The Complete Guide to Samsung Galaxy eSIM for the S, A, and Z Series

Editor’s Note: Roami is the brand behind this guide. All compatibility information is based on Samsung’s official documentation, GSMA standards, and our team’s device testing in 2026. We aim to provide clear, accurate guidance so you can confidently determine if your Samsung phone supports eSIM.

Samsung eSIM Quick Answer – Does Your Galaxy Support It?

The short answer: If you own a Galaxy S21 or newer (S21, S22, S23, S24, S25), yes – your phone supports eSIM in all regions, including the US. If you’re asking “does Samsung have eSIM” – the answer is yes, but it depends on your specific model.

Why does this matter? eSIM lets you add a mobile plan without hunting for a physical SIM card. For travelers, this means you can buy a local data plan before you even leave home and activate it the moment you land. No more searching for a SIM card stall at the airport or fumbling with a SIM ejector tool.

Here’s how to check your specific Samsung model in 10 seconds:

1. Dial *#06# on your phone’s keypad.
2. Look for a 32‑digit EID number on your screen.
3. See it? Your phone supports eSIM. Only see IMEI numbers? Your phone does NOT support eSIM.

For the full list of Samsung eSIM compatible phones, see our complete compatibility list.

Still not sure? Grab a free trial eSIM – it takes 2 minutes and confirms your phone is ready without spending a penny.

How to Identify Your Samsung Model for eSIM Compatibility

One of the biggest reasons Samsung users get confused is they don’t know which version of their phone they have. The same model name can have eSIM in one region but not in another.

Step 1: Find your model number

Go to Settings > About Phone > Model Number. You’ll see something like SM-S918B or SM-S918U.

Step 2: Decode your model number suffix

Step 3: Check your CSC code (Samsung-specific region code)

On Samsung phones, the CSC code determines which region’s firmware you’re running:

1. Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Information.
2. Scroll to Service Provider SW Ver.
3. Look at the last three letters of the CSC code:

The bottom line: If your model number ends in “U” (US) and it’s an S20 – no eSIM. If it ends in “B” or “E” (international) – eSIM is available. If you have a China model (ending in “0” or CSC “CHC”) – no eSIM, no fix.

For a comparable Android alternative, see our Google Pixel eSIM compatibility guide .

Samsung eSIM Quick Decision Flow – Which Galaxy Do You Have?

Not all Samsung phones are created equal. Use this quick decision tree to find your model and whether it supports eSIM.

Not sure which version you have? Use the model decoder above to check your model number and CSC code.

Want to test without buying? Try a free trial eSIM first – it’s the quickest way to know for sure.

Complete Samsung eSIM Compatibility Table (S / A / Z / Note)

How to Verify eSIM on Any Samsung Phone

Method 1: Dial *#06# (most reliable)

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Dial *#06# and press call.
3. Look for a 32-digit EID (Embedded Identity Document). If present, your device has eSIM hardware.
4. If you only see IMEI numbers (IMEI1, IMEI2), eSIM is not available.

This method works for Samsung eSIM activation check on any model, from S series to A series.

Method 2: Check Settings menu

• Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager.
• If you see “Add eSIM” or “Download eSIM”, your phone supports eSIM.
• If those options are missing, eSIM is disabled or not present.

Method 3: Software update check

For some models (like S20 international), eSIM was added via One UI 3.1 (Android 11). Ensure you’re on the latest version:

• Settings > Software Update > Download and Install.

Method 4: Check your CSC code

On Samsung phones, eSIM availability is sometimes tied to the CSC (region) code. See the model identification section above for details.

Method 5: Still unsure? Try a free trial eSIM

Nothing beats a real test. A free trial eSIM takes 2 minutes to install and confirms your phone is ready before you spend any money on a full plan.

How to Activate eSIM on Supported Samsung Phones

Once you’ve confirmed that your Samsung phones with eSIM includes your model, activation is straightforward:

1. Purchase an eSIM plan (for travel or daily use).
2. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add eSIM.
3. Scan the eSIM QR code provided by your carrier (or enter activation code manually).
4. Follow on-screen instructions to download the profile.
5. Set your eSIM as default for calls, SMS, or mobile data.
6. Turn on Data Roaming when traveling.

Activation Path by One UI Version

If you don’t see “Add eSIM”, your device may have eSIM disabled by carrier firmware – even if hardware exists. Skip to the troubleshooting section below.

Pro Tip: Install your eSIM before you leave home while connected to stable Wi-Fi. The profile sits inactive on your phone until you turn on Data Roaming upon arrival – no need to wait until you land.

Common Samsung eSIM activation issue: Some users see “Your carrier does not support this feature” when trying to add an eSIM. This usually means:

• Your phone is carrier‑locked (check Settings > About Phone > Status > SIM Lock Status)
• Your phone is a US S20 (eSIM permanently disabled)
• Your phone has a China CSC (no eSIM support)

Dual SIM on Samsung: Physical SIM + eSIM

Most eSIM-capable Samsung phones support DSDS (Dual SIM Dual Standby):

• You can use one physical nano-SIM and one eSIM simultaneously.
• Both numbers stay active – calls and texts can be received on either line.
• You choose which SIM handles mobile data.

This is especially useful for:

• Travel – keep your home SIM active for 2FA texts while using a local data eSIM.
• Work/personal – separate numbers on one phone.
• Testing carriers – try a free eSIM without removing your main SIM.

Newer models (S23 and later) also support dual eSIM (two active eSIMs, no physical SIM) – but the physical+eSIM combo is the most common setup for travelers.

How to Enable Dual SIM on Samsung

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager.
2. Under Preferred SIMs, choose which SIM handles:
   • Calls – choose your primary voice line
   • Messages – choose your primary SMS line
   • Mobile Data – choose which SIM uses data
3. Toggle on Allow Data Switching – this lets your phone temporarily use the other SIM’s data if the primary loses signal.

Important: If you’re using a travel eSIM for data and your home physical SIM for calls, set:

• Calls → Physical SIM
• Mobile Data → eSIM
• Data Roaming → OFF on physical SIM, ON on eSIM

eSIM vs Physical SIM on Samsung – Which Should You Use?

If your Samsung phone supports both eSIM and physical SIM, here’s how they compare to help you decide.

Which should you choose?

• For travel (1-30 days): eSIM wins – buy before you leave, activate on arrival, no hunting for SIM cards at the airport.
• For long‑term stays (3+ months): Local physical SIM usually offers better per‑GB rates and a local phone number.
• For maximum flexibility: Use both – keep your home physical SIM for calls/SMS and a travel eSIM for data (DSDS).

Why Do Some Samsung Phones Lack eSIM? – Regional Differences Explained

Samsung’s eSIM support varies by region due to carrier demands and firmware choices. Understanding these regional differences is key to picking the right Samsung Galaxy eSIM device.

USA

• S21 and newer – full eSIM support on all carriers (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, and unlocked).
• S20 series – eSIM disabled on all US Snapdragon models. This includes carrier and “unlocked” US versions.
• Note 20 Ultra US – no eSIM.
• Z Fold/Flip US carrier models – sometimes eSIM is locked; factory unlocked versions are safer.

US Carrier-Specific Notes

International / Global (Exynos)

• Most international models (Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa) support eSIM from S20 onward.
• Exynos versions of S20, Note 20 Ultra, and older flagships have eSIM enabled via software updates.

Canada

• Mixed support. Some Canadian S20 models gained eSIM after updates; newer S-series work.

China / Hong Kong

• Samsung does not enable eSIM on phones sold in mainland China (regulatory reasons). Hong Kong models often work.

Japan

• Japanese carrier variants (Docomo, au, SoftBank) frequently disable eSIM – similar to Pixel situation.

Bottom line: For guaranteed eSIM, buy a Galaxy S21 or newer from any region, or an unlocked international S20 (Exynos). For a comparable Android alternative, see our Google Pixel eSIM compatibility guide .

Samsung S Series eSIM Support – Full Breakdown

Galaxy S25, S24, S23, S22, S21 (Full Support)

All flagship models from the S21 generation onward fully support eSIM. This includes the S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, S21 FE, the S22, S22+, S22 Ultra, the S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE, the S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, S24 FE, and the latest S25 series. For the Ultra models specifically, the Samsung S22 Ultra eSIM and Samsung S23 Ultra eSIM work globally, and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra eSIM support is confirmed.

These phones are among the best Samsung eSIM compatible phones for travelers because they work with every major eSIM provider (Airalo, Holafly, Roami, etc.) and US carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, and Google Fi.

Galaxy S20 (Partial Support)

The S20 series is the first Samsung phone with eSIM hardware – but only international Exynos versions received the software enablement. If you own an international S20 (Exynos), update to One UI 3.1 (Android 11) or later, then use *#06# to confirm EID. US Snapdragon models and the S20 FE have no eSIM at all.

Galaxy S10 and Older

Most S10 models do not support eSIM. A very small number of international Exynos S10 variants (SM-G973F) may show an EID after updates, but this is rare. For practical purposes, the Galaxy S10 series is not eSIM-compatible. S9 and earlier have no eSIM hardware.

Samsung A Series eSIM Support – What Works and What Doesn’t

The A series is complicated – most models lack eSIM entirely, but a few newer ones include it.

A Series Models WITHOUT eSIM (Most Common)

The following models do not have eSIM hardware or firmware support: Galaxy A15, A16, A32, A33, A51, A52, A52s, A53, A71, A72, A73, as well as the A12, A22, and A13. The Galaxy A15, A16, and A32 do not support eSIM. These budget models rely solely on physical SIM cards.

Important for travelers: The Galaxy A15 5G and A16 5G have 5G but lack eSIM. 5G capability does not imply eSIM support – this is a common misconception.

A Series Models WITH eSIM (Newer)

Starting in 2024, Samsung added eSIM to select higher-tier A series phones:

• Galaxy A54 – supports eSIM (5G model).
• Galaxy A55 – supports eSIM (successor to A54).
• Galaxy A35 – supports eSIM (budget-friendly but includes eSIM).
• Galaxy A56 (expected 2026) – likely will support eSIM.

For these, dial *#06# to confirm EID. Even if an A series phone has eSIM hardware, some carrier-locked versions may disable it – unlocked versions are safest.

Samsung Z Series (Foldables) eSIM Support

Most Samsung foldables from the Z Fold2 and Z Flip3 onward support eSIM. This includes the Z Fold2, Fold3, Fold4, Fold5, Fold6, Fold7, as well as the Z Flip3, Flip4, Flip5, Flip6, and Flip7. International and US unlocked versions work reliably. Carrier-locked US models (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) may have eSIM disabled. Always buy factory unlocked for guaranteed Samsung phones with eSIM functionality.

Foldables also support dual SIM: one physical SIM + one eSIM, or dual eSIM (on newer models).

Samsung Note Series eSIM Support

• Note 20 Ultra (international Exynos) – supports eSIM after One UI 3.1 update.
• Note 20 Ultra (US Snapdragon) – no eSIM.
• Note 10 and Note 9 – no eSIM hardware.

5G and eSIM on Samsung

Starting with the Galaxy S21, every subsequent generation – including the S22, S23, S24, and S25 – fully supports 5G connectivity on eSIM. The international Exynos version of the S20 also supports 5G on eSIM. There is no performance difference between using a physical SIM and an eSIM for 5G.

Troubleshooting 5G on Samsung eSIM

If 5G isn’t working on your Samsung eSIM:

1. Check that 5G is enabled: Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Mode → select 5G/LTE/3G/2G (auto connect).
2. Check with your carrier – some carriers restrict 5G on eSIM or require a specific APN.
3. Ensure your plan includes 5G access. Some travel eSIMs are 4G/LTE only.
4. Restart your phone after enabling 5G.

Remember: 5G does NOT mean eSIM. Some A-series models (like A15 5G and A16 5G) have 5G but lack eSIM entirely. Always check with *#06#.

Carrier Compatibility for Samsung eSIM

The following eSIM providers work on most Samsung eSIM compatible phones (S21+ and international S20):

Any Samsung with eSIM (S21+, international S20, Z Fold/Flip) works with Holafly and Roami.

How to Confirm Your Carrier Supports eSIM on Samsung

Not sure if your specific carrier supports eSIM? Here’s how to check:

1. Check your carrier’s official website – search for “eSIM compatibility [carrier name]”.
2. For US carriers:
   • Verizon & T-Mobile – support eSIM on all S21+ models (including locked and unlocked).
   • AT&T – supports eSIM on most unlocked S-series and AT&T-branded S21+ devices. Some older models may be restricted.
   • Google Fi – works seamlessly on all eSIM‑capable Samsung phones.
3. For travel: Any travel eSIM provider (Roami, Airalo, Holafly) works on supported Samsung models – no carrier check needed. Just buy, scan, and go.

Still unsure? Dial *#06# to confirm your phone has an EID. If it does, any travel eSIM will work. If you’re trying to use your home carrier’s eSIM, contact them directly – they’ll tell you if your specific device and plan qualify.

Troubleshooting: eSIM Not Working on Samsung

APN Settings for Samsung

If after eSIM activation you experience no data connection, configure APN manually:

1. Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names.
2. Tap Add (or the + icon).
3. Enter the APN from your provider.
4. Save and select the new APN.
5. Restart your phone.

Common APN values for travel eSIMs on Samsung:

For UK carriers on Samsung:

Need more advanced help? For deeper troubleshooting (including dual‑eSIM issues on other platforms), see our eSIM Deep Troubleshooting Guide 2026 and iPhone Dual eSIM Not Working? 12 Fixes – the core principles apply across devices.

Samsung eSIM Not Listed? How to Check Any Samsung Model

If you’ve gone through this entire guide and your specific Samsung model isn’t listed, here’s what to do:

Step 1: The Universal Check

Dial *#06#. If you see an EID, your phone supports eSIM – even if it wasn’t listed here. If you only see IMEI numbers, it does not.

Step 2: Check for Software Updates

Some Samsung phones (especially S20 international) received eSIM support via software updates. Go to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install and install any pending updates. Then dial *#06# again.

Step 3: Check Your CSC Code

Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Information > Service Provider SW Ver. Look at the last three letters of the CSC code. If it’s a China CSC (CHC), US carrier CSC (TMB/VZW/ATT), or Japan CSC (DCM/SBM/KDI), eSIM may be disabled.

Step 4: Check Your Carrier

Some carriers disable eSIM on their branded Samsung phones. If you bought your phone from a carrier, check their website or contact them to confirm.

Step 5: Search Online

Search for “[your exact model number] eSIM support” – for example, “SM-G973F eSIM support”. You’ll often find forum discussions or official documentation.

Step 6: Try a Free Trial eSIM

The only way to be 100% sure is to try. Install a free trial Roami eSIM – it takes 2 minutes, costs nothing, and works on any eSIM‑compatible Samsung phone.

👉 Get your free Roami eSIM now

Samsung eSIM vs iPhone eSIM – How Do They Compare?

If you’re switching between Samsung and iPhone (or deciding between the two), here’s how the eSIM experience stacks up:

Bottom line: The underlying eSIM technology (GSMA SGP.22) is identical on both platforms – the only differences are menu paths and carrier firmware restrictions. Samsung S21+ and iPhone XR/SE2+ both work reliably with travel eSIMs.

Transferring eSIM to a New Samsung Phone

Most travel eSIMs are one-time install – you cannot transfer them. For postpaid carrier eSIMs (Verizon, T-Mobile, Google Fi):

1. On old phone: delete eSIM profile (Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > tap eSIM > Remove).
2. On new phone: go to Add eSIM and scan the original QR code or use carrier app.
3. For Google Fi: simply install the Fi app on new phone and sign in.

Always check your eSIM provider’s transfer policy before switching devices.

Moving between iPhone and Android? See our dedicated guide: How to Transfer eSIM Between iPhone and Android .

Frequently Asked Questions About Samsung eSIM

Does the Galaxy S21 series support eSIM? Yes. All models in the S21 family – including the S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, and S21 FE – support eSIM in all regions.

Does the Galaxy S22 Ultra support eSIM? Yes. The S22 Ultra works globally with eSIM, including US carrier versions.

Does the Galaxy S23 support eSIM? Yes. The entire S23 series (S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE) has full eSIM support.

Does the Galaxy S24 Ultra support eSIM? Yes. The S24 Ultra includes standard eSIM functionality – dial *#06# to see its EID.

Does the Galaxy A15 support eSIM? No. The A15 does not have eSIM hardware. It is a physical‑SIM‑only device. This also answers searches for does Samsung A15 have eSIM and Samsung A15 eSIM compatible – both are negative.

Does the Galaxy A16 support eSIM? No. Like the A15, the A16 lacks eSIM capability. Samsung A16 eSIM compatible – no.

Does the Galaxy A32 support eSIM? No. The A32 does not support eSIM – you must use a physical SIM.

Does the Galaxy A35 support eSIM? Yes. The A35 is one of the few A‑series models with eSIM.

Does the Galaxy A54 support eSIM? Yes. The A54 (5G model) supports eSIM.

Do Galaxy Z Fold or Z Flip devices support eSIM? Yes for most models from the Z Fold2 and Z Flip3 onward. Check with *#06# to confirm.

Does the Note 20 Ultra support eSIM? Only the international Exynos version. US Snapdragon models do not.

Which Samsung phones are definitely eSIM compatible? All Galaxy S21, S22, S23, S24, and S25 series (including FE and Ultra models). The international Exynos version of the S20. The Galaxy A54, A55, and A35. The Galaxy Z Fold2 and newer, and Z Flip3 and newer. The international Note 20 Ultra.

For a complete Samsung eSIM phones list, see our full compatibility guide.

How do I check if my Samsung is carrier-locked? Go to Settings > About Phone > Status > SIM Lock Status. If it says “Network Locked”, your phone is carrier-locked. Contact your carrier to request an unlock.

What does “eSIM not supported in your country” mean on Samsung? This usually means your phone has a CSC (region code) that doesn’t support eSIM. This is common on China and US carrier models. There is no easy fix – you may need to flash a different CSC (advanced user only).

Why is the “Add eSIM” option grayed out on my Samsung? This is almost always carrier firmware restriction. AT&T-branded Samsung phones frequently have this issue. Contact your carrier or buy an unlocked phone.

Test with a Free eSIM

If your Samsung shows an EID after dialing *#06#, you can try a free trial eSIM to confirm everything works before buying a paid plan.

👉 Claim your free eSIM

Based on Samsung official documentation, GSMA standards, and carrier information. Updated: August 2026.

Sources

• GSMA — eSIM (SGP.22) specification
• Samsung Support — eSIM