Can you get an eSIM for a prepaid plan?
Yes, most major Australian providers offer the option to get an eSIM for a prepaid plan, though it was historically more common for postpaid (month-to-month) plans.
It’s important to keep in mind that you can’t always choose an eSIM directly when you first sign up. In some cases, you might need to buy a physical SIM starter pack first and then swap it for an eSIM via the provider’s app or website. However, most major Aussie telcos now allow you to select an eSIM right at the checkout.
What do you need to enable a prepaid eSIM?
To use a prepaid eSIM, you need a mobile phone that is eSIM compatible and a provider that supports eSIMs specifically for prepaid services. While the technology is becoming standard, some smaller MVNOs still only offer physical SIM cards for their prepaid range.
How to get a prepaid eSIM
- Choose your plan: Select the prepaid plan you want on the provider’s website or via their app.
- Select SIM type: During checkout, specify that you want an eSIM rather than a physical SIM card.
- Complete the ID check: In Australia, you must provide ID (like a driver’s licence or passport) to activate any prepaid service.
- Activate: The provider will usually send you a QR code via email, or instructions to activate the eSIM directly through their app (like the My Optus or My Telstra app).
The exact process varies. For example, some providers allow for “instant activation” where the eSIM is pushed directly to your device settings without needing to scan a code.
Activate the prepaid eSIM on your device
On iPhone
- Connect to Wi-Fi or use your existing mobile data.
- Go to Settings > Mobile > Add eSIM.
- Follow the instructions to scan the QR code provided by your telco.
On Samsung
- Connect to Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM.
- Follow the prompts to scan your QR code.
On Google Pixel
- Connect to Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM.
- Select “Download a SIM instead?” and scan the QR code.
What are the benefits of a prepaid eSIM?
The standout benefit is instant connectivity. If your provider supports direct eSIM sign-ups, you can get connected in minutes without waiting for the mail or driving to a Woolies or Coles to buy a SIM kit
Other reasons to choose a prepaid eSIM
- Dual SIM capability: You can keep your Aussie number active on an eSIM while using a physical SIM slot for travel, or have a work and personal number on the one phone.
- Eco-friendly: No plastic waste and no carbon footprint from shipping a physical card.
- Easy switching: It makes “plan hopping” to find a better deal much faster.
Are there any drawbacks to choosing an eSIM?
The main hurdle is moving your service to a new phone. Unlike a physical SIM that you just pop out and swap, transferring an eSIM often requires you to log into your account and request a new “eSIM profile” or QR code.
Also, if your phone breaks and the screen won’t turn on, you can’t easily retrieve your SIM to put it into a backup phone.
Can I convert my physical SIM to a prepaid eSIM?
Yes, if you already have a physical SIM card, most major Australian telcos make it easy to convert your service to an eSIM. This is a popular move for those who want to free up their phone’s physical SIM slot for a secondary line or for use when travelling overseas.
How to convert to a prepaid eSIM with different providers
- Telstra and Optus: You can typically convert your physical SIM to an eSIM directly through the My Telstra or My Optus app. It’s a seamless “self-service” swap that doesn’t require you to visit a retail store.
- Vodafone: Offers the ability to convert to an eSIM via your online account or by heading into a local Vodafone store if you prefer face-to-face help.
- amaysim & Boost Mobile: As some of Australia’s most popular prepaid providers, they offer a simple “SIM swap” feature in their apps that allows you to move from plastic to digital in just a few taps.
Please note! When you convert to an eSIM, your physical SIM card will be permanently deactivated. Make sure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi network before you start the conversion to ensure your new eSIM profile downloads correctly.
Which is the cheapest prepaid eSIM?
ALDI Mobile 365 Days is the cheapest prepaid eSIM right now (checked on 22/10/26). Top up from $2.00.
Frequently asked questions about prepaid eSIM
In most cases, no. Providers usually charge the same price for the plan itself, regardless of whether you choose a physical SIM or an eSIM.
Not yet. While the major networks do, some smaller “budget” providers are still physical-SIM only. Always check the Critical Information Summary or the FAQ on the provider’s site.
Yes, provided the plan you’ve chosen includes 5G access and you have a 5G-compatible device. Most Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone prepaid plans now include 5G.
Mainly for the convenience of not having to wait for delivery. But also for the ability to use Dual SIM features on your iPhone or Android device.
