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How to Import Contacts from SIM to iPhone: Step-by-Step Guide in 2025

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When changing phones or upgrading to a new device, importing contacts from the old phone to the new one is a crucial step. If you previously stored your contacts on a SIM card, you may want to import them directly to your new iPhone 16. While iPhones don't rely on SIM cards to store contacts like some Android phones do, they do provide an option for users to quickly add contacts from SIM to iPhone. Next, we will explain how to import SIM contacts to your iPhone.

import sim contacts iphone

 

Part 1: How to Import Contacts to iPhone from SIM?

If you've just switched to a new iPhone but are still using your old SIM card that holds your contacts, don't worry - moving them to your new phone is simple.

Here's a quick guide on how to import contacts from your SIM card to your iPhone.

Step 1. Insert your previous SIM card containing your contacts into your iPhone, ensuring it fits properly.

Step 2. Go to "Settings" > "Contacts" > "Import SIM Contacts". If prompted, select where you want to import your SIM contacts.

how to import contacts from sim card on iphone

Step 3. Wait for the import process to finish.

Step 4. Open the Contacts app to confirm that your contacts have been successfully imported. If necessary, you can replace the imported SIM card with your new one.

This is how to import contacts from SIM card to iPhone. Conversely, if you want to know how to copy contacts from iPhone to SIM card, you can click here to learn how to do it.

Note: Remember, your iPhone does not store contacts on the SIM card. To transfer contacts between iPhone devices, you can use iCloud to back up or move content between them.

Part 2: Transfer Contacts from Android/iPhone to iPhone in 1 Click

When switching to a new iPhone 17, whether you're upgrading from Android or an older iPhone, you'll want a quick and reliable way to move all your data. That's where Coolmuster Mobile Transfer comes in.

This powerful all-in-one tool makes transferring data between Android and iPhone simple and hassle-free. It supports over 6,000 Android and iOS devices and can transfer more than a dozen types of files, including contacts, text messages, photos, videos, music, and more. With just a few clicks, you can move everything you need from your old phone to your new one effortlessly.

What can Coolmuster Mobile Transfer do for you?

  • Transfer data between iOS and Android with just one click, such as from iOS to iOS, Android to iOS, iOS to Android, and Android to Android.
  • Effortlessly to transfer contacts from Android to iPhone or iPhone to iPhone.
  • Support to transfer contacts, SMS, photos, videos, music, calendar events, notes, and more.
  • Provide a simple, stable, and fast transfer process.
  • Compatible with the latest iOS 26 and Android 16.

Here is how to use Mobile Transfer to copy contacts from Android phone or iPhone to a new iPhone:

01Download and launch this tool on your computer, then connect your two devices to the computer using USB cables. For Android devices, please enable USB debugging. For iOS devices, unlock it and tap "Trust" when asked. (Note: you can also connect your Android device to the computer using Wi-Fi; you don't need a USB cable.)

02After successfully connecting, you will see the connected interface as follows. Please ensure that the Source device and Destination device are on the correct sides. If they're not, please click the "Flip" button to switch their positions.

the connected interface

03Check the "Contacts" option in the middle panel, then click the "Start Copy" button to move contacts to iPhone.

copy contacts to iphone using mobile transfer

Video Tutorial:

Part 3: Fix Can't Import Contacts from SIM to iPhone

If your iPhone isn't importing contacts from your SIM card, here are a few things you can try to solve the problem:

  • Check where your contacts are saved. Some contacts might not be stored on the SIM card but directly on your old phone. Make sure the contacts you want to import are actually on the SIM card.
  • Sync contacts from your phone if needed. If the contacts are saved on your phone instead of the SIM, you can use Coolmuster Mobile Transfer to copy contacts from your old iPhone or Android phone to your new iPhone.
  • Import SIM contacts manually. If your contacts are confirmed to be on the SIM card, open "Settings > Contacts", scroll down, and tap "Import SIM Contacts". This will move the SIM contacts into your iPhone's contact list.

Part 4: FAQs on Importing Contacts from SIM

Q1. Can I selectively import certain contacts from the SIM card?

Currently, the iPhone's built-in feature does not support selective import. The import process includes all contacts on the SIM card. However, you can manually delete any unwanted contacts from the Contacts app after the import is complete.

Q2. Why can't I find the "Import SIM Contacts" option?

If you can't find the "Import SIM Contacts" option in the Contacts settings, it may be due to compatibility issues between your iPhone and the SIM card. Please ensure that your iPhone supports the SIM card contact import feature. If the issue persists, it is recommended to contact Apple Support for assistance.

Q3. Will my contacts remain if I change the SIM card after importing the SIM card contacts?

Yes, the imported contacts will be stored in the iPhone's local storage or iCloud, and changing the SIM card will not affect these contacts.

Q4. Why are some contact details incomplete after importing SIM card contacts?

SIM cards store limited contact information, typically only including names and phone numbers. If you need more complete contact information, you can manually edit the details or use a third-party app (such as Coolmuster Mobile Transfer) for a comprehensive migration.

Final Verdict

That's all about how to export SIM contacts on iPhone. Overall, importing SIM card contacts to your iPhone is a straightforward process that can be accomplished using the iPhone's "Import SIM Contacts" feature. If you want a more convenient way to import contacts to your iPhone, whether directly from another iPhone or from an Android device, Coolmuster Mobile Transfer offers an efficient one-click solution.

We hope this article has helped you easily copy contacts from SIM to your iPhone. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below, and we will assist you promptly.

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