Xiaomi eSIM Guide: Complete Setup and Usage 2026

by Adam Jellal 12 janvier 2026

Xiaomi has gradually adopted eSIM technology across its smartphone lineup, though availability remains more limited compared to Apple or Samsung. Select Xiaomi flagship models now support eSIM, offering users the flexibility of digital SIM cards alongside traditional physical SIMs.

This guide covers which Xiaomi devices support eSIM, how to set it up, and what to know about regional limitations that affect Xiaomi eSIM availability.

Get Qonnect eSIM for your Xiaomi →

Which Xiaomi Phones Support eSIM?

eSIM-Compatible Models

Model	Year	eSIM Support	Physical SIM	Notes
Xiaomi 14	2024	⚠️ Regional	✅ Dual nano-SIM	Limited markets
Xiaomi 14 Pro	2024	⚠️ Regional	✅ Dual nano-SIM	Limited markets
Xiaomi 14 Ultra	2024	⚠️ Regional	✅ Dual nano-SIM	Limited markets
Xiaomi 13	2023	⚠️ Regional	✅ Dual nano-SIM	Limited markets
Xiaomi 13 Pro	2023	⚠️ Regional	✅ Dual nano-SIM	Limited markets
Xiaomi 13 Ultra	2023	⚠️ Regional	✅ Dual nano-SIM	Limited markets
Xiaomi 12S Ultra	2022	⚠️ China only	✅ Dual nano-SIM	China market
Xiaomi Mix Fold 3	2023	⚠️ Regional	✅ nano-SIM	Foldable

Understanding "Regional" eSIM Support

Critical note: Xiaomi's eSIM implementation varies significantly:

Factors affecting eSIM availability:

Country where phone was purchased
Carrier partnerships
Software version (MIUI/HyperOS)
Hardware variant

Markets with better eSIM support:

United Kingdom (select models)
European Union (select models)
India (select models)
Some Asian markets

Markets with limited/no eSIM:

China (ironically, despite being Xiaomi's home market)
United States (limited Xiaomi presence)
Many Latin American countries

How to Check Your Xiaomi for eSIM

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks
Look for eSIM or Add eSIM option
If not visible, your device/region likely doesn't support eSIM

Alternative check:

Settings → About phone
Note your model number
Search Xiaomi specifications for that exact model
Check if eSIM is listed for your region

Xiaomi eSIM Specifications

When eSIM is Available

eSIM profiles: Typically 1-2 stored
Active SIMs: Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS)
Configurations: eSIM + nano-SIM, or dual nano-SIM
5G support: Where carrier and hardware support it

Dual SIM Options on Xiaomi

With eSIM support:

eSIM + Physical nano-SIM
Two physical nano-SIMs (traditional)

Without eSIM:

Two physical nano-SIMs only

Most Xiaomi phones include dual physical SIM slots regardless of eSIM support.

How to Set Up eSIM on Xiaomi

Before You Start

Verify eSIM support:

Check Settings for eSIM option
Confirm your model and region support eSIM
Update to latest MIUI/HyperOS version

Requirements:

Xiaomi phone with eSIM capability
WiFi or cellular connection
QR code from eSIM provider
Latest software update

Method 1: QR Code Scanning

Step-by-step for MIUI 14+ / HyperOS:

Open Settings
Tap SIM cards & mobile networks
Tap eSIM management or Add eSIM
Select Scan QR code
Point camera at QR code from provider
Wait for plan detection
Tap Add or Confirm
Wait for download (1-5 minutes)
Name your eSIM if prompted
Configure as primary or secondary

For older MIUI versions:

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks
Look for eSIM or Manage eSIM
Tap Add
Scan QR code
Complete activation

Method 2: Manual Entry

If QR scanning doesn't work.

Steps:

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → eSIM
Tap Add eSIM
Select Enter details manually or Enter code
Enter SM-DP+ Address
Enter Activation Code
Tap Connect or Add
Wait for activation

Method 3: Carrier App

Some carriers support app-based eSIM activation.

Steps:

Download carrier app from appropriate store
Sign in to account
Navigate to eSIM section
Follow in-app prompts
eSIM activates automatically

Note: Carrier app support on Xiaomi is more limited than on Samsung or Apple devices.

Configuring Dual SIM on Xiaomi

With eSIM Active

After adding eSIM:

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks
Both SIMs displayed (eSIM + physical or both physical)

Set default SIM:

For calls:

Tap Default for calls
Select SIM or "Always ask"

For SMS:

Tap Default for SMS
Select default SIM

For data:

Tap Default for internet
Choose data SIM

Xiaomi Dual SIM Features

Smart dual SIM:

Some Xiaomi models offer intelligent SIM switching
May auto-switch based on signal strength
Check your model's specific features

SIM management:

Enable/disable individual SIMs
Set data limits per SIM
Configure roaming per SIM

Managing eSIM on Xiaomi

Viewing eSIM Status

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks
eSIM shown alongside physical SIM
Tap eSIM for details

Switching Data SIM

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks
Tap Default for internet
Select desired SIM

Enabling/Disabling eSIM

To turn off without deleting:

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks
Tap eSIM
Toggle off Enable or Use this SIM

Deleting eSIM

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks
Tap eSIM
Tap Delete or Remove
Confirm deletion

Warning: Need new QR code to reinstall.

Xiaomi eSIM for Travel

Challenges with Xiaomi eSIM for Travel

Regional limitations:

eSIM may not work outside purchase region
Carrier restrictions apply
Less predictable than iPhone/Samsung

Before relying on eSIM for travel:

Test eSIM setup before departure
Have backup plan (physical SIM or WiFi)
Verify your model supports eSIM in your region

When Xiaomi eSIM Works Well

If your Xiaomi supports eSIM:

Before departure:

Verify eSIM works on your device
Purchase Qonnect eSIM for destination
Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → Add eSIM
Scan QR code and install
Test activation
Disable until arrival

At destination:

Enable travel eSIM
Set as default for internet
Enable data roaming
Stay connected

Get Qonnect eSIM for Xiaomi →

Alternative: Physical SIM

Given Xiaomi's eSIM limitations, many travelers prefer:

Local physical SIM at destination
Xiaomi's dual SIM slots make this easy
More reliable than eSIM on some Xiaomi models

Troubleshooting Xiaomi eSIM Issues

eSIM Option Not Available

Most common cause: Your model/region doesn't support eSIM

Check:

Verify exact model number
Search for eSIM support in your region
Update to latest software version
Contact Xiaomi support for confirmation

eSIM Won't Activate

Software issues:

Update MIUI/HyperOS to latest
Clear cache: Settings → Apps → System apps → clear cache

QR code issues:

Verify code hasn't been used
Check expiration
Contact provider for new code

Connection issues:

Need stable WiFi or cellular
Try different network

No Service After Setup

Enable eSIM:

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks
Ensure eSIM is enabled

Check data settings:

Verify eSIM set for internet
Enable data roaming for travel eSIM

Network selection:

Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → Network
Try Automatic selection

Reset network:

Settings → Connection & sharing → Reset WiFi, mobile networks, & Bluetooth

Xiaomi Models Comparison

Flagship: Xiaomi 14 Series

Xiaomi 14 Ultra:

Best cameras
Premium build
eSIM in select regions
Top-tier performance

Xiaomi 14 Pro:

Flagship features
eSIM where available
Great value vs Ultra

Xiaomi 14:

Compact flagship
eSIM in select regions
Best balance of size/features

Foldable: Xiaomi Mix Fold 3

Unique foldable design
eSIM support (regional)
Large inner display
Premium pricing

Previous Generation: Xiaomi 13 Series

Still excellent performance
eSIM in select regions
Lower prices now
Good value option

Xiaomi vs Competitors: eSIM Support

Brand	eSIM Availability	Setup Ease	Regional Consistency
Apple	✅ Excellent	✅ Easy	✅ Very consistent
Samsung	✅ Very good	✅ Easy	✅ Consistent
Google Pixel	✅ Very good	✅ Easy	✅ Consistent
OnePlus	⚠️ Good	✅ Easy	⚠️ Variable
Xiaomi	⚠️ Limited	⚠️ Moderate	❌ Inconsistent

Xiaomi strengths: Great value, excellent hardware, competitive pricing Xiaomi eSIM weakness: Inconsistent regional support, less predictable

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Xiaomi support eSIM?

Some Xiaomi models support eSIM, but availability varies significantly by model and region. Check your specific device.

Why doesn't my Xiaomi have eSIM?

Xiaomi's eSIM rollout is gradual and region-dependent. Many models and regions don't yet have eSIM support.

Can I add eSIM to Xiaomi that doesn't show the option?

No. If eSIM option isn't in settings, your hardware/software doesn't support it. This can't be enabled manually.

Is Xiaomi eSIM reliable for travel?

It depends on your model and region. If eSIM works on your device, travel eSIMs should work. Test before traveling.

Should I buy Xiaomi if I need eSIM?

If eSIM is critical, consider Samsung or Google Pixel for more consistent support. If eSIM is nice-to-have, Xiaomi offers great value.

Does Xiaomi 14 have eSIM in the US?

Xiaomi has limited US presence. US-purchased Xiaomi devices may not have eSIM. Check specific model before purchase.

Conclusion

Xiaomi's eSIM support is a work in progress. While select flagship models in certain regions offer eSIM capability, the experience is less consistent than competitors like Apple, Samsung, or Google. If you have a Xiaomi with eSIM support, it works well—but verifying support before relying on it is essential.

Key takeaways:

eSIM available on select Xiaomi flagships (13/14 series, Mix Fold)
Regional availability varies significantly
Check your specific model and region for support
Dual physical SIM always available as alternative
Test eSIM before relying on it for travel
Great hardware value, but eSIM is inconsistent