eSIM on Samsung Galaxy: Compatibility, benefits, and set up
Learn which Samsung Galaxy phones are eSIM compatible, how to set up an eSIM, and where you can get the best eSIM plan.
All Samsung Galaxy S20-series phones onwards are eSIM-compatible and offer the option for a physical SIM card as well. So, if you have a newer Samsung device, chances are it supports eSIM.
This article will guide you through which Samsung Galaxy phones are eSIM-compatible, how to benefit from and manage an eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy, and how an unlimited-data travel eSIM from Holafly can help you stay connected worldwide.
What is eSIM on Samsung?
An eSIM on Samsung devices is an embedded SIM that works as an alternative to physical SIM cards. These allow you to connect to mobile networks without needing a plastic card. Some Samsung phones may also support dual SIMs, allowing a nano-SIM and an eSIM to be used simultaneously.
How does eSIM work on Samsung?
eSIMs work the same way on Samsung devices as they do on all other mobile phones. The tech is already built into your eSIM-compatible Samsung. All you need to do is add an eSIM plan via a QR or manual code before selecting it as your primary or secondary line.
Which Samsung models are eSIM compatible?
Any Samsung Galaxy model from 2020 and other mid-range devices, like the A Series, support eSIMs. Some devices might lack eSIM compatibility depending on where they were bought, so double-check this if your device came from Japan, China, or Hong Kong.
Here’s a Samsung eSIM phone list updated for 2026:
| Galaxy S series | Note series | Z-series | Galaxy A series |
|---|---|---|---|
| S20 | Note20 | Fold2 | A35 |
| S21 | Fold3 | A36 | |
| S22 | Fold4 | A54 | |
| S23 | Fold5 | A55 | |
| S24 | Fold6 | A56 | |
| S25 | Fold7 | ||
| S26 | Flip | ||
| Flip3 | |||
| Flip4 | |||
| Flip5 | |||
| Flip6 | |||
| Flip7 |
Note: Got an S23 or S24? Read our guide on how to use an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy S23, Samsung Galaxy S24, and Samsung Galaxy S26.
Using an eSIM on a Samsung smartwatch? Here’s an updated list of compatible devices.
| Watch series | Gear series |
|---|---|
| Watch | Gear 2 |
| Watch Active 2 | Gear S3 |
| Watch Active 3 | |
| Galaxy Watch 3 | |
| Galaxy Watch 4 | |
| Galaxy Watch 5 | |
| Galaxy Watch 6 | |
| Galaxy Watch 7 | |
| Galaxy Watch 8 |
Set up an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy
Setting up an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy is a quick process and applies to most Android phones. The first step is to purchase and install your eSIM profile. Follow this checklist to ensure your Samsung Galaxy eSIM setup goes smoothly.
✅ Check compatibility: Confirm your Samsung Galaxy model is eSIM-compatible. Most modern smartphones are, but it’s always good to double-check.
✅ Get an eSIM: Purchase an eSIM plan, and keep your QR code/manual code handy.
✅ Ensure stable internet: You must have a strong internet connection before you begin the eSIM installation process.
✅ Install and activate your eSIM: Use a QR code or manual code, and follow the steps in your settings. The entire process takes anywhere from five to ten minutes. Visit our detailed guide on how to activate an eSIM on the Samsung Galaxy for a full walkthrough.
How to manage eSIMs on Samsung Galaxy
After setting up the eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy, you can set it as your primary or secondary line, remove other profiles, or connect it to your smartwatch. If you don’t have an eSIM-compatible phone, you can still use a Samsung Galaxy Watch that supports eSIM to add a mobile data plan.
Delete an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy
If you’re changing your local provider or adding a new eSIM profile, you might need to delete an old eSIM to make space for the new one. Here’s how to delete an eSIM on Samsung phones:
- Go to “Settings” and then to “Connections”.
- Press on “SIM Manager” and choose the eSIM you want to remove.
- Press “Remove” and enter your password to continue if required.
- Double-check the eSIM information and press “Remove” to confirm the process.
Note: If you want to re-install an eSIM, you’ll need a new QR code as the old one won’t be available. Additionally, be sure to delete eSIMs you’re not using to avoid unexpected charges.
Transfer an eSIM card to a new Samsung phone
Here’s what you need to do to transfer an eSIM to a Samsung phone:
- Go to “Settings” and tap “Connections” on your new mobile.
- Choose the “SIM Manager” and select “Add eSIM”.
- Press the “Transfer SIM from another device”.
- Go to your old Samsung and unlock it.
- Press “Transfer” on the old device and enter the confirmation code you’ll receive on your new mobile.
- On your new mobile device, tap “Transfer,” then return to your old phone and tap “Confirm.”
- The transfer process will begin. Wait a few seconds, then select the “Done” option, and the eSIM will be activated on your new mobile device.
- Once the transfer is completed, remove the eSIM from your old phone.
This process is pretty simple, but you have to make sure both devices have One UI 5.1 or higher OS.
Tip: Check out our guide on how to transfer an eSIM from iPhone to Samsung if you’re changing your device.
Benefits of using an eSIM for the Samsung Galaxy
Using an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy (or any smartphone) offers a flexible way to stay connected. Here are some benefits of using an eSIM:
- No SIM swapping: Since an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy is built into your device, you can activate a mobile plan without inserting/switching a SIM card.
- Easy carrier switching: You can change networks or plans directly from your settings without waiting for a new SIM card.
- Dual SIM flexibility: Many Samsung Galaxy devices support both physical SIMs and eSIMs simultaneously.
Where to buy an eSIM for your Samsung
There are various eSIM carriers to choose from for your Samsung device. Some other common options are:
- Canada: Bell, Rogers, Telus
- USA: AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon
- Australia: Optus, Telstra, Vodafone AU
- UK: EE, O2, Three, Vodafone UK
- Global: Holafly’s eSIM store
If you’re a frequent traveler, opting for a travel eSIM is a better idea to avoid expensive data roaming charges.
Get an unlimited data eSIM from Holafly for your Samsung
Holafly offers unlimited data travel eSIMs for 200+ destinations worldwide, so you can stay connected without a contract.
If you’re looking for a reliable travel option, using Holafly is your best bet. With unlimited data in over 200 destinations, 24/7 customer support, 5G data speeds, and a daily hotspot allowance, it’s all you can need, and you can say goodbye to data roaming fees.
eSIM guides for other devices
If you’re looking to set up an eSIM on a different device, check out our guides below to learn more:
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