How to Install an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy: Step-by-Step Guide 2026
By
Hieu Nguyen
With eSIM technology, you can connect to mobile networks without needing a physical SIM card. Installing an eSIM is easier than ever on compatible Samsung Galaxy devices. BitJoy will guide you through making a quick connection in just a few minutes.
With eSIM technology, you can connect to mobile networks without needing a physical SIM card. Installing an eSIM is easier than ever on compatible Samsung Galaxy devices. BitJoy will guide you through making a quick connection in just a few minutes.
Quick answer: on a Samsung Galaxy, connect to Wi-Fi, then go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM. Tap Scan QR code and scan the code from your carrier or eSIM provider, or tap Enter activation code to type it in. Confirm, wait for the eSIM to download, and restart the phone if asked. For a travel eSIM, then turn on the eSIM line and Data roaming when you arrive.
Table of contents
Preparation Before Installing an eSIM
Before you start, check these four things:
- Your Galaxy supports eSIM. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager: if you see Add eSIM, it does. Most Galaxy S, Z and recent A models do, but some regional versions don't (see how to check if your phone is eSIM compatible).
- Your phone is unlocked if the eSIM is from a different carrier than the one that sold you the phone.
- You have the QR code or activation code. Carriers give it in store, in their app or by email. BitJoy emails your QR code and a direct install link right after purchase.
- You're on stable Wi-Fi. The eSIM profile downloads over the internet. If the QR code is in an email, open it on a second screen (a laptop or another phone) so you can scan it.
Data: 5GB
Validity: 30
Days
Methods to Install an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
There are several ways to install an eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy device, depending on your carrier and the information provided. Samsung offers three ways: scan a QR code, enter an activation code manually, or, with some carriers, add a plan that is already assigned to your phone (eSIM Simple Setup).
Install with a QR code (Settings > SIM manager)
This is the usual method and the one shown in the screenshot below:
- Open Settings and tap Connections.
- Tap SIM manager, then Add eSIM.
- Tap Scan QR code (on some versions, "Scan QR code from service provider").
- Point the camera at the QR code and tap Add or Confirm when the plan appears.
- Wait for the eSIM to download, then restart the phone if prompted.
Once installed, the eSIM appears under eSIMs in SIM manager, where you can turn it on or off and rename it. On older One UI versions the menu is called "SIM card manager" and the button "Add mobile plan".
Enter the activation code manually
If you can't scan the code, for example when it's on the same phone, enter it by hand:
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM.
- Tap Scan QR code, then tap Enter activation code.
- Type or paste the activation code from your provider. For travel eSIMs this is usually the SM-DP+ address and activation code shown under the QR code (often in the format LPA:1$address$code).
- Tap Connect and wait for the eSIM to download.
You don't normally need to set an APN: it's configured automatically. Only add one manually if your provider gives you APN details and data doesn't work.
After installing: use the eSIM for data
Installing the eSIM doesn't switch your data to it. For a travel eSIM, do this when you land:
- In SIM manager, make sure the travel eSIM is switched on.
- Under Preferred SIMs (or Primary SIM), set Mobile data to the travel eSIM.
- Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks and turn on Data roaming for the eSIM.
- Keep your home SIM on for calls and texts if you like, or turn its roaming off to avoid charges.
Install the eSIM at home before your trip while you have Wi-Fi, and turn it on once you arrive. Many travel eSIMs only start their validity when they first connect to a network at your destination.
Common Issues When Installing an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
Although installing an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy device is usually simple, some users may run into issues. Here are the most frequent problems and how to resolve them.
- QR Code Issues:
If the QR code doesn’t scan, clean your camera lens and ensure the code is clearly visible. Adjust lighting or screen distance as needed. If the code is expired or already used, request a new one from your carrier.
- Connectivity Problems:
After installation, no signal may mean the eSIM isn’t enabled. Try restarting your phone, toggling Airplane Mode, or enabling data roaming if abroad. Removing your physical SIM may also help avoid conflicts.
- Activation Errors:
“Plan already in use” usually means the QR code has already been used: most eSIM QR codes work only once, so the profile may already be on this phone (check SIM manager) or on another device. “eSIM isn’t ready” is often a network delay; wait a few minutes, check your Wi-Fi and restart. If the code was used or you deleted the eSIM, ask your provider for a new one (BitJoy customers can contact support with their order email).
- Device-Related Issues:
Make sure your Samsung model supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Some models don’t support eSIM, and outdated software may cause problems. Check for system updates to ensure compatibility.
- Other Potential Issues:
Incorrect APN settings or multiple saved eSIM profiles can cause conflicts. Enter APN details manually if needed and delete unused eSIMs to avoid setup or connectivity issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM Installation on Samsung Devices
You've got questions about installing eSIMs on your Samsung Galaxy? Here are some frequently asked questions to shed some light:
Will installing an eSIM erase my data?
Generally, no. Installing an eSIM profile is similar to configuring a new SIM card. It doesn't typically involve wiping your phone's internal storage or personal data. However, it's always a good practice to back up your important data before making any significant system changes to your device, just in case.
Can I have both a physical SIM and an eSIM active at the same time on my Samsung phone?
Yes, most eSIM-compatible Samsung Galaxy devices support Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) functionality. This means you can have both your physical SIM card and your eSIM active and registered on the network simultaneously. You can usually choose which SIM to use for calls, messages, and mobile data in your phone's settings.
How many eSIM profiles can I store on my Samsung Galaxy device?
The number of eSIM profiles you can store can vary depending on your specific Samsung Galaxy model. Typically, you can store multiple eSIM profiles (for example, for different countries or carriers). On most Galaxy phones only one eSIM can be active at a time, alongside a physical SIM; some newer models support two active eSIMs, depending on model, region and software. You can switch between stored profiles in SIM manager.
What happens to my eSIM if I reset my Samsung phone to factory settings?
A factory reset can erase the eSIM profiles on your phone, so check with your provider before resetting. If you plan to continue using the same eSIM after the reset, you will likely need to reinstall it by scanning the QR code or entering the activation details provided by your carrier again. Some carriers might offer a way to reactivate the eSIM without a new QR code, so it's worth checking with them.
Can I transfer my eSIM to another Samsung phone?
Yes, if your carrier supports Samsung's eSIM Instant Transfer. On the new Galaxy go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM > Transfer SIM from Galaxy/Android phone (or from iPhone), then confirm on the old phone. Samsung lists the carriers that allow it, and the new phone must be unlocked. Travel eSIMs usually can't be transferred; buy a new plan for the new phone. The exact steps can vary depending on your mobile carrier. Some carriers might require you to request a new QR code or activation details for the new phone. It's best to contact your carrier for specific instructions on transferring your eSIM.
Do all mobile carriers support eSIM on Samsung devices?
No, not all mobile carriers currently support eSIM technology. The availability of eSIM services depends on the carrier and the country. You'll need to check with your desired mobile carrier to confirm if they offer eSIM plans and support Samsung Galaxy devices.
Is there a cost to install or use an eSIM?
The cost associated with eSIMs can vary. Some carriers might charge a small fee for the initial eSIM activation or for generating a new QR code. The cost of the mobile plan itself is usually the same whether you're using a physical SIM or an eSIM. It's best to check with your carrier about any potential fees.
Read more:
How to Check if My Phone Is eSIM Compatible: Step by Step
eSIM for Samsung: How It Works and How to Activate It
eSIM in Apple Watch: Everything You Need to Know and How to Set It Up
