You need the SIM ejector tool and a few minutes

Changing a SIM card in an iPhone takes about five minutes and requires only the SIM ejector tool that comes in the iPhone box. The process is the same across all current iPhone models. You locate the SIM tray on the side of the phone, insert the ejector tool into the small hole, remove the tray, swap the old SIM for the new one, and slide the tray back in.

The SIM tray is a small metal slot, not a removable panel. You cannot open it with your fingernail or a coin — the ejector tool is designed to fit the hole precisely and prevent damage. If you have lost the tool, Apple sells replacements for a few dollars, or a straightened paperclip works in a pinch.

Key Takeaways

  • The SIM tray location depends on your iPhone model: iPhone 14 and newer have it on the right side, older models have it on the left side.
  • Insert the ejector tool straight into the hole next to the SIM tray until the tray pops out — do not force it or angle the tool.
  • The SIM card sits in a small notch inside the tray with the gold contacts facing down; it only fits one way.
  • After inserting the new SIM, push the tray back in until you hear or feel a click, which means it is fully seated.
  • Your iPhone will search for the carrier network after the SIM is installed; this usually takes a minute or two.

Where the SIM tray is located on your iPhone

The location of the SIM tray changed with iPhone 14. On iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max, the tray is on the right side of the phone, below the power button. On iPhone 13 and earlier models, the tray is on the left side, below the volume buttons.

You will see a small hole next to the SIM tray slot. This hole is where you insert the ejector tool. The hole is intentionally small to prevent accidental opening and to ensure the tool sits flush against the release mechanism inside.

Step-by-step: removing and replacing the SIM card

Power off your iPhone before removing the SIM card. This is not strictly required, but it prevents the phone from searching for a network signal while the tray is open and reduces the risk of the tray being pushed in accidentally while the phone is active.

Take the SIM ejector tool and insert it straight into the hole next to the SIM tray. Push gently but firmly until you feel resistance — the tray will pop out slightly. Do not angle the tool or apply sideways pressure; the mechanism is designed for straight insertion only. Remove the tray completely by pulling it out with your fingers.

The SIM card sits in a small notch inside the tray with the gold contact pins facing downward. Lift the old SIM card out of the notch. Place the new SIM card into the same notch, making sure the gold contacts face down and the card sits flat. The card will only fit in one orientation — if it does not slide in smoothly, flip it and try again.

Reinsert the tray into the phone by sliding it back into the slot. Push it in until you hear or feel a click, which indicates the tray is fully seated and locked. Turn the phone back on. Your iPhone will search for the carrier network and display a signal indicator within a minute or two.

What happens if the SIM tray is stuck

If the tray does not pop out after inserting the ejector tool, do not force it. Stop and try again with steady, straight pressure. A stuck tray usually means the tool is not aligned with the release hole, not that something is broken.

If the hole appears blocked or the tray has never been opened, try inserting the tool at a very slight angle to find the exact spot where it catches. Once you feel the mechanism engage, push straight in. If the tray remains stuck after several attempts, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store — forcing the tool can damage the phone's internal components.

Checking that the SIM card is working

After the phone restarts, open Settings and tap Cellular. You should see your carrier name displayed under Cellular Data Network. If you see "No Service" or "Emergency Calls Only" after waiting two minutes, the SIM may not be fully seated. Power off the phone, remove the tray again, and reseat the SIM card, making sure it sits flat in the notch.

If the phone still shows no service after reinserting the SIM, the card itself may be damaged or your carrier account may not be activated yet. Contact your carrier to confirm the SIM is active on your account. Some carriers require you to register a new SIM before it will work, even if you are switching from an old SIM on the same account.

Using an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card

Many iPhones support eSIM, a digital SIM that does not require a physical card. If your carrier offers eSIM, you can add it through Settings without opening the phone. Go to Settings, tap Cellular, select Add Cellular Plan, and follow the prompts to scan a QR code or enter details your carrier provides.

You can use both a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time on most iPhones, which is useful for keeping a work number and a personal number active simultaneously. However, only one SIM can be active for data at any given moment — you choose which one in Settings under Cellular Plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my SIM card without turning off my iPhone?

Yes, you can remove and replace the SIM while the phone is on. Powering off is recommended to avoid interruptions while the phone searches for a network signal, but it is not required. If you change the SIM while the phone is on, it will search for the new carrier's network automatically.

What if I lose the SIM ejector tool?

A straightened paperclip or a thin safety pin works as a substitute. The hole is small, so the tool needs to be thin and straight. Apple also sells replacement ejector tools for a few dollars if you prefer an official tool. Some carriers provide ejector tools as well.

Will changing my SIM card erase my data?

No. The SIM card stores only your phone number and carrier information. All your photos, messages, contacts, and apps are stored on the phone's internal storage, not on the SIM. Changing the SIM will not affect any of your data.

How long does it take for the new SIM to work?

Usually one to two minutes. After you reinsert the tray and turn the phone back on, it will search for the carrier network. You should see a signal indicator and your carrier name appear in the status bar within a couple of minutes. If nothing appears after five minutes, restart the phone.

Can I put my old SIM in a different iPhone?

Yes, as long as the other iPhone is not locked to a different carrier. Your SIM card will work in any unlocked iPhone that supports the same SIM size. If the other phone uses a different SIM size (nano-SIM, micro-SIM, or standard SIM), you will need to contact your carrier for a replacement SIM in the correct size.