If you are wondering how to remove a SIM card from an iPhone or how to insert a new one, this complete guide covers every model from the iPhone 7 to the iPhone 16.

Whether you are switching carriers, activating a new number, traveling internationally, or moving your SIM to a new device, changing a nano SIM card on iPhone is simple and safe when done correctly.

While US models starting with the iPhone 14 use eSIM only, many international models and older devices still rely on a physical SIM tray.

Quick Summary: How to Change SIM Card on iPhone

To replace your iPhone SIM card:

1. Identify your iPhone model to locate the SIM tray.

2. Insert a SIM ejector tool or paperclip into the pinhole.

3. Remove the tray and swap the nano SIM.

4. Reinsert the tray until it sits flush.

5. For US iPhone 14, 15, and 16 models, activate eSIM in Settings instead.

Where Is the SIM Card Slot on iPhone?

The SIM tray location depends on your iPhone generation. Apple moved the tray from the right side to the left side starting with newer models.

iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 (International Models)

On the iPhone 12 and newer international models, the SIM tray is located on the left side of the device, below the volume buttons.

This applies to physical SIM versions of:

• iPhone 12 series

• iPhone 13

• iPhone 14 (international versions)

• iPhone 15

• iPhone 16

iPhone SE, 11, XR, 8, 7, and Earlier

For older models, the SIM tray is on the right side, below the power button.

This includes:

• iPhone 11

• iPhone XR

• iPhone 8

• iPhone 7

• iPhone SE

Why Does My iPhone Have No SIM Card Slot?

If you purchased your device in the United States and own an iPhone 14, 15, or 16, you will not see a SIM tray.

Apple removed the physical SIM slot starting with US versions of the iPhone 14. These models use eSIM technology, which is a digital SIM embedded directly in the phone.

To activate or switch carriers on these devices:

Go to Settings
Tap Cellular
Select Add eSIM

There is no physical card to remove.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove and Insert SIM Card on iPhone

Follow these steps carefully to avoid damaging your device.

Step 1: Power Off (Recommended)

Although iPhones support hot swapping, turning off the device prevents temporary network issues.

Step 2: Locate the SIM Tray

Find the small circular pinhole on the side of your phone.

Step 3: Insert SIM Eject Tool

Insert the Apple SIM ejector tool or a straightened paperclip into the hole.
Press firmly straight inward until the tray pops out slightly.

Step 4: Remove and Replace the SIM

Pull the tray out gently.
Remove the old nano SIM card.
Place the new SIM card into the tray, aligning the notched corner correctly.

The SIM only fits one way.

Step 5: Reinsert the Tray

Slide the tray back in until it clicks and sits flush with the phone’s frame.
Turn your iPhone back on.

How to Open iPhone SIM Card Slot Without Tool

If you lost your SIM ejector tool, you can use:

• A straightened paperclip

• A small earring post

• A carefully bent staple

• A sewing needle used gently

Always push straight into the pinhole and avoid using excessive force.

Will I Lose Data If I Change My SIM Card?

No. Changing your SIM card does not delete contacts, photos, apps, or messages.

Modern iPhones store data internally or in iCloud. The SIM card only controls your phone number and cellular connection.

iPhone Says “No Service” After SIM Change

If your iPhone shows No Service after inserting a new SIM:

1. Toggle Airplane Mode on for 10 seconds and turn it off.

2. Restart the device.

3. Go to Settings, then General, then About to check for a carrier settings update.

4. Remove and reseat the SIM card to ensure it is flat in the tray.

Can You Swap SIM Cards Between iPhones?

Yes. All models from iPhone 5 through iPhone 16 use nano SIM cards.

However, the receiving phone must be:

• Unlocked, or

• Locked to the same carrier as the SIM

If switching to a US iPhone 14, 15, or 16, you may need to convert your physical SIM to eSIM instead.

Can You Insert SIM Without Tray?

No. Never insert a SIM card directly into the slot without the tray.
This can damage internal contacts and may require professional repair.

When Should You Insert SIM in a New iPhone?

Insert your SIM during initial setup. This ensures:

• Immediate network activation

• Faster verification for iMessage and FaceTime

• Proper carrier configuration

Final Thoughts

Learning how to remove and replace a SIM card on iPhone is essential for switching numbers, changing carriers, or activating a new plan. Whether you are using an older device like the iPhone 7 or a newer model like the iPhone 16, the process remains straightforward.

If your device supports physical SIM, follow the tray removal steps carefully. If you own a US model without a tray, use eSIM activation directly in Settings.