Yes, giffgaff supports eSIM on its monthly plans and 18-month contract plans, and it costs nothing extra. Everything happens in the giffgaff app. New members join and activate there. Existing members switch via Account > SIM > Replace my SIM. There are no QR codes. You can't start an eSIM on credit alone, and smartwatches aren't supported yet.
| Plan type | eSIM | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly plans (SIM only) | Yes | Pick a plan when you activate the eSIM in the app. Prices are the same as on a physical SIM. |
| 18-month contract plans | Yes | Contract plans are chosen on your account, not the SIM. giffgaff's eSIM help sets no plan restriction. |
| Pay As You Go (credit only) | No | New members can't activate an eSIM with credit alone. The credit-only option at sign-up isn't available for eSIM, so buy a plan first. |
New members usually connect as soon as the eSIM installs. Existing members switching SIMs usually wait under an hour, but it can take up to 24 hours at busy times. Switches only run from 4:30am to 9:30pm. giffgaff activates eSIMs in the app only: no QR codes, SM-DP+ addresses or manual codes. You need an internet connection. If it drops, reopen the app and carry on where you left off.
Your phone must support eSIM, be network unlocked and run the latest giffgaff app. giffgaff lists iPhone XS or later, Samsung Galaxy S20, Note 20 and Z Fold/Flip or later, Google Pixel 3 or later, and some Oppo, Honor, Sony and Xiaomi models. To check your phone, dial *#06#: if an EID number shows, it has eSIM. The app only offers the eSIM option on phones that support it.
The eSIM shows as active but calls, texts or data don't work
Set the giffgaff eSIM as the default line for calls, texts and data. Turn flight mode on for 10 seconds, then off. Disable any other SIMs and restart the phone.
The verification code never arrives
The code goes by text to your current number, so that SIM needs signal. Wait a few minutes, then request it again. If your eSIM can't receive texts, switch to a physical SIM first (no code needed when logged in), wait 24 hours, then switch back to eSIM.
I deleted my eSIM by mistake
A deleted eSIM can't be restored. Do two swaps at least 24 hours apart: first to a new physical SIM, then to a new eSIM in the app.
The switch won't start late at night
eSIM switches only run from 4:30am to 9:30pm. Try again inside that window.
My iPhone says 'Unable to activate eSIM'
Check Settings > Mobile Data. If the eSIM is listed and Turn On This Line is on, it should work normally.
Every fact on this page was checked against giffgaff's own help pages on 23 September 2026. Processes change, so check the official page before you start.
