Here's the 10-second way to check if your iPhone (or Android) is carrier-unlocked, plus what to do if it isn't. You need an unlocked phone before a travel eSIM will work.
How to check if your iPhone is unlocked
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap General, then About, and scroll down.
- Find Carrier Lock.
If it says "No SIM restrictions", your iPhone is unlocked and can use a travel eSIM.
If it says "SIM locked" or shows a carrier name, your phone is locked. Ask your carrier (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, etc.) to unlock it before you travel — it can take a day or two.
Android: the wording varies by brand. Try a SIM from another carrier, or search Settings for "SIM lock" / "Network lock". If in doubt, ask your carrier.
Is your phone unlocked?
A travel eSIM only works on a carrier-unlocked phone. On iPhone, open Settings → General → About and check “Carrier Lock” — it should say “No SIM restrictions”.
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The other half: does your phone support eSIM?
Being unlocked isn't enough on its own — your phone also needs to support eSIM (iPhone XS+, Pixel 3+, Galaxy S20+ and most recent flagships). Check if your phone is eSIM compatible →
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if my iPhone is unlocked?
Open Settings > General > About and scroll down to "Carrier Lock". If it says "No SIM restrictions", your iPhone is unlocked. If it says "SIM locked" or shows a carrier name, your phone is locked to that carrier.
What does "No SIM restrictions" mean?
"No SIM restrictions" is Apple's way of saying your iPhone is carrier-unlocked — it will accept a SIM or eSIM from any network, including a travel eSIM. It's exactly what you want to see.
How do I check if my Android phone is unlocked?
The wording varies by brand, but try inserting a SIM from a different carrier, or go to Settings and search "SIM lock" / "Network lock". If it connects and works with another carrier's SIM, it's unlocked. When in doubt, ask your carrier.
My phone is locked — how do I unlock it?
Contact your carrier (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, etc.) and request a carrier unlock. Most will unlock a phone once it's paid off or after a set period. If it's financed, ask whether they offer a temporary international unlock for travel. Do this before you leave, as it can take a day or two.
Why does being unlocked matter for a travel eSIM?
A travel eSIM works by connecting to a foreign or local network at your destination. A phone locked to your home carrier will refuse any other network's SIM or eSIM, so the travel eSIM simply won't activate — no matter how good the plan is.
Unlocked and eSIM-ready? You're good to go.
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