The error message “Cellular plans from this carrier cannot be added” usually appears when your device does not accept the eSIM plan. There are a few common reasons for this.
Most common causes:
1. Device is SIM-locked
Many smartphones are locked to a specific mobile carrier, especially if they were purchased with a contract. In this case, eSIMs from other providers — such as eSIMony — cannot be added.
How to check this:
- iPhone: Settings > General > About → “Carrier Lock”
- Android: Settings > About Phone > Status / SIM Status
2. If it says “No SIM restrictions”, your device is unlocked. If a lock is shown, the device must first be unlocked by the original carrier.
3. Device or model not compatible
Not every smartphone supports eSIM, and not all eSIM profiles work on every model. Regional differences between device versions can also play a role. Make sure your exact device model supports eSIM.
4. Restrictions by device or network provider
In rare cases, carriers restrict which types of plans can be used (for example, allowing only postpaid plans and not prepaid eSIMs). This can also trigger the error message.
What you can do: If your device is SIM-locked, the best option is to contact the original mobile carrier or retailer. They can tell you if and how your device can be unlocked. Once unlocked, eSIMs can usually be added without any issues. In short, this error is almost always caused by the device itself or a carrier restriction — not by the eSIM.
