Samsung eSIM: UK Setup Guide, Compatible Phones & Activation (2026)

Most Samsung phones from the Galaxy S20 series and newer support eSIM, along with select Z Fold, Z Flip, and A-series models.

To confirm eSIM support on your device, dial *#06# — if an EID number (a 32-digit code) appears on screen, your phone is eSIM-capable.

To activate, go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM and use the click-to-install link provided by your eSIM provider, or scan a QR code if needed. The process takes under five minutes and requires a Wi-Fi connection.

In short:

• Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer → eSIM supported

• Dial *#06# → check for EID number

• Activate via Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your Samsung phone. Unlike a traditional physical SIM that you insert into a tray, an eSIM is soldered onto the motherboard and activated entirely through software.

This means you can store and switch between multiple mobile plans without ever swapping a physical card. On most Samsung phones, eSIM works alongside a physical SIM slot — giving you true dual SIM functionality where you can run two separate numbers or plans at the same time.

For a deeper look at the technology, our guide on what is eSIM explains how it works across all devices and carriers.

Instead of one long, unstructured list, here's a clean breakdown by category. This makes it easy to find your model quickly.

eSIM availability may vary depending on region and carrier support.

Latest Samsung eSIM Phones (2024–2026)

Mid-Range Samsung eSIM Compatible Phones (A Series, 2022–2023)

Older Supported Devices (2020–2022)

⚠️ Important Notes Before You Buy an eSIM Plan:

• FE (Fan Edition) models — most FE models do not support eSIM. The S23 FE is the first Fan Edition to include it. Earlier models like the S21 FE and S20 FE do not support eSIM in most markets.

• Region-based restrictions — Samsung phones sold in China, Hong Kong, and certain other markets often have eSIM hardware disabled at the factory level, even if the global model supports it.

• Carrier-locked devices — if your Samsung was purchased through a carrier on a locked contract, eSIM may be restricted until the device is fully unlocked.

These sections answer the most commonly searched questions about specific Samsung eSIM compatible phones. If your model isn't in the main table above, check here first.

Does the Samsung Galaxy A54 Support eSIM?

Yes. The Galaxy A54 supports eSIM in most major markets including the US, UK, Europe, and Australia. It features a hybrid SIM tray, meaning it can run a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously. Dial *#06# to confirm your specific unit has an EID before purchasing a plan.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S21 Support eSIM?

Yes — with one caveat. The Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra support eSIM on unlocked global variants. However, some carrier-specific units sold in the US had eSIM functionality restricted at launch. If you have an unlocked S21, eSIM should work. Always confirm with *#06# first.

Does the Samsung Galaxy A35 Support eSIM?

Yes. The Galaxy A35 (2024) supports eSIM and is one of the most affordable Samsung eSIM phones available. It's a strong mid-range option for travelers who want dual SIM flexibility without a flagship price tag.

Does the Samsung Galaxy A15 Support eSIM?

No. The Samsung Galaxy A15 does not support eSIM. It is a budget-tier device that uses a physical SIM only. If eSIM support is a priority, consider stepping up to the A34 or A35, both of which are fully eSIM compatible.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE Support eSIM?

No. The Galaxy S20 FE (Fan Edition) does not support eSIM in most regions. Despite being based on the S20 lineup — which does support eSIM — Samsung removed this capability from the FE model to keep costs down. This applies to both the 4G and 5G variants of the S20 FE.

Does the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Support eSIM?

Yes. The Z Flip 3, Z Flip 4, Z Flip 5, and Z Flip 6 all support eSIM. These foldable models are particularly popular with frequent travelers due to their compact form factor combined with full dual-connectivity features.

Most eSIM providers offer a click-to-install link as the main method, with a QR code as a backup option. Knowing how to activate eSIM on Samsung is straightforward once you know where to look. Here are both activation methods, clearly laid out.

Method 1: Click-to-Install Link (Recommended)

1. Open the installation link provided by your eSIM provider

2. Tap “Install eSIM” when prompted

3. Your Samsung device will automatically open SIM Manager

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to add the eSIM

5. Confirm and complete activation

Note: If your provider gives a QR code instead, you can still install it via the Scan QR code option in SIM Manager.

Method 2: Manual Activation Code

If you don't have a QR code, your provider may supply an activation code instead:

1. Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM

2. Tap Enter activation code manually

3. Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided

4. Confirm and complete activation

After activation, return to SIM Manager to set which SIM handles calls, texts, and mobile data.

Tip: Always connect to Wi-Fi before activating an eSIM. The profile download requires an internet connection and cannot be completed over mobile data.

For a full visual walkthrough, see our Samsung eSIM installation guide with step-by-step screenshots for all major One UI versions.

For UK travellers, roaming charges can quickly add up when using your home network abroad, especially across Europe and international destinations. A travel eSIM offers a much more cost-effective alternative.

If you're using a Samsung eSIM compatible phone for international travel, adding a travel eSIM is one of the smartest moves you can make before your trip.

Here's why it matters:

• No roaming charges — international roaming from your home carrier can cost £5–£15 per day or more. A travel eSIM gives you local data rates at a fraction of that cost.

• Works in 200+ countries — most major travel eSIM providers offer coverage across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond.

• Install before you fly — download and set up your plan from home, so you have data the moment you land. No hunting for airport SIM kiosks, no queues.

• Keep your home number active — because your Samsung runs dual SIM, your existing physical SIM stays live for calls and texts while the travel eSIM handles data.

• Instant activation — most plans go live within seconds connecting to a local network. 

For a full side-by-side comparison of providers, pricing, and coverage, see our best travel eSIM guide for 2026. If you're heading to the United States specifically, our USA eSIM guide covers the top plans, network compatibility, and setup steps tailored for Samsung devices.

A travel eSIM is one of the easiest ways to stay connected abroad without changing your number or relying on expensive roaming plans.

eSIM Not Activating

Symptoms: QR code scanned but plan won't load, or activation is stuck on "Downloading."

Fixes:

• Connect to Wi-Fi — mobile data cannot be used to download a new eSIM profile

• Restart the phone and attempt activation again

• Confirm the QR code hasn't already been used — most are single-use only

• Contact your provider for a replacement QR code if needed

No Signal After eSIM Activation

Symptoms: eSIM shows as active in SIM Manager but displays "No service."

Fixes:

• Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → Network operators and search manually

• Confirm the eSIM is set as the preferred data line in SIM Manager

• Toggle Airplane Mode on and off to force a network refresh

• Enable Data Roaming 

SIM Manager Missing or Add eSIM Greyed Out

Symptoms: Cannot find SIM Manager, or the "Add eSIM" option is inactive.

Fixes:

• Dial *#06# to check for an EID — no EID means no eSIM hardware

• Carrier-locked devices may have eSIM disabled — contact your carrier or request an unlock

• Update your Samsung software via Settings → Software Update

eSIM Disappeared After a Software Update

Symptoms: A previously working eSIM profile is no longer visible after a One UI update.

Fixes:

• Check Settings → Connections → SIM Manager — the profile may still be listed but inactive

• If completely missing, contact your eSIM provider — most can reissue the QR code at no cost

If you're experiencing persistent problems not covered here, our dedicated guide on eSIM not working fixes walks through advanced troubleshooting steps across devices and carriers.

Get your easySim eSIM for UK travel →