each with its own number. For example, you can have a SIM card from one carrier and an eSIM from another, both active at the same time, and choose which one to use for calls, messages, or Internet connection.

This configuration is particularly useful when traveling. Many users keep their usual SIM card so they can still be reached on their main number, while adding a dedicated eSIM for Internet connection abroad.

FAQ: eSIM with phone number