How to Switch from Physical SIM to eSIM for Free – Rakuten Mobile Guide | Save Money with Employee Referral Campaign, Affordable Mobile Plans, and SIM Card Tips

Post published:September 26, 2025
Post last modified:September 25, 2025
Post category:Rakuten Mobile
Reading time:2 mins read

With the latest iPhones and many Android smartphones moving toward eSIM-only support, switching from a physical SIM to an eSIM is becoming increasingly important.

With Rakuten Mobile, you can switch to eSIM for free and entirely through the app.
This article explains the process and key points you should know.

What is eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile plan without using a physical SIM card.

No need to insert or replace a SIM card
Activation is instant after applying
Convenient for dual SIM usage

Check if Your Device Supports eSIM

Before switching, make sure your device is eSIM-compatible.

All iPhones from iPhone XS / XR and later support eSIM
For Android, availability varies by model. Check Rakuten Mobile’s official eSIM supported devices list
If your phone is locked to another carrier, you may need to unlock the SIM first

Steps to Switch from Physical SIM to eSIM

You can complete the procedure easily with the My Rakuten Mobile app.

1.Launch the My Rakuten Mobile app

Open the app and go to the “Lines” screen.

2.Select “SIM REISSUE”

From “SIM AND LINE ACTIONS”, tap “SIM REISSUE”.
※ If you have multiple lines, make sure the line you want to reissue is displayed.

3.Choose the reason and SIM type

Under “REASON FOR SIM CARD REISSUE”, select “OTHER SIM CARD ISSUE”, and set the SIM type to “eSIM”.
※ If you select “Lost/Stolen,” your line will be suspended until the new SIM is activated.

4.Authenticate with a one-time password

A one-time password (OTP) will be sent via SMS. Enter it and tap “CONTINUE”.
※ If you don’t receive the SMS, check the official help page on “What to do if OTP cannot be received or entered.”

5.Confirm application details

Review your application details and line number, then tap “Confirm”.
※ Make sure both the SIM type and line are correct before proceeding.

6.Download the eSIM profile

You’ll receive an email titled “[Rakuten Mobile] Request to download eSIM profile.”
Follow the instructions to download the profile, and the switch will be complete.

👇️For detailed instructions on setting up the eSIM on your device, see this article
Rakuten Mobile eSIM Guide | Setup, Benefits, and Supported Devices

Switching to eSIM is an essential step for the future of smartphones.
With Rakuten Mobile, you can switch for free and easily via the app, so you can enjoy your smartphone with peace of mind.

Greetings! This website is a Rakuten Mobile guide by Rakuten employees. We are here to support and assist people from various countries living in Japan. We believe Rakuten Mobile can make your life in Japan more comfortable. If you feel that smartphone fees are very high in Japan, please take this opportunity to consider Rakuten Mobile! With our Employee Referral Campaign, you can receive 14,000 Rakuten Points for switching from another mobile carrier or 7,000 Rakuten Points for other contracts. First, please log into the Rakuten Mobile Employee Referral Campaign site using your Rakuten ID.