Samsung has embraced eSIM technology across its flagship lineup, but the setup process differs from iPhone and can vary between Samsung models and One UI versions. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions for installing an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy phones, covering the Galaxy S20 through S25 series, Z Fold and Z Flip series, and select Galaxy A models.
First, verify your Samsung device supports eSIM. Compatible models include the Galaxy S20 and later (S21, S22, S23, S24, S25 series), Galaxy Z Fold2 and later, Galaxy Z Flip and later, and Galaxy Note 20 and later. Important caveat: eSIM support depends on both the model and the region where the phone was sold. Some carrier-specific variants have eSIM disabled. To check, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. If you see an option for 'Add eSIM,' your device supports it. If this option is missing, your specific variant may not have eSIM enabled.
Step 1: Purchase your eSIM plan from Hypr eSIM and have the QR code ready on a separate screen. Step 2: On your Samsung phone, open Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. Step 3: Tap 'Add eSIM.' On newer One UI versions (5.0+), you may see 'Add Mobile Plan' instead. Step 4: Select 'Scan QR code from service provider.' Your phone will open the camera. Step 5: Scan the QR code. Your Samsung will download the eSIM profile — this requires an active Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.
Step 6: Once downloaded, you'll see a confirmation screen. Tap 'Add' or 'Confirm' to install the profile. Step 7: Your phone will ask if you want to enable the new plan immediately or later. For travel eSIMs, you can enable it now and configure it to be used only for data. Step 8: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager and set your new eSIM as the line for 'Mobile Data.' Keep your primary SIM set for calls and texts.
The crucial Samsung-specific step: enable Data Roaming for your eSIM line. Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks. If you have multiple SIMs, tap on your eSIM profile first, then toggle on 'Data Roaming.' On some One UI versions, this is under Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > tap the eSIM > Data Roaming. This setting must be on for your eSIM to connect to foreign networks — without it, you'll see signal bars but get no data.
Samsung phones running One UI 5.0 and later also support eSIM transfer between Samsung devices using Samsung Smart Switch. However, for travel eSIMs, it's simpler to install fresh using the QR code on each device. If you need to delete an old eSIM profile to make room for a new one, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > tap the eSIM profile > Remove. Note that removing an eSIM profile is permanent — you'll need a new QR code to reinstall it.
Final tips for Samsung eSIM users: Samsung's power-saving modes can sometimes disable the secondary SIM to conserve battery. If your eSIM stops working unexpectedly, check that your battery saver isn't interfering. Also, after major One UI updates, it's worth verifying your SIM Manager settings haven't been reset. And as always, install your Hypr eSIM plan before you travel so you can troubleshoot comfortably from home rather than at a foreign airport.