The thing with getting a SIM in order to transfer it to an eSIM is that you sometimes have to activate a SIM before you can transfer it to an eSIM. And if you do not have the option to stick a SIM into your iPhone, you probably are not able to activate it. This for sure is the reason why Apple has not listed those prepaid providers that still send a SIM before exchanging it to an eSIM. Our German Telekom still does this SIM to eSIM dance (if you are using their prepaid options). Vodafone does not: you get an eSIM right from the beginning. You will only receive a SIM if you request one. Which may be the reason why Apple does list Vodafone only. I find Apple’s list to be very helpful to be honest.
It also may be an option to look into special providers like
or