How to Install eSIM on Android: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
Simple instructions for Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus & all Android devices
📖 15 min read · Updated October 26, 2025
Planning a trip to India and want to stay connected without paying ridiculous roaming fees? Installing an eSIM on your Android phone is the smartest solution—and it's easier than you think.
I remember the first time I tried to install an eSIM on my Samsung Galaxy. I was nervous about messing something up, but the whole process took less than 5 minutes. No more hunting for SIM card ejector tools, no more tiny cards to lose, and no more outrageous international roaming charges.
In this guide, I'll walk you through exactly how to install an eSIM on Android devices, whether you have a Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, or any other Android phone. Plus, I'll show you which eSIM providers work best for India travel.
đź“‘ Quick Navigation
What is an eSIM & Why Use It?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your Android phone. Instead of inserting a physical plastic card, you download your carrier's profile digitally. Think of it like downloading an app, but for your phone service.
Why eSIM is Perfect for India Travel
đź’ˇ Key Benefits of Using eSIM
- Instant activation: No waiting for a physical SIM to arrive in the mail
- Keep your home number: Your regular SIM stays active for calls and texts
- Save 90% on roaming: Get local India rates instead of $10-15/day roaming fees
- No SIM swap hassle: Switch between plans without removing anything
- Travel-friendly: Buy plans for multiple countries without carrying SIM cards
For travelers heading to India, an eSIM means you can land in Delhi or Mumbai and immediately have data and a local number—no airport kiosk lines, no language barriers, and no overpriced roaming charges.
Check if Your Android Supports eSIM
Not all Android phones support eSIM yet. Here's how to check if yours does:
eSIM-Compatible Android Phones (2025)
Samsung Galaxy Series:
- Galaxy S24, S23, S22, S21 series (all models)
- Galaxy S20 and newer (US/international models)
- Galaxy Z Fold 5, 4, 3
- Galaxy Z Flip 5, 4, 3
- Galaxy Note 20 series
Google Pixel:
- Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 7, 7 Pro, 7a
- Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
- Pixel 5, 5a
- Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL
- Pixel 3, 3a, 3 XL (some models)
OnePlus:
- OnePlus 12, 11
- OnePlus 10 Pro, 10T
- OnePlus 9, 9 Pro
- OnePlus Fold, Nord series (select models)
Other Brands:
- Motorola Razr series (2023, 2022)
- Xiaomi 13 series and newer
- Oppo Find X5, X3 series
- Sony Xperia 1 V, 10 V
How to Check Your Android Phone
Tap the Settings app on your Android phone.
Look for "Connections" (Samsung), "Network & Internet" (Google Pixel), or "SIM cards & mobile networks" (other brands).
If you see an option to "Add eSIM," "Download a SIM," or "Add mobile plan," your phone supports eSIM!
⚠️ Important Note
Some carrier-locked Android phones (especially in the US) have eSIM capability disabled. If you bought your phone through a carrier like Verizon or AT&T, you may need to unlock it first. Contact your carrier to unlock your device before purchasing an eSIM for international travel.
Before You Start: What You Need
Before installing your eSIM, make sure you have everything ready:
Requirements Checklist
- âś… An eSIM-compatible Android phone (see list above)
- âś… Phone is unlocked (not carrier-locked)
- âś… Strong WiFi connection (for downloading eSIM profile)
- âś… QR code or activation code from your eSIM provider
- âś… 5-10 minutes of time
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Install Before You Travel
Don't wait until you're at the airport! Install your eSIM while you're still at home on your WiFi. The eSIM won't activate until you land in India and turn it on, but having it pre-installed means you'll have data the moment you step off the plane.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
The installation process is similar across most Android phones, but I'll cover the three most common methods.
Method 1: Install Using QR Code (Most Common)
This is the easiest and most common method. Most eSIM providers like Airalo will send you a QR code to scan.
Open the email or app from your eSIM provider (like Airalo, Saily, or Yesim) on another device, or print the QR code. You can't scan a QR code that's on the same phone you're setting up!
Go to Settings > Connections (Samsung) or Network & Internet (Google Pixel/OnePlus).
Look for the section that manages your SIM cards. The exact name varies by brand:
- Samsung: "SIM Card Manager"
- Google Pixel: Tap the "+" icon next to "SIMs"
- OnePlus: "SIM & Network"
You'll see an option like:
- "Add mobile plan" (Samsung)
- "Download a SIM instead?" (Google Pixel)
- "Add eSIM" (OnePlus)
Your phone's camera will activate. Point it at the QR code from your eSIM provider. Make sure you have good lighting and hold your phone steady.
Your phone will show you the plan details (carrier name, plan type). Tap "Download" or "Add" to confirm. This takes 30-60 seconds.
You can label it something like "India Travel" or "Airalo" to remember which SIM is which. This is helpful if you have multiple eSIMs.
The eSIM is now installed but not activated yet. It will automatically activate when you land in India and turn it on in your settings.
âś… Success!
Your eSIM is now installed. When you arrive in India, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager, toggle on your eSIM, and you'll have instant data and a local number.
Method 2: Install Using Manual Entry (Activation Code)
Some eSIM providers give you an activation code instead of a QR code. This method takes a bit longer but works just as well.
Your eSIM provider will give you an activation code (also called SM-DP+ address and activation code). Copy both pieces of information.
Follow steps 2-4 from Method 1 above to get to the "Add eSIM" screen.
Instead of scanning a QR code, look for an option like "Enter code manually" or "Need help?"
Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code exactly as provided by your eSIM provider. Double-check for typos!
Tap "Download" and follow the same steps as Method 1 to complete installation.
Method 3: Install Through Provider App
Some eSIM providers like Airalo have their own apps that make installation even easier.
Install the Airalo app (or whichever eSIM provider you're using) from the Google Play Store.
Browse available plans for India, select one, and complete the purchase in the app.
The app will have a button that says "Install eSIM" or "Add to device." Tap it.
The app will guide you through the same installation process as Method 1, but it handles all the technical details automatically.
đź’ˇ Which Method Should You Use?
QR Code (Method 1): Fastest and easiest—works 95% of the time.
Manual Entry (Method 2): Use if QR code won't scan or you're having camera issues.
Provider App (Method 3): Best if you're buying from Airalo or similar apps—they handle everything for you.
Common Problems & Solutions
Here are the most common issues people face when installing eSIM on Android, and how to fix them:
Problem 1: "Can't Find Add eSIM Option"
Solution:
- Make sure your phone is on the compatible list above
- Update your Android to the latest version (Settings > System > Software Update)
- If you bought your phone through a carrier, it may be locked. Contact your carrier to unlock it
- Some regional models don't support eSIM—check with your phone manufacturer
Problem 2: "QR Code Won't Scan"
Solution:
- Clean your phone's camera lens
- Increase brightness on the device showing the QR code
- Make sure you have good lighting
- Try moving closer or farther from the QR code
- Use Method 2 (manual entry) instead
Problem 3: "Installation Failed" or Error Message
Solution:
- Make sure you have a strong WiFi connection (not mobile data)
- Restart your phone and try again
- Check if the QR code has already been used (most can only be used once)
- Contact your eSIM provider—they can generate a new QR code
Problem 4: "eSIM Installed But No Service"
Solution:
- Make sure you've turned ON the eSIM in Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager
- Enable data roaming for the eSIM
- Restart your phone after landing in India
- Select the eSIM as your default data SIM
- Wait 5-10 minutes—sometimes activation takes a few minutes
Problem 5: "Can I Have Two SIMs Active?"
Solution:
Yes! This is the beauty of eSIM. You can keep your regular physical SIM for calls/texts and use the eSIM for data. Here's how:
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager
- Toggle ON both your physical SIM and eSIM
- Set your physical SIM for "Calls & Text"
- Set your eSIM for "Mobile Data"
Now you'll receive calls on your home number while using cheap India data rates!
⚠️ Still Having Issues?
If you're stuck, contact your eSIM provider's customer support. Most providers like Airalo, Saily, and Yesim have 24/7 chat support that can walk you through the process or send you a new QR code if needed.
Best eSIM Providers for India Travel
Now that you know how to install eSIM on Android, which provider should you choose? I've tested all the major ones for India travel, and here are my top picks:
1. Airalo eSIM
Best OverallBest for: Travelers who want reliable coverage and great value
Why Airalo is #1: Airalo is the most popular eSIM provider globally, and for good reason. Their India plans work on both Airtel and Vodafone networks (the two largest carriers in India), so you get excellent coverage everywhere from Mumbai to rural villages.
đź’ˇ What Makes Airalo Special
- Instant activation: Data works the moment you land in India
- Local Indian number included: Get calls and texts on an Indian number
- Top-up anytime: Need more data mid-trip? Add more in 2 minutes
- No registration required: No ID verification or paperwork
- Works on 200+ countries: One app for all your future travels
India Plans & Pricing:
- 1GB / 7 days - $4.50
- 3GB / 30 days - $11
- 5GB / 30 days - $16
- 10GB / 30 days - $26
- 20GB / 30 days - $42
Coverage: Airtel & Vodafone networks (99% of India)
Installation: Download the Airalo app, buy a plan, tap "Install eSIM"—takes 3 minutes total. The app walks you through everything.
Get Airalo eSIM for India →2. Saily eSIM
Premium OptionBest for: Travelers who want premium support and reliability
Why choose Saily: Backed by the team behind NordVPN, Saily offers premium eSIM service with excellent customer support. Their India plans are slightly more expensive than Airalo but come with 24/7 live chat support and a money-back guarantee.
India Plans & Pricing:
- 1GB / 7 days - $5.49
- 3GB / 30 days - $13.49
- 5GB / 30 days - $19.49
- 10GB / 30 days - $31.49
Coverage: Vodafone & Airtel networks
Unique features: 7-day money-back guarantee, premium support, Nord Security reliability
Try Saily eSIM →3. Yesim eSIM
Budget-FriendlyBest for: Budget travelers who want basic coverage
Why choose Yesim: Yesim offers the most affordable eSIM plans for India, perfect if you're on a tight budget or only need data for basic browsing and messaging.
India Plans & Pricing:
- 1GB / 7 days - $3.99
- 3GB / 30 days - $9.99
- 5GB / 30 days - $14.99
- 10GB / 30 days - $24.99
Coverage: Airtel network
Note: Yesim offers good basic coverage but doesn't include a local Indian number like Airalo does.
Get Yesim eSIM →💡 Quick Comparison
Best overall value & features: Airalo (local number + great coverage + easy app)
Best for premium support: Saily (Nord Security reliability + money-back guarantee)
Best for budget travelers: Yesim (lowest prices + good basic coverage)
Want a detailed comparison? Check out our complete guide to the best eSIMs for India travel.
Which eSIM Should You Choose?
🎯 Quick Decision Guide
Traveling to India for 1-2 weeks? → Get Airalo's 5GB/30 days plan for $16. Perfect for Google Maps, WhatsApp, and occasional browsing.
Need a local Indian number for business or Uber? → Airalo is the only one that includes a real Indian phone number.
On a tight budget? → Yesim's 3GB/30 days plan for $9.99 covers basic needs.
Want premium support & reliability? → Saily offers Nord Security's quality with 24/7 support.
Heavy data user (streaming video, work calls)? → Get Airalo's 10GB or 20GB plan to avoid running out mid-trip.
How to Activate Your eSIM When You Land
Once you've installed your eSIM following the steps above, here's what to do when you arrive in India:
- Turn off Airplane Mode
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager
- Toggle ON your eSIM (it will say "Airalo" or whatever name you gave it)
- Enable "Mobile Data" for your eSIM
- Enable "Data Roaming" for your eSIM
- Wait 2-5 minutes for connection
That's it! You'll see the carrier name (Airtel or Vodafone) appear in your status bar, and you'll have instant data.
đź“š Related Guides You Might Find Helpful
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install eSIM on Android before traveling?
Yes! You should install your eSIM while you're still at home on WiFi. The eSIM won't activate or start using data until you land in India and turn it on in your settings. Installing it beforehand means you'll have instant connectivity the moment you arrive.
Do I need to remove my physical SIM card to use eSIM?
No, you don't need to remove your physical SIM. Most Android phones support dual SIM, meaning both your regular SIM and eSIM can be active simultaneously. You can use your physical SIM for calls/texts on your home number while using the eSIM for data in India.
How long does it take to install eSIM on Android?
Installing an eSIM typically takes 3-5 minutes. The actual download takes about 30-60 seconds, and the rest of the time is spent navigating to the right settings and scanning the QR code. Make sure you have a strong WiFi connection for the fastest installation.
Can I delete and reinstall an eSIM?
You can delete an eSIM from your Android phone at any time by going to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager and selecting "Remove eSIM." However, most eSIM QR codes can only be used once. If you need to reinstall it, you'll need to contact your eSIM provider for a new QR code.
Will my eSIM work immediately when I land in India?
Your eSIM should connect within 2-5 minutes after you land and turn it on. Make sure you've enabled mobile data and data roaming for the eSIM. If it doesn't connect immediately, restart your phone. Some networks take up to 10 minutes to fully activate after landing.
What happens to my regular phone number with eSIM?
Your regular phone number stays completely active. With dual SIM support on most Android phones, you can receive calls and texts on your home number while using the eSIM for mobile data. Just make sure to set your physical SIM as the default for calls/texts and the eSIM as the default for data.
Can I use WhatsApp with an eSIM?
Absolutely! WhatsApp works perfectly with eSIM data. Your WhatsApp account is tied to your original phone number (on your physical SIM), so you'll continue using WhatsApp with your regular number while the eSIM provides the data connection. Some eSIM plans like Airalo also include a local Indian number that you can use for a second WhatsApp account if needed.
Final Thoughts
Installing an eSIM on your Android phone is straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you have a Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or OnePlus device, the process takes less than 5 minutes and can save you hundreds of dollars in roaming fees during your India trip.
For most travelers, I recommend Airalo as the best all-around eSIM provider for India. Their plans offer excellent value, reliable coverage on both Airtel and Vodafone networks, a local Indian number for Uber and business needs, and an easy-to-use app that handles installation automatically. The 5GB/30 days plan at $16 is perfect for most travelers.
If you want premium support and don't mind paying a bit extra, Saily offers Nord Security's reliability with 24/7 customer support. And if you're on a budget, Yesim provides solid basic coverage at the lowest prices.
The most important thing is to install your eSIM before you travel. Don't wait until you're at the airport—set it up at home on your WiFi, and you'll have instant connectivity the moment you land in India. Safe travels!
