QR Code Has Already Been Used — Airalo eSIM Reinstall
Trying to install an Airalo eSIM on a new phone or after reinstalling produces the error "QR code has already been used" or "This QR code has already been activated." This is the most unambiguous Airalo error: the package was installed once, and the same QR will not work again — even if you deleted the eSIM. Here is what you can do.
Why this error happens
- One QR, one install. Per eSIM technical standards, Airalo uses single-use activation codes. Once iPhone or Android successfully downloads the profile from the SM-DP+ server, the code is marked used.
- eSIM was installed and deleted. If you installed the eSIM and then removed it (e.g., switching to a new phone), the same QR cannot bring it back.
- Accidental double scan. Sometimes a friend's or partner's device "grabs" the code before your primary phone uses it.
- Restore from iPhone backup. eSIM profiles don't carry over via iCloud backup (iOS 16+ added eSIM Quick Transfer, but it only works iPhone → iPhone).
How to fix it
- Open Airalo chat. Airalo app → My eSIMs → select the package → Need Help? → Chat. Or airalo.com → chat icon at the bottom of the page.
- Describe the situation. "My eSIM was installed but the device is broken / replaced / restored. The QR code shows already used. Please reissue the eSIM profile for package [package name]."
- Wait for the agent. In a standard case the agent issues a new QR on the same package (if the data is not spent) or offers compensation.
- iPhone-to-iPhone transfer (iOS 16+). Settings → Cellular → select the eSIM → Convert to eSIM or Transfer eSIM → choose the second iPhone. No reinstall needed.
- If the package is partly used — remaining balance does not transfer, and Airalo will likely suggest buying a new package rather than recovering the old one.
- Screenshot the error. Support agents respond faster with the exact error and package name in front of them.
What transfers and what does not
| Scenario | Can recover? | How |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone broken, eSIM not deleted | Sometimes | Request to Airalo support |
| You deleted the eSIM yourself | Rarely | Paid reissue or new package |
| iPhone to iPhone | Yes | eSIM Quick Transfer (iOS 16+) |
| iPhone to Android | No | Buy a new package |
| Factory reset of iPhone | Depends | Through iCloud eSIM list (iOS 17+) |
Safer way to get a working eSIM
With Marix you buy an Airalo eSIM and pay in your local currency, and your install details stay in your marix.cc account even after install. If a reissue is needed because of a broken device or hardware change, Marix support can act as an intermediary with Airalo, handle the English chat, and push the case to a new QR. Especially useful when you are abroad and don't want to deal with international support yourself.