iOS · iPhone & iPad

How To fix No SIM or Invalid SIM Card Error on iPhone

Original source date 13 February 2023

Answer

First, open up your iPhone settings. Here, under Mobile Data, ensure that your primary SIM card is selected. It should switch over automatically, but when using an eSIM, your device might not use the inserted SIM card.

Enable Mobile Data for Primary SIM Card

First, open up your iPhone settings. Here, under Mobile Data, ensure that your primary SIM card is selected.

It should switch over automatically, but when using an eSIM, your device might no…

It should switch over automatically, but when using an eSIM, your device might not use the inserted SIM card.

Choose the correct SIM card in your mobile data settings

Under Data Plans, make sure that your primary plan is enabled and that all other…

Under Data Plans, make sure that your primary plan is enabled and that all other settings are set to their default values. Ensure that you have an active plan running with your wireless carrier.

Update & Restart iPhone

If this is the case, and the issue is unrelated to the card itself, head to your General settings. Here, tap on Software Update and make sure that your iPhone is running the latest iOS update.

iPhone Settings > General > Software Update

After downloading and installing the update, make sure to restart your device

After downloading and installing the update, make sure to restart your device. Restarting your iPhone will restart all processes, which can in a lot of cases, fix the SIM card error you are getting.

Remove & Replace SIM Card

If nothing helps you out, then proceed to remove your SIM card, where you can see if it fits properly. You can use a different card from a family member for example to see if this allows you to fix the SIM card error. In this case, the problem is related to your own SIM card, and you should proceed to get a new card with the same number or even better try getting an eSIM.

Reset Network Settings

Lastly, if you have ever changed some mobile data settings or if you recently changed your location, then it might be a good idea to reset your network settings. In your General settings, scroll down and tap on Transfer or Reset iPhone.

iPhone Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone

Select Reset and then Reset Network Settings

Select Reset and then Reset Network Settings. After entering your passcode, your iPhone will restart with the factory network settings, which will, in a lot of cases, fix the SIM card error you are getting if the problem is not related to the card itself.

Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset Network Settings

If it does not work

What is a "No SIM" or "Invalid SIM Card" error?. This error message appears when your iPhone is unable to detect your SIM card or the SIM card is not recognized by the device. This can be due to various reasons, such as a damaged SIM card, a software glitch, or a hardware problem with your iPhone.
Can I resolve the "No SIM" or "Invalid SIM Card" error on my own?. Yes, you can resolve this error on your own by following the steps outlined in this article. You will need to check the SIM card, restart your iPhone, and update your software to resolve the issue.
Will I lose my data if I reset my iPhone to resolve the error?. Resetting your iPhone to resolve the error will not result in the loss of your data. However, it's always a good idea to backup your data before resetting your device to avoid any data loss.
Can the "No SIM" or "Invalid SIM Card" error be a permanent problem?. No, this error is not a permanent problem and can be resolved by following the steps outlined in this article. However, if the issue persists after trying these steps, you may need to visit an Apple store for further assistance.