How to Install eSIM on Android
Learn how to add, install and activate an eSIM on Android phones, including Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel. This guide also covers what to check before installation and how to fix common eSIM setup issues.
Quick answer: To install an eSIM on Android, open your phone’s Settings, go to Connections, Network & internet, or SIM manager, choose Add eSIM or Download a SIM, scan your eSIM QR code, then set the eSIM for mobile data. When you arrive at your destination, turn on data roaming for the eSIM.
Compatible phone
Your Android phone must support eSIM. Not every Android model has eSIM capability.
Unlocked device
Your phone should be carrier-unlocked if you want to use a travel eSIM from another provider.
Stable internet
Use stable Wi-Fi when installing your eSIM. Avoid starting the setup with weak internet.
Before You Install an eSIM on Android
Before you add an eSIM to your Android phone, make sure your device is ready. eSIM installation usually takes only a few minutes, but the setup may fail if your phone is not compatible, carrier-locked, or connected to an unstable network.
Pre-installation checklist
- Make sure your Android phone supports eSIM.
- Check that your phone is carrier-unlocked.
- Connect your phone to stable Wi-Fi.
- Prepare your eSIM QR code or manual activation details.
- Do not scan the QR code with another phone unless the instructions ask you to.
- Do not delete the eSIM after installation unless you are sure it is no longer needed.
Android settings can look different depending on your phone brand and Android version. Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Motorola, Xiaomi, OPPO and other Android phones may use different menu names, but the general process is similar: find the SIM settings, add an eSIM, scan the QR code, and activate the plan.
How to Install eSIM on Android with a QR Code
Most travel eSIMs are installed using a QR code. After purchase, you will usually receive an eSIM QR code by email. Follow the steps below to install and activate your eSIM on Android.
Open your Android settings
On your Android phone, open the Settings app. Depending on your phone, the eSIM settings may be under Connections, Network & internet, Mobile network, or SIM manager.
Go to the SIM or mobile network section
Look for the section where your mobile plans and SIM cards are managed. You may see your physical SIM, current mobile plan, or an option to add another SIM.
Choose Add eSIM or Download a SIM
Tap Add eSIM, Add mobile plan, Download a SIM, or a similar option. Your phone will start the eSIM setup process.
Scan your eSIM QR code
Use your phone camera to scan the eSIM QR code provided after purchase. Make sure the QR code is clear and not cropped. If you received the QR code on the same phone, open it on another device or print it so your Android phone can scan it.
Confirm and install the eSIM
After scanning the QR code, your phone should recognize the eSIM plan. Confirm the installation and wait until the setup is complete. This may take a few minutes.
Name your eSIM plan
If your phone allows you to label the plan, give it a clear name such as Travel eSIM, Japan eSIM, or Europe eSIM. This makes it easier to choose the correct SIM later.
Set the eSIM for mobile data
When you are ready to use the eSIM, set it as your mobile data SIM. If you are still at home before your trip, you can install the eSIM first and switch mobile data to the eSIM after arrival.
Turn on data roaming after arrival
For most travel eSIMs, data roaming must be turned on for the eSIM line. When you arrive at your destination, enable the eSIM, select it for mobile data, and turn on data roaming.
Important: Many travel eSIM plans start counting validity when they connect to a supported local network, but this can vary by provider. Always check your eSIM plan instructions before installation.
How to Install eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
Samsung Galaxy phones usually manage eSIM settings under SIM manager. If your Samsung model supports eSIM, you can add a travel eSIM by scanning the QR code.
Samsung Galaxy path
After installation, go back to SIM manager and choose which SIM should be used for mobile data. Turn on data roaming for your travel eSIM when you arrive.
Samsung tips
- If you do not see Add eSIM, your model or region may not support eSIM.
- Make sure your phone is updated to a recent software version.
- Use Wi-Fi during setup and wait until the installation is complete.
How to Install eSIM on Google Pixel
Google Pixel phones usually manage eSIM under Network & internet. The wording may vary slightly depending on your Android version.
Google Pixel path
Scan your QR code, confirm the plan, and wait for the eSIM to install. After that, choose your eSIM for mobile data when you want to use it.
Pixel tips
- If activation takes longer than expected, keep your phone connected to Wi-Fi.
- Restart your phone if the plan is installed but data does not work.
- Check that data roaming is enabled for your eSIM line.
How to Manually Add an eSIM on Android
If scanning the QR code does not work, some eSIM providers also offer manual activation details. These may include an SM-DP+ address and an activation code.
To install manually, go to the eSIM setup screen and look for an option such as Enter code manually, Use activation code, or Enter details manually. Then enter the details exactly as provided.
Tip: Manual eSIM details must be entered carefully. A small typo in the SM-DP+ address or activation code may cause setup failure.
How to Activate eSIM on Android After Installation
Installing an eSIM and using an eSIM are not always the same step. After the eSIM is installed, you may still need to activate it for mobile data.
- Open Settings.
- Go to SIMs, Mobile network, or SIM manager.
- Turn on your travel eSIM line.
- Set the travel eSIM as the preferred SIM for mobile data.
- Turn on Data roaming for the eSIM.
- Restart your phone if the network does not connect after a few minutes.
If you want to keep your original phone number active for calls or SMS, you can usually keep your physical SIM turned on and use the eSIM only for mobile data. This is helpful for receiving verification codes while traveling.
Common Android eSIM Problems and Fixes
Why can’t I find the Add eSIM option on Android?
If you cannot find the eSIM option, your phone may not support eSIM, your device may be carrier-locked, or your specific model may not include eSIM in your region. Some Android phones have different hardware versions for different countries.
Why is my eSIM QR code not working?
Make sure you are connected to stable Wi-Fi, the QR code is clear, and you are scanning the correct code. Some eSIM QR codes can only be used once. If the eSIM was already installed on another device, it may not be reusable.
Why is my eSIM stuck activating?
Keep your phone connected to Wi-Fi and wait a few minutes. If it remains stuck, restart your phone and check the eSIM status again. Avoid deleting the eSIM unless your provider tells you to do so.
Why does my eSIM show no service?
Check that your eSIM line is turned on, mobile data is set to the eSIM, data roaming is enabled, and you are in a supported destination. You can also try turning airplane mode on and off or restarting the phone.
Can I install an eSIM before travel?
In most cases, yes. You can install your eSIM before departure using stable Wi-Fi, then turn it on and use it after you arrive. However, always read your plan instructions because activation rules can vary.
Final Tips Before Using eSIM on Android
Installing an eSIM on Android is usually simple, but the exact menu names can vary by phone brand. If you are using a Samsung Galaxy, start from SIM manager. If you are using a Google Pixel, start from Network & internet. For other Android phones, look for Mobile network, SIMs, or eSIM in Settings.
For travel, the safest setup is to install your eSIM with stable Wi-Fi before your trip, keep the eSIM saved on your phone, and activate mobile data and data roaming after you arrive. This helps you connect quickly without searching for a physical SIM card at the airport.