Firsty BuildersHelpCan I reuse an esimReference across multiple plans?
Architecture

Can I reuse an esimReference across multiple plans?

Yes. esimReference is the physical eSIM profile. You can attach multiple plans to it over time (top-ups). profileReference is the per-plan attachment.

The short answer

Yes.

esimReference
represents the physical eSIM profile on the device. You attach plans to it over its lifetime. Each plan attachment is a separate
profileReference
.

The mental model

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  • esimReference
    = the SIM card slot. One per device.
  • profileReference
    = a plan attached to that slot. Many per
    esimReference
    over time.
  • iccid
    = the GSMA identifier. One per
    esimReference
    , never changes.

Typical lifecycle

1. Create eSIM         -> returns esimReference + iccid
2. Customer installs   -> esim.activated webhook
3. Attach plan A       -> returns profileReference_A
4. Plan A expires      -> profile.expired webhook
5. Attach plan B       -> returns profileReference_B (same esimReference)
6. Customer top-up...  -> repeat

When you should NOT reuse

  • After 12 months of no activity. The carrier reclaims the slot.
  • If the customer formally cancels and you call
    DELETE /esims/{ref}
    .
  • For testing: always create a fresh sandbox eSIM per test run.

See the identifiers guide for the full breakdown.

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