How to Install an eSIM on Android, Step by Step

LSThe LimitSim team

Setting up an eSIM on an Android phone only takes a few minutes. You open your phone's Settings, go to the SIM management menu, add a new eSIM, and scan the QR code that LimitSim sends you.

Because the menus on Android devices differ from one manufacturer to another, this guide starts with the general setup process and then walks through the specific steps for Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones.

Once you buy a LimitSim eSIM plan, the QR code and setup instructions are sent to your email. You can install the eSIM before you travel and then activate it once you arrive in your destination country.

Check that your phone supports eSIM

Not every Android phone supports eSIM technology, so it's a good idea to make sure your device is compatible before you buy a plan.

To check:

  • In Settings, search for the word "eSIM" or "SIM";
  • See whether there's an option to Add eSIM or Add digital SIM.

In general, the following devices support eSIM:

  • Samsung Galaxy S series
  • Samsung Galaxy Note series
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models
  • Google Pixel 3 and later models
  • Many newer flagship models from Motorola, Oppo and other brands

Another option is to dial the code *#06#.

If an EID number appears alongside the IMEI, your phone supports eSIM.

Before you start the setup

Have the following ready:

  • a stable Wi-Fi connection;
  • the QR code sent to you by LimitSim;
  • a second device to display the QR code (a laptop, tablet or another phone).

It's also important that your phone is carrier-unlocked. On devices that are locked to a carrier, it may not be possible to add third-party eSIM profiles.

Installing an eSIM on most Android phones

Even though the menu names vary depending on the phone model, the setup process is almost the same across nearly all Android devices.

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Network & internet, Connections or a similar section.
  3. Choose SIM cards, SIM manager or Mobile network.
  4. Tap Add eSIM or Add SIM.
  5. If the phone offers a physical SIM card, choose Download eSIM, Download a SIM instead or Don't have a SIM card?.
  6. Select Scan QR code and point the camera at your LimitSim QR code.
  7. Once the phone has downloaded the eSIM profile, confirm the setup.

If you can't use the QR code, you can choose Enter details manually and type in the SM-DP+ address and the activation code that were sent to you.

After setup is complete, you can give the eSIM a name and decide which line is used for calls, SMS and mobile data.

Most users keep their main SIM card for calls and use the eSIM only for mobile data.

Installing an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy phones

On Samsung phones, the eSIM settings are located in the Connections section.

Follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Connections.
  3. Go to SIM Manager.
  4. Choose Add eSIM.
  5. Open Scan QR code from service provider.
  6. Scan your LimitSim QR code.
  7. Confirm the setup.

If you don't have a QR code, you can enter the details manually using the Enter activation code option.

If you don't see SIM Manager on your device, it's a good idea to update your phone's software (One UI).

If you need it, you can find the EID number here:

Settings → About phone → Status information

Installing an eSIM on Google Pixel phones

On Google Pixel phones, you install an eSIM like this:

  1. Open the Settings app.
  2. Go to Network & Internet.
  3. Select SIMs.
  4. Choose Add SIM.
  5. If needed, open Download a SIM instead.
  6. Scan your LimitSim QR code.
  7. Finish the setup with the Download or Set up eSIM button.

If you can't use the QR code, you can enter the activation code manually under Need Help? → Enter it manually.

After setup, you can change which line is used for calls, SMS and mobile data in the SIMs section.

Google Pixel phones let you use a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time without any trouble.

After you arrive in your destination country

Installing an eSIM and activating it are two separate stages.

With LimitSim plans, the usage period doesn't start the moment the eSIM is installed — it starts when you first connect to a mobile network in your destination country.

After you arrive in the country:

  • activate the eSIM profile;
  • select that eSIM for mobile data;
  • turn on Data roaming for that eSIM.

This setting simply lets the eSIM connect to partner operators' networks — it doesn't create any extra roaming charges.

Within a few minutes, the phone will connect to the local network.

If your plan doesn't include calls and SMS, you can keep your main SIM card active for calls.

Problems you might run into

The QR code won't scan

  • Open the QR code on another device.
  • Clean the camera.
  • Increase the screen brightness.

If needed, enter the activation details manually.

The eSIM is installed, but there's no internet

Check that:

  • the eSIM is selected for mobile data;
  • Mobile data is turned on for that eSIM;
  • Data roaming is turned on.

Then turn Airplane mode on and off again, or restart your phone.

Still no internet

If the problem continues:

  • check the APN settings;
  • enter the APN details provided by your operator (if needed).

Don't delete the eSIM profile unless support recommends it, because many eSIM QR codes can only be used once.

The confirmation email that LimitSim sends keeps both the QR code and the setup details. If needed, support can help you with a new activation.

Frequently asked questions

Can I install the eSIM before I travel?

Yes.

In fact, it's recommended. You can install the eSIM in advance at home over Wi-Fi.

With LimitSim plans, the usage period only starts once you activate it in your destination country.

How can I check whether my Android phone supports eSIM?

In Settings, search for the word "eSIM" or "SIM".

Alternatively, dial the code *#06#.

If an EID number appears, your phone supports eSIM technology.

Where do I get my LimitSim QR code?

Right after you buy your eSIM plan, the QR code and setup instructions are sent to your email.

To make it easy to scan the QR code, it's a good idea to open it on a second device.

The eSIM is installed, but the internet isn't working. What should I do?

First, check that:

  • the eSIM is selected for mobile data;
  • Mobile data is turned on;
  • Data roaming is turned on.

Then turn Airplane mode on and off, or restart your phone.

If the problem continues, check the APN settings and contact LimitSim support before deleting the eSIM profile.