esim

How to Set Up eSIM on Android: A Quick Guide for Travelers

Roaming shock, hunting for a SIM kiosk at the airport, or landing with no internet are all problems you can skip now. If you’re wondering how to set up eSIM on Android, the good news is: once you’ve done it once, it becomes a 5-minute pre-flight ritual. This guide walks you through everything from checking if your Android phone actually supports eSIM, to installing it via QR code or manual input, to using it as your travel data line and fixing the most common “it’s not working” issues. The focus is Android, travel, and data-first eSIMs, so you can switch on your phone after landing and be online in under a minute.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)

Roaming shock, hunting for a SIM kiosk at the airport, or landing with no internet are all problems you can skip now. If you’re wondering how to set up eSIM on Android, the good news is: once you’ve done it once, it becomes a 5-minute pre-flight ritual. This guide walks you through everything from checking if your Android phone actually supports eSIM, to installing it via QR code or manual input, to using it as your travel data line and fixing the most common “it’s not working” issues. The focus is Android, travel, and data-first eSIMs, so you can switch on your phone after landing and be online in under a minute.

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Quick Setup Overview (What You'll Do)

Total Time: 5-10 minutes
You'll Need:

  • eSIM-compatible Android (check with *#06# for EID)
  • Wi-Fi connection (home or airport)
  • eSIM QR code or activation details (from email)

Steps:

  1. Check compatibility (2 minutes)
  2. Buy an eSIM plan online (3 minutes with BitJoy)
  3. Scan QR code in Settings (2 minutes)
  4. Set eSIM as data SIM (1 minute)
  5. Turn on data roaming for eSIM only

Pro Tip: Do this at home on Wi-Fi the night before your flight. Your eSIM can sit inactive until you land—then flip data over in 30 seconds.

Quick Check: Does Your Android Phone Support eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM, a digital SIM built into your phone) lets you add a mobile plan without inserting a plastic card. Before you buy any travel eSIM, you need to know if your Android can actually use it.

1. Check via Settings

This is the simplest way:

  1. Open Settings on your Android.

  2. Go to Network & internet, Connections, or Mobile network (the exact name depends on your phone brand).

  3. Look for:

    • SIMs, SIM card manager, or SIM cards & mobile networks.

  4. Inside that menu, check if you see an option like:

    • Add eSIM

    • Add mobile plan

    • Download a SIM instead

If you see an option to add an eSIM or mobile plan, your phone is very likely eSIM-compatible.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)


2. Check for an EID Using *#06#

The EID (Embedded Identity Document) is basically the ID number for your eSIM chip.

  1. Open the Phone app (where you make calls).

  2. Dial *#06#.

  3. A screen with device identifiers appears.

If you see a line called EID, your phone has eSIM hardware built in. If there’s no EID and no option to add an eSIM in Settings, the device probably doesn’t support eSIM.

3. Check Official Lists

If you’re still not sure:

Visit your phone manufacturer's official support page (Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, etc.) and search for your exact model plus "eSIM".

Some eSIM providers also list supported Android models on their websites. BitJoy has a [compatibility checker tool →] that verifies 200+ Android models.

Important Regional Exceptions (2026):

Even if your phone model "supports eSIM," it may be disabled in certain regions:

  • Mainland China: Most Android phones sold in China have eSIM disabled (government regulations). This includes Samsung, Google Pixel, Xiaomi, and OnePlus models.
  • Hong Kong/Macau: Some models have eSIM disabled (check with manufacturer).
  • Carrier-locked phones: Devices sold by Verizon, AT&T, or other carriers may have eSIM locked until you pay off the phone.

Example: Google Pixel 6 bought in the USA = eSIM works Google Pixel 6 bought in China = eSIM disabled

How to verify: Go to Settings > About Phone > Status. If you see "EID" listed, eSIM is enabled on your specific device. No EID = eSIM disabled.

This cross-check is especially useful for carrier-branded phones (devices sold by specific operators) because some models have eSIM disabled.

Signs Your Phone Is Not eSIM-Compatible

If you notice any of these, your Android likely doesn’t support eSIM:

  • You don’t see any “Add eSIM” or “Add mobile plan” option in SIM settings.

  • Dialing *#06# shows no EID line.

  • It’s an older or very budget Android model.

  • It’s a carrier-locked phone that doesn’t mention eSIM in its specs.

In that case, your options are:

  • Use a physical SIM at your destination.

  • Or use another device (tablet, secondary phone, or hotspot) that supports eSIM.

What You Need Before Setting Up eSIM on Android

Before you tap anything in Settings, set yourself up for a smooth install. I usually do this the night before a trip while packing, with my phone on Wi‑Fi.

Preflight Checklist

  • 1. An eSIM-compatible Android phone
    You’ve already confirmed this in the previous section: Add eSIM in Settings and/or an EID via *#06#.

  • 2. A stable Wi‑Fi connection
    Installing an eSIM profile requires internet. Use:

    • Home Wi‑Fi before leaving.

    • Hotel or airport Wi‑Fi after you land.
      Avoid doing the initial download over expensive roaming data.

  • 3. Enough battery
    Make sure your phone is at 30% battery or higher. You don’t want it dying mid-download.

  • 4. eSIM details from your provider
    Normally this comes via email or app and includes:

    • A QR code you can scan, and/or

    • A SM-DP+ address and activation code.
      The SM-DP+ address (the server address your phone contacts to download the eSIM profile) and the activation code are what you type in if you can’t scan the QR.

  • 5. An active or ready-to-activate eSIM plan
    Many travel eSIMs (data-only plans for travel) start counting days:

    • From the moment you activate the eSIM, or

    • From the first time it connects in the destination country.
      Your provider will specify this—check the email or app.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)


Before You Fly vs After You Land

How you time the setup depends on your provider’s rules and your preference.

  • Before you fly (recommended when allowed):

    • On home Wi‑Fi, install the eSIM profile on your Android.

    • Keep your home SIM as the active data SIM until you travel.

    • The eSIM just sits there, ready to be switched on at the destination.
      This is what I usually do: install at home, flip data over after landing.

  • After you land (if your provider asks you to wait):

    • Turn off airplane mode.

    • Go to SIM settings and enable the eSIM.

    • Set the eSIM as your data SIM.

    • Turn data roaming ON for the eSIM.

    • Test by loading a simple webpage or Google Maps.

Always follow your provider’s instructions on when to activate. Some explicitly say “do not activate until you’re in the destination country.”

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)

 


General Step-by-Step: How to Set Up an eSIM on Android (Any Brand)

Regardless of the brand, the flow for how to set up eSIM on Android is almost always the same: go into network settings, add an eSIM, scan the QR, confirm.

Quick 9-Step QR Setup Guide

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Go to Network & internet, Connections, or Mobile network.

  3. Tap SIMs, SIM card manager, or SIM cards & mobile networks.

  4. Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan.

  5. Choose Scan QR code.

  6. Scan the eSIM QR from your provider (on another device or printed).

  7. Confirm to download and install the eSIM profile.

  8. Give it a clear name (for example, “Japan eSIM” or “EU Travel Data”).

  9. Decide later which SIM you’ll use for data, calls, and texts.

Once the eSIM is installed, it appears like another SIM line in your SIM manager. Many travel eSIMs are data-only, which means:

  • You get mobile data.

  • You don’t get a local phone number for standard calls or SMS.

  • Apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and other internet-based services still work fine.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)


Manual eSIM Setup on Android (Without QR Code)

If your camera won’t scan the QR code, or you only received a SM-DP+ address and activation code from your provider, you can install the eSIM manually. The steps are similar across Android brands.

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Go to Network & internet, Connections, or Mobile network.

  3. Tap SIMs, SIM card manager, or SIM cards & mobile networks.

  4. Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan.

  5. Choose Enter details manually, Use activation code, or similar.

  6. Enter the SM-DP+ address exactly as shown in your email/app.

  7. Enter the activation code (and any confirmation code, if provided).

  8. Confirm and wait while your phone downloads the eSIM profile.

  9. When done, your new eSIM will appear in the SIM list.

Be very careful with spelling and spacing in the SM-DP+ address and activation codes. This method does exactly what the QR does; you’re just typing instead of scanning.

Ready to Get Your Android eSIM?

Now that you know how to install an eSIM on Android (QR code or manual method), it's time to choose your plan.

Why 500,000+ Android users choose BitJoy:

  • $2.50/GB starting price (lowest among major providers)
  • 2-minute activation on Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi, and 200+ models
  • 5-day money-back guarantee (valid through Dec 31, 2025)
  • Crypto payment accepted (BTC, ETH, USDT)

Popular Android Plans:

  • USA: 5GB/7 days - $12.50
  • Europe (35 countries): 5GB/15 days - $15
  • Asia Pacific: 3GB/7 days - $9
  • Global: 5GB/30 days - $18

Do You Need Wi‑Fi or Mobile Data to Install?

Your phone needs an internet connection to download the eSIM profile:

  • Best option: Wi‑Fi (home, hotel, airport).

  • Alternative: Data from your existing SIM (if you have a cheap or included roaming plan).

Why Wi‑Fi is better:

  • Avoids interruptions in the download.

  • Avoids surprise roaming charges on your home SIM if you’re already abroad.

If you’re in an airport lounge, it’s a perfect time to hop on Wi‑Fi, add the eSIM, and confirm everything works before you leave the building.

Brand-Specific eSIM Setup on Android: Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi & Others

Menu names change a bit between brands and Android versions, but the logic is the same: go into SIM settings, add an eSIM, scan or enter the activation details.

Names below are typical for recent software versions; your exact wording may vary slightly.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)


How to Set Up eSIM on Samsung Galaxy Phones

On Samsung Galaxy devices (recent models with One UI), the path usually looks like this:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Tap Connections.

  3. Tap SIM manager (or SIM card manager on some models).

  4. Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan.

  5. Choose:

    • Scan QR code, or

    • Enter activation code (for manual setup).

  6. Scan the QR from your provider, or type in the SM-DP+ address and activation code.

  7. Confirm the download and installation.

  8. After install, still in SIM manager, you can:

    • Rename the eSIM (e.g., “US Trip eSIM”).

    • Choose which SIM is used for calls, texts, and mobile data.

On older or slightly different One UI versions, the menu names might be “Mobile plans” instead of “SIM manager,” but you’re always looking for the area that lists your SIM cards.

How to Set Up eSIM on Google Pixel Phones

On a Google Pixel, the wording is a bit different but straightforward:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Tap Network & internet.

  3. Tap SIMs (or Mobile network, then + Add SIM).

  4. Tap + Add SIM.

  5. When prompted, choose Download a SIM instead.

  6. Scan the QR code from your provider or tap Need help? → Enter it manually to enter SM-DP+ and activation code.

  7. Follow the on-screen prompts to download and activate the eSIM.

  8. Once installed, you can rename it and set it as your data SIM in the SIMs menu.

The key phrase to look for on Pixel is “Download a SIM instead”, which is Google’s way of saying “add an eSIM.”

How to Set Up eSIM on Xiaomi Phones

On Xiaomi devices with recent MIUI or HyperOS versions that support eSIM:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Tap SIM cards & mobile networks.

  3. Look for an eSIM or eSIM management section.

  4. Tap Add eSIM.

  5. Choose:

    • Scan QR code, or

    • Add manually / Use activation code.

  6. Scan the QR, or enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided by your eSIM provider.

  7. Confirm and wait for the eSIM profile to download and install.

  8. Back in SIM cards & mobile networks, you can:

    • Set which SIM uses mobile data.

    • Keep calls on your main SIM if you like.

Naming and exact menu labels can vary by region and MIUI/HyperOS version, but the eSIM option will always live under SIM or mobile network settings.

Other Android Brands (OnePlus, Oppo, Motorola, etc.)

On brands like OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Motorola, and others, the steps are similar:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Go to Wi‑Fi & network, SIM & network, Connections, or Mobile network.

  3. Look for SIMs, SIM cards, or eSIM options.

  4. Tap Add eSIM, Add mobile plan, or similar.

  5. Scan the QR code or choose a manual activation option.

  6. Complete the installation and then set which SIM uses data.

If you get lost, remember: you’re always heading for the menu that lists your SIM cards or mobile networks, then the option to add a new plan.

How to Use Your New eSIM: Data, Roaming, and Dual SIM Setup

Once your eSIM is installed, you still need to tell your Android how to use it. This is where dual SIM and data roaming come in, especially for travel.

Dual SIM Basics on Android

With an eSIM, your Android can use:

  • One physical SIM + one eSIM, or

  • Sometimes two eSIMs, depending on the model.

You can then choose:

  • Which SIM handles calls.

  • Which SIM handles SMS.

  • Which SIM handles mobile data.

This is perfect for travel. On my trips, I usually:

  • Keep my home SIM for calls/SMS and banking OTPs.

  • Use the eSIM purely for data to avoid roaming fees.

Set Your eSIM as the Data SIM on Android

To use your travel eSIM for data:

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Go to Network & internet / Connections / SIMs (depending on your phone).

  3. Open SIM manager, SIMs, or SIM cards & mobile networks.

  4. Look for Preferred SIM for data, Mobile data, or Data SIM.

  5. Select your eSIM as the data SIM.

  6. Make sure mobile data is turned ON.

You can keep calls and SMS on your home SIM if you like, while your eSIM handles all the data.

Turn On Data Roaming for the eSIM

Data roaming (allowing the SIM to use data outside its home country) must be turned on for most travel eSIMs to work.

  1. In SIM settings, tap your eSIM.

  2. Find Data roaming (it may be inside Mobile network settings).

  3. Turn Data roaming ON for the eSIM.

Important safety tip:

  • Make sure data roaming is OFF on your home SIM, unless you intentionally want to use expensive roaming. This avoids surprise bills.

Realistic Travel Setups

Here are two common ways travelers use eSIM on Android:

  • Setup A – Keep home number, use eSIM for data:

    • SIM 1 (physical): Home country number – calls + SMS, data roaming OFF.

    • eSIM: Travel data plan – data SIM, data roaming ON.

    • Result: You still receive SMS/OTP on your home number but use cheap local/roaming data.

  • Setup B – eSIM only for everything:

    • Turn off or remove the physical SIM.

    • eSIM: Local plan with voice + data (if your eSIM includes a number).

    • Result: You behave like a local user with a local number for calls and data.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)


Testing Your eSIM Connection After Landing

Once your plane lands and you’re ready to use your travel eSIM:

  1. Turn airplane mode OFF.

  2. Open Settings → SIM manager / SIMs and make sure the eSIM line is enabled.

  3. Confirm the eSIM is set as your data SIM.

  4. Turn data roaming ON for the eSIM.

  5. Wait 1–2 minutes for the network to register.

  6. Test the connection:

    • Open a simple website (like a lightweight news site).

    • Open Google Maps and check if the map tiles load.

If it doesn’t work yet, move on to the troubleshooting section below.

BitJoy Android Setup: What Makes It Easier

If you purchased from BitJoy, here's what makes the process even smoother on Android:

Instant Email Delivery (2-5 Minutes)

After payment, you'll receive an email with:

  • Your eSIM QR code (as image attachment)
  • A direct "Tap to Install" link (for Android 12+, opens Settings automatically)
  • SM-DP+ address and activation code (for manual setup)
  • Plan details (data allowance, validity, covered countries)

One-Tap Install (Android 12 and Newer)

No QR scanning needed on newer Android versions:

  1. Open the BitJoy email on your Android phone
  2. Tap "Install eSIM" button
  3. Your phone automatically opens Settings > Network & Internet
  4. Confirm installation
  5. Done! eSIM is ready to activate when you land.

This is faster than scanning a QR code and eliminates camera/lighting issues.

Real-Time Data Tracking

BitJoy sends you:

  • Welcome SMS when eSIM first connects
  • Daily data usage notifications
  • 80% data warning (before you run out)
  • Access to BitJoy app for real-time balance

No more guessing how much data you have left.

24/7 Support (In 20+ Languages)

Stuck at the airport? BitJoy support is available around the clock:

  • Live Chat: thebitjoy.com (bottom right corner, 1-2 min response)
  • Email: support@thebitjoy.com (average 2-hour response time)
  • AI Assistant: Troubleshoot eSIM issues in 20+ languages

Common Android issues BitJoy support can fix in under 5 minutes:

  • QR code won't scan → Send manual SM-DP+ address
  • "No service" after install → Guide you through APN settings
  • Data not working → Verify roaming settings and network selection
  • Phone shows eSIM but no data → Check carrier lock status

Easy Top-Up (No New QR Code)

Running low on data mid-trip? With BitJoy:

  1. Open the BitJoy app or website
  2. Select "Top Up"
  3. Your existing eSIM gets more data—no need to install a new eSIM profile

(Note: Not all providers support top-ups. Some require you to install a brand new eSIM, which wastes a device eSIM slot.)

Troubleshooting: Common eSIM Issues on Android

If you’re at an airport or in a taxi and your eSIM isn’t working, stress levels can spike fast. Before you panic or assume something is broken, run through these quick checks.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

  1. Confirm your eSIM plan is active and supports the country you’re currently in.

  2. Make sure the eSIM line is turned ON in your SIM manager.

  3. Set the eSIM as your data SIM.

  4. Turn data roaming ON for the eSIM.

  5. Toggle airplane mode ON, then OFF again.

  6. Restart your phone if it still doesn’t connect.

If it’s still not working after this, use the more specific checks below.

BitJoy Users: Fast-Track Support

If you purchased from BitJoy and troubleshooting doesn't fix the issue:

Contact BitJoy Support (2-hour response guaranteed):

  • Live chat: thebitjoy.com
  • Email: support@thebitjoy.com

What BitJoy support can do:

  • Send manual activation codes if QR won't scan
  • Verify your eSIM is activated on their end
  • Guide you through APN settings for your specific Android model
  • Process refund if issue can't be resolved (5-day guarantee)

Other providers:

  • Airalo: Email support, 24-48 hour response time
  • Holafly: Live chat available, 1-4 hour response
  • Nomad: Email support, response time varies

QR Code Won’t Scan

If your Android camera refuses to read the eSIM QR:

  • Turn up the brightness of the screen showing the QR (laptop, second phone, or printout).

  • Clean your camera lens.

  • Hold the phone steady and adjust the distance slightly until the QR is fully in frame.

  • Try rotating between portrait and landscape.

  • If it still fails:

    • Use the provider email/app to switch to manual setup.

    • Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code by hand.

Most providers offer both QR and manual activation specifically for this reason.

eSIM Shows “No Service” or “Emergency Calls Only”

If you see signal bars but a “No service” or “Emergency calls only” status for the eSIM:

  1. Confirm your eSIM plan includes the current country. Some regional eSIMs don’t cover every country.

  2. Open SIM manager / SIMs and ensure the eSIM is enabled.

  3. Check that the eSIM is allowed to use data (even if it’s not the default line for calls).

  4. Make sure data roaming is ON for the eSIM.

  5. Toggle airplane mode ON → OFF.

  6. Try manual network selection:

    • Go to Settings → Mobile network → Network operators (wording varies).

    • Select Search networks.

    • Manually choose the network named in your eSIM provider’s instructions, if they specify one.

  7. If you still have no service:

    • Take screenshots of your SIM settings and error message.

    • Contact your eSIM provider’s support (via chat or email) and share those screenshots.

Many issues at this point are either coverage-related or a plan activation problem on the provider side.

Data Not Working but You See Signal Bars

If your phone shows signal bars and network name, but no data (webpages don’t load):

  1. Confirm the eSIM is selected as the data SIM.

  2. Check that mobile data is ON.

  3. Ensure data roaming is ON specifically for the eSIM.

  4. Check your data allowance in the provider’s app or email (you may have run out of data).

  5. Check or set APN settings:

    • Go to Settings → Mobile network → Access Point Names (APN).

    • Make sure there is an APN profile for your eSIM line.

    • If none exists, add a new APN using the details given by your eSIM provider.

  6. After editing or adding an APN, restart your phone.

The APN (Access Point Name) is basically the “gateway” your phone uses to reach the internet via the mobile network. Without the right APN, you can have signal but no usable data.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)


Can You Remove or Turn Off an eSIM Later?

You absolutely can, and it won’t harm your phone.

  • Disable / Turn off an eSIM:

    • In SIM manager / SIMs, toggle the eSIM OFF.

    • This pauses that line temporarily (helpful when you’re back home).

  • Delete / Remove an eSIM profile:

    • In the eSIM settings, choose Remove or Delete eSIM.

    • This permanently removes the eSIM profile from your phone.


How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)

Choosing the Right eSIM Provider for Your Android

Before diving into the technical setup, let's quickly compare your options. While this guide works with any provider, we'll use BitJoy as an example because it's optimized for travelers.

Quick Provider Comparison (2026 Pricing)

Feature BitJoy Airalo Holafly Nomad
Starting Price $2.50/GB $4.50/GB $9.90 (unlimited) $1.44/GB (regional)
Coverage 190+ countries 200+ countries 113 countries 170+ countries
Android App Rating 4.8/5 4.6/5 4.7/5 4.7/5
Activation Time 2-5 minutes 2-10 minutes Instant 5-15 minutes
Refund Policy 5 days* 7 days None 14 days
Payment Methods Card + Crypto Card only Card only Card only
AI Plan Recommendations Yes No No No
24/7 Support Yes Yes Yes Yes
Best For Budget travelers, crypto users, first-timers Light data users Heavy streamers Long-term nomads

*BitJoy's 5-day money-back guarantee. Act before year-end to qualify.

Why BitJoy Works Well for Android Users

Best Price for Budget Travelers
At $2.50/GB starting price, BitJoy beats major competitors. Example: For a 7-day trip using 5GB data, BitJoy costs ~$12.50 vs Airalo $22.50 (save 44%).

AI-Powered Plan Selection
Not sure if you need 3GB or 10GB? BitJoy's recommendation engine analyzes your trip duration and usage patterns to suggest the right plan—so you don't overpay or run out mid-trip.

Crypto-Friendly Payment
For travelers who prefer cryptocurrency, BitJoy accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT—a feature most competitors don't offer. Payment confirms within 2-5 minutes, and you get your eSIM instantly.

First-Timer Protection
New to eSIM? BitJoy's 5-day money-back guarantee (valid through December 31, 2025) lets you test the service risk-free. If it doesn't work on your Android or you change your mind, full refund—no questions asked.

One-Tap Install for Android 12+
BitJoy sends both a QR code AND a direct install link. On Android 12 or newer, just tap the link in your email—no QR scanning needed. Your phone opens Settings automatically and installs the eSIM in seconds.

24/7 Support When You Need It
Stuck at 2 AM at the airport? BitJoy offers round-the-clock support via:

  • Live chat (thebitjoy.com)
  • WhatsApp
  • Email (support@thebitjoy.com, 2-hour response time)

How BitJoy Compares on Price

Real-World Example: 1-Week Europe Trip

Assuming 5GB data usage over 7 days:

  • BitJoy: $12.50 (5GB × $2.50)
  • Airalo: $22.50 (5GB at $4.50/GB)
  • Holafly: $29.90 (7-day unlimited plan)
  • Nomad: $15 (regional plan, 10GB for 30 days)

Verdict: BitJoy offers the best value for short-to-medium trips (1-2 weeks). Holafly is better if you stream video all day. Nomad wins for month-long stays.

Limited Time: 5-Day Refund Guarantee Ends December 31, 2025

If you're reading this in late 2025, act fast. BitJoy's 5-day money-back guarantee is valid for purchases made through December 31, 2025. After year-end, refund policies may change.

How it works:

  1. Buy any BitJoy eSIM plan
  2. Try it for 5 days
  3. If you're not satisfied for ANY reason, email support@thebitjoy.com
  4. Get 100% refund, no questions asked

This makes BitJoy the safest choice for first-time eSIM users on Android.

Note: The setup steps below work with any eSIM provider (BitJoy, Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, etc.). We'll use BitJoy in our examples, but the process is nearly identical across all providers.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android (Without Stress Before You Fly)


Turn Your Android Into a Travel-Ready Device

Now you know how to set up eSIM on Android from start to finish: checking compatibility, preparing your eSIM details, installing via QR or manual activation, configuring dual SIM for travel, and handling the most common connection issues. Once you’ve done it once, it becomes part of your standard pre-trip checklist.

Quick recap:

  • Check if your Android supports eSIM via Settings and EID.

  • Install the eSIM on Wi‑Fi using a QR code or manual SM-DP+ + activation code.

  • Set the eSIM as your data SIM and turn data roaming ON for that line.

  • Protect your home SIM by turning its data roaming OFF.

  • Run basic troubleshooting (SIM enabled, data on, APN set) if things don’t work right away.

If you're planning a trip soon, take 10 minutes on Wi‑Fi to install and test your travel eSIM before you fly.

Get Your Android eSIM Now (5-Day Refund Guarantee)

Ready to travel stress-free? BitJoy offers Android-friendly eSIM plans in 190+ countries with:

  • $2.50/GB starting price (lowest among major providers)
  • 2-5 minute activation on Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi, OnePlus, and 200+ models
  • One-tap install for Android 12+ (no QR scanning needed)
  • Crypto payment accepted (BTC, ETH, USDT)
  • 5-day money-back guarantee (valid through December 31, 2025)
  • 24/7 support via live chat, WhatsApp, and email

Limited Time: 5-day refund guarantee ends December 31, 2025. Purchase before year-end to qualify for worry-free testing.

Still have questions? Chat with BitJoy support team (live chat available 24/7) or check out our  Tutorial.

About BitJoy: Trusted by over 500,000 international travelers since 2023. Based in Dubai, BitJoy specializes in instant-activation eSIM plans for 190+ countries, with a focus on Android compatibility, crypto payments, and first-time user support.

FAQs

Does my Android phone support eSIM?

To check if your Android phone supports eSIM, go to Settings > Network & internet (or Connections) > SIMs (or SIM manager/Mobile network). If you see an option to "Add eSIM," "Add mobile plan," or similar, your phone is likely compatible. You can also dial *#06# in your phone app; if an EID appears, it has eSIM hardware.

What do I need before setting up an eSIM on Android?

Before setting up an eSIM on Android, ensure your phone is compatible and has a stable Wi-Fi connection. You'll also need at least 30% battery, your eSIM provider's details (QR code or activation codes: SM-DP+ address and activation code), and confirmation that your travel eSIM data plan is active.

How do I install an eSIM on my Android phone?

To install an eSIM on Android, open Settings, go to Network & internet > SIMs. Tap "Add eSIM" or "Add mobile plan," then choose "Scan QR code" and scan your provider's code, or select "Enter details manually" to input the SM-DP+ address and activation code. Follow the on-screen prompts to download and confirm the eSIM profile.

How do I set up an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy phone?

On Samsung Galaxy phones, go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. Tap "Add mobile plan" or "Add eSIM." Choose to scan a QR code or enter the activation details manually provided by your carrier. After installation, you can rename the eSIM and set its preferences for calls, texts, and data within the SIM manager.

How do I set up an eSIM on a Google Pixel phone?

For Google Pixel phones, navigate to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. Tap "+ Add SIM" and then select "Download a SIM instead." Scan the QR code provided by your carrier or choose "Enter details manually." Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the eSIM profile download and activation process.

How do I set my eSIM as the data SIM on Android?

To set your eSIM as the data SIM on Android, open Settings, go to Network & internet > SIMs (or SIM manager). Find the option for "Preferred SIM for data" or similar and select your newly installed eSIM. This ensures your internet traffic uses the eSIM while your primary SIM handles calls and texts.

How do I turn on data roaming for my eSIM on Android?

To turn on data roaming for your eSIM on Android, go to your eSIM's settings within the SIM manager. Find the "Data roaming" toggle and switch it ON. It's crucial to ensure data roaming is turned OFF on your primary (home) SIM to avoid incurring expensive roaming charges from your regular provider.

My eSIM shows "No Service" or "Emergency Calls Only" on Android, what should I do?

If your eSIM shows "No Service" on Android, first confirm your travel destination is supported by your plan. Ensure the eSIM is enabled in SIM manager, set as the data SIM, and data roaming is turned ON for the eSIM. Toggle Airplane mode on and off, or restart your phone. If issues persist, try manual network selection or contact your provider.

Why is my eSIM data not working on Android?

If your eSIM data isn't working on Android despite signal bars, verify that the eSIM is selected as your data SIM, mobile data is ON, and data roaming is enabled for the eSIM. Check your data allowance with your provider. If the problem continues, you may need to check or update the APN (Access Point Name) settings for your eSIM in your phone's mobile network settings.

 

Read more:

Top 10 Travel Destinations with the Best Mobile Networks (2025 Edition)

Why You Should Use an eSIM for Stress-Free Global Traveld

 

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