How to transfer contacts with SIM-Xiaomi phone cards: all ways 2026

Transfer of contacts with SIM-Xiaomi smartphone cards are a challenge that every user faces when buying a new device or changing operator. Despite the apparent simplicity, the process can cause complications, from the lack of visibility of contacts in the import menu to copying errors. In this article, we will analyze all the current methods of transfer for modern versions. MIUI 12–15, including nuances for different models (Redmi Note 12, POCO X5, Xiaomi 13T etc.), and the solution of typical problems.

Xiaomi phones are a feature of close integration with Google services and its own Mi Account ecosystem, which means that transferred contacts can not only be stored in the device memory, but also synced with the cloud for backup. However, this approach has pitfalls, such as duplication of records or loss of formatting (combined numbers, no photos), we will tell you how to avoid these problems and choose the best method depending on your situation.

Preparation for transfer: what to check before import

Before you start moving your contacts, make sure your SIM-Xiaomi map and phone ready for procedure:

• 📱 Compatibility SIM-Cards: Make sure your SIM Supports pin storage (usually Mini-SIM, Micro-SIM or Nano-SIM cards with an old-style chip). Modern eSIMs and some new-generation Nano-SIMs may not have this feature.
• 🔋 Battery charge: The import process takes 2 to 10 minutes depending on the number of contacts. Recommended charge level is at least 30% to avoid interruption.
• 📶 Operator network: In rare cases, to access contacts on the SIM requires active connection to the network of the mobile operator (for example, MTS or Beeline old rates.
• 📱 Version. MIUI: V MIUI 14+ Contact import menu moved to Contacts section → Settings → Contact management in older versions (e.g, MIUI (12) the path may differ.

If you are using duality SIM-Card (two physical cards or eSIM) + Nano-SIM, it is important to choose the right slot. By default, Xiaomi offers to import contacts only from Slot 1. To transfer data from the second slot, you will have to temporarily change the cards or use alternative methods (about them - below).

⚠️ Attention: If yours SIM-The card was released after 2020, the probability of storing contacts on it is minimal. Most operators (including Tele2 and Yota) have stopped supporting this feature in new chips. → Three dots (menu) → Imports/Exports → S SIM-If the option is inactive, no contacts on the map.

Method 1: Standard import via the Contact Menu (MIUI 12–15)

It’s the easiest and most recommended method for most users.It works on all modern Xiaomi smartphones, including Redmi. 10C, POCO F4 Xiaomi 12 Lite. Instructions are relevant for MIUI 12–15:

1. Open the Contacts app (a icon with a person's silhouette).
2. Tap the three-point menu (⋮) top-right.
3. Select Settings → Contact Management → Import / Export Contacts.
4. Press Import with SIM-map.
5. Select a SIM slot (if there are several) and mark the contacts to import (or click Select All).
6. Specify the place of conservation: 📱 Device – contacts will only be stored in the phone’s memory (without synchronization). ☁️ Google Account – Contacts synced to your Gmail (recommended for backups). 🔄 Mi Account – sync with Xiaomi’s cloud (useful if you’re using other brand devices).

OK.

Once the process is complete, contacts will appear in the main list, and if some records have not been imported (e.g., with Cyrillic characters), try repeating the procedure or using alternative methods in the following sections.

Backup of contacts (export to VCF)

Battery charge ≥ 30%

SIM-The card is inserted into Slot 1 (priority)

Power saving mode is disabled (may interrupt the process)-->

Method 2: Import via the phone’s “Settings” (alternative path)

If for some reason the Contacts menu is not available or does not display the import option, you can use an alternative route through system settings, which is especially useful for devices with customized firmware (for example, Xiaomi.eu or Global ROM):

1. Open the settings (cog icon).
2. Go to the Appendix section → Contacts → Warehouse.
3. Slip on Import/Export Contacts.
4. Select Import with SIM-Maps and follow the instructions on the screen.

In some versions of MIUI (e.g. MIUI 13 for POCO), this path may be different. If you don't find the Warehouse section, try:

Settings → Memory → Additional → Import of contacts

⚠️ Attention: On devices with MIUI for Russia (e.g. Redmi) 9A or POCO M4 Pro: the import option may be hidden due to localization, in which case use Method 3 (Annex) SIM Toolkit) or Method 4 (manual input).

Method 3: Use SIM Toolkit (for old ones) SIM-map)

If you SIM-The card is issued before 2018, it can be installed on the application SIM Toolkit (or) STK), This is a method that is suitable for MTS or Beeline or MegaFon users with old-style rates:

1. Find the SIM Toolkit icon on the home screen or in the application menu (usually blue or green with the operator logo).
2. Open the application and select the Phone Book or Contacts section.
3. Slip on the option to copy everything or Transfer to the phone.
4. Confirm the action and wait for the process to be completed.

The advantage of this method is to save additional contact fields (such as second numbers or notes) that can be lost with standard import. However, the SIM Toolkit does not work on all Xiaomi devices. For example, on the Xiaomi 11T Pro or Redmi Note 11 Pro+, this application may be missing due to firmware optimization.

Method 4: Manual input and export to VCF (for a small number of contacts)

If you SIM-With less than 20 contacts in the card, the most reliable way is manual input, which guarantees 100% accuracy without loss of data:

1. Open the Contacts app and click + Add Contact.
2. Enter the data from SIM-hand-held maps to speed up: 📋 Use the Copy/Insert function for repeating fields (e.g., city code). 🔍 Enable T9 prompts in keyboard settings (Gboard or Mi Keyboard) to type names faster. 📎 Attach photos to contacts right away – it will save time later.

VCF

Contacts → Settings → Contact Management → Export → In the VCF file

This method is also useful if you want to filter out unnecessary contacts before transferring, for example, you can skip old or duplicate numbers.

Settings → Special features → Separate screen

Open Contacts in one part of the screen and Notes with numbers in another.

💡

If you need to move your contacts to SIM on Xiaomi without losing Cyrillic characters, change the system language to English before importing (Settings) → Additionally. → Language and input. This helps to avoid encoding errors in the MIUI 13–14.

Solving the Problem: Why Contacts Are Not Imported

Even if the instructions are followed correctly, Xiaomi users may encounter import errors.

If neither method worked, the last chance is to use third-party apps like SIM Card Contacts or Copy to SIM Card from Google Play, which support advanced import/export features but require permission to access contacts.

💡

Before using third-party contact apps, be sure to check reviews and rankings on Google Play.Some utilities (especially low-ranking ones) may collect personal data.

Synchronization and backup after transfer

After successfully importing your contacts to Xiaomi, it’s important to keep them safe. Here are three steps to secure backup:

1. Synchronization with Google: 🔗 Go to Settings. → Accounts. → Google → Synchronize contacts. Turn on the switch and wait until the process is complete.

Advantage: Contacts will be available on any device with your Gmail.

Export to VCF file

Contacts → Settings → Contact Management → Export → In the VCF file

Save the file to Downloads or Google Drive.

Local copy on Xiaomi

• 📁 Copy the file. VCF folder MIUI/Backup/Contacts (accessible through the conductor).
• 🔄 Enable automatic backup in Settings → The phone. → Backup.