Samsung Galaxy phones use the SIM Manager interface for eSIM activation, which differs from the stock Android menu. Every Galaxy S21 through S26 model supports eSIM, along with Galaxy Z Flip 3 through Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 3 through Z Fold 6. The A-series (A35, A55, A56) supports eSIM in select markets.
This guide covers the complete activation flow including the Samsung-specific steps that other Android guides miss.
Step-by-step instructions
- 1
Open SIM Manager on your Samsung device
Navigate to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. On One UI 6 and later, you may also find it under Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. Tap 'Add eSIM' to start the process.
If you do not see this option, your Galaxy model may not support eSIM in your region, or the phone may be carrier-locked. Carrier-locked Samsung devices sometimes hide the eSIM menu entirely until the device is unlocked.
Tip: On Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold devices, the path is identical. The foldable form factor does not change the SIM Manager location.
- 2
Scan the QR code
Tap 'Scan QR code' and point the camera at your provider's QR code. Samsung downloads the carrier profile in 20 to 40 seconds. A confirmation screen shows the carrier name and plan type.
Tap 'Confirm' to install the profile onto your device's eUICC. Samsung may ask you to restart the phone after installation. If prompted, restart before proceeding to the next step.
Tip: If the QR code does not scan, tap 'Enter activation code' and manually input the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your provider's confirmation email.
- 3
Configure data and call preferences
After installation, SIM Manager displays both your physical SIM and the new eSIM. Tap 'Mobile data' and select the eSIM if you want it as your primary data line. For travel eSIMs, set the eSIM for data while keeping your physical SIM for calls and texts.
Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > select the eSIM > and enable 'Data roaming.' Most travel eSIM providers route data through roaming agreements, so leaving this toggle off blocks your connection.
Tip: Samsung One UI labels the data roaming toggle differently across versions. On One UI 5, it may read 'International data roaming' instead of 'Data roaming.'
- 4
Verify the connection is working
Check the status bar for signal bars on your eSIM line. Open Chrome and load any webpage with Wi-Fi turned off to confirm cellular data flows through the eSIM. If you see 'Emergency calls only,' go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network operators > Search now and manually select a carrier.
Some Samsung devices also need the eSIM toggled off and back on in SIM Manager after the first activation.
Frequently asked questions
Which Samsung phones support eSIM?
Samsung Galaxy S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, S26, Z Flip 3 through Z Flip 6, Z Fold 3 through Z Fold 6, and select A-series models (A35, A55, A56 in certain markets) all support eSIM. The Galaxy S20 FE and earlier models do not include eSIM hardware. Carrier-locked versions may have the feature disabled.
Does Samsung need a restart after eSIM installation?
Samsung devices sometimes require a restart before the new eSIM profile appears as active in SIM Manager. If the profile downloads successfully but does not show signal bars or a carrier name, restart your phone. This is a known One UI behavior, not a sign of a failed installation.
Can I use two eSIMs on Samsung at the same time?
Samsung Galaxy S23 and later models support Dual SIM Dual Standby with two eSIMs active at the same time, or one eSIM plus one physical SIM. Earlier models like the S21 and S22 only support one eSIM plus one physical SIM. Check SIM Manager to see how many active slots your device offers.
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