How to turn on eSIM on Xiaomi: full instructions with photos and tips

Virtual SIM-The eSIM is gradually replacing the physical nano-SIM, offering Xiaomi users the convenience of switching between operators without replacing the chip. Where to find the activation menu, why the eSIM option isn't displayed, or how to move a number from a physical card, this article will take you through everything from checking your model's compatibility to step-by-step instructions tailored to the specifics of the device. MIUI 14/15.

It is important to understand that not all Xiaomi devices support eSIM: the technology is available mainly in flagships and models for the global market (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro or Redmi Note 12 Pro).+ 5G). Even if your smartphone is on the compatible list, some carriers (such as Tele2 in Russia) may restrict eSIM support for certain tariffs, and we will discuss in detail how to avoid common errors and what to do if eSIM is not activated.

1. Check eSIM support on your Xiaomi

Before you try to turn on eSIM, make sure your device supports it. Xiaomi is introducing the technology gradually, and even among the models of the same family there may be differences, POCO F5 The Pro has an eSIM and the basic version POCO F5 — no.

The official list of eSIM devices includes:

• 📱 Xiaomi 12T Pro, Xiaomi 13/13 Pro/13 Ultra, Xiaomi 14/14 Pro
• 📱 Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G, Redmi K60 Pro
• 📱 POCO F5 Pro, POCO X5 Pro 5G
• 📱 Black Shark 5 Pro (for gamers)

To find out if your smartphone supports eSIM:

1. Open the Settings app → The phone.
2. Find the Model line (for example, 2210132G Xiaomi 13 Pro).
3. Check the model in the GSMArena database (Network section) → SIM).

Note: Some models for the Chinese market (noted) CN The name may not have an eSIM even if the global version supports the technology. e.g. Xiaomi 13 CN vs Xiaomi 13 Global.

Preparation for activation of eSIM

Before setting up eSIM, follow a few mandatory steps:

Make sure that Xiaomi supports eSIM

Check the compatibility of the tariff with the operator

Connect to Wi-Fi or mobile internet

Have it on hand QR-code or data for activation from the operator

Backup of contacts (if you transfer the number)-->

The most reliable way to get an eSIM is to contact the operator, and most providers (e.g. MTS, Beeline, MegaFon) offer three options:

• 🔹 QR-code – scanned by the phone’s camera (the simplest method).
• 🔹 Manual data entry – the operator will send SMS parameterized (SM-DP+ Address, Activation Code).
• 🔹 Transfer from the physical SIM — requires a visit to the salon or a call in support.

If you are planning to use eSIM as a second option SIM-Card (for example, for work and personal calls), make sure your Xiaomi supports Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS). Otherwise, one of the SIM It will be turned off during a call on another.

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If the carrier doesn’t provide an eSIM for your tariff, try temporarily switching to a more expensive package – sometimes this will unlock the option.

3. Step-by-step instruction: how to turn on eSIM on Xiaomi

The activation process depends on the version MIUI. Below is a general instruction for MIUI 14/15 (It is relevant to most modern models).

Method 1: Through QR-code

1. Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Add a mobile network.
2. Select Download. SIM-Card (or Add eSIM to new versions).
3. Click Next and select Scan QR-code.
4. Put the camera on QR-If the scan is not working, try to enable High-Resolution Mode in the camera settings.
5. Confirm the installation of the eSIM profile, wait until the download is completed (it can take up to 5 minutes).

Method 2: Manual data entry

If you don't. QR-code, but there is data to activate:

1. In the same menu (Add mobile network) select Enter data manually.
2. Fill in the fields: SM-DP+ Address (e.g. esim.mts.com) Activation Code (unique key from the operator) Confirmation Code (if required)

Connect

Critical detail: if after activation eSIM does not catch the network, restart the smartphone and check the settings APN (Path: Settings → SIM-map → [select] → Access points (APN)). Often, operators do not transmit APN automatically, and you have to manually adjust it.

4. Set up eSIM after activation

Once you have successfully installed the eSIM, you need to set your network priorities and call settings, which is especially important if you use two. SIM-maps (physical) + eSIM).

Go to Settings. → SIM-Maps and mobile networks and follow the following steps:

• 📶 Network priority: select 4G/5G eSIM if the operator supports (e.g. MegaFon offers) 5G eSIM in some regions).
• 📞 Calls: in the Selection section SIM-Call cards, indicate which one SIM default.
• 🌐 Mobile Internet: Enable data transfer for eSIM if you plan to use it for the Internet.
• 📩 SMS: tune in SIM to send messages (important for bank notifications).

If the eSIM is not detected after a reboot, try:

1. Remove and re-add eSIM profile.
2. Reset network settings (Settings) → System system → Reset → Resetting Wi-Fi, Mobile Network and Bluetooth).
3. Update the firmware to the latest version of MIUI.

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If the eSIM is no longer working after the update MIUI, Check for beta firmware – sometimes newer versions contain bugs with eSIM module.

Typical problems and their solutions

Even with the right setup, Xiaomi users are faced with eSIM errors.

Problem 1: “I was unable to download an eSIM profile”

Causes and solutions:

• 🔴 No Internet: Connect to Wi-Fi or turn on mobile data on another SIM.
• 🔴 Wrong. QR-Code: Request a new code from the operator - the old code may have expired.
• 🔴 Operator restriction: some tariffs (for example, "For laptop" from MTS) do not support eSIM.

Problem 2: eSIM does not catch the network

What to do:

1. Check if Flight Mode is on (sometimes it turns off eSIM selectively).
2. Make sure that the eSIM is activated in the operator’s personal account.
3. Try to manually select the network: Settings → SIM-map → [your eSIM] → Choice of network → Manual scanning.

Problem 3: You can't remove the eSIM

If the Remove option is inactive:

• 🔄 Reboot the phone.
• 🔄 Disable eSIM in operator settings (sometimes the ISP is blocking).
• 🔄 Reset your network settings (see instructions above).

⚠️ Note: if you delete your eSIM profile, you can only restore it through the operator. QR-activation code or data in a secure location (e.g., Google Drive or Mi Cloud).

6. Transfer of the number from the physical SIM eSIM

Many users want to completely abandon the physical SIM You have to move the number. It depends on the operator:

Common algorithm:

1. Make sure your tariff supports eSIM (check with the operator).
2. Visit the communication salon or contact support to request a transfer.
3. Get a new one. QR-code or data to activate eSIM (old) SIM will be deactivated).
4. Activate eSIM on Xiaomi according to the instructions above.

⚠️ Note: when you transfer a number to eSIM, some services (for example, MTS Cashback or Beeline Bonus) may be reset.

7. Use of eSIM abroad (roaming)

One of the main advantages of eSIM is the ease of connecting local fares for travel. Xiaomi can install up to 5 eSIM profiles (but only 1 is active at the same time).

Option 1: Local eSIM

Services like Airalo, Holafly or Nomad sell virtual SIM For example, Airalo's eSIM for Thailand is ~$5 for 1 GB for 7 days:

1. Download the service app (e.g. Airalo from Google Play).
2. Choose the country and the tariff, pay for the purchase.
3. Follow the instructions in the eSIM installation application (usually: QR-code).
4. Activate eSIM upon arrival in the country (importantly, some profiles start counting down from activation, not purchase).

Option 2: Roaming from a Russian operator

If you are planning to use your carrier’s eSIM abroad:

• 🌍 Make sure that roaming is enabled in your personal account.
• 🌍 Check fares – some operators block eSIM in roaming (e.g. Tele2).
• 🌍 Set up. APN Roaming (usually the operator sends a message) SMS parameterized).

Comparison of roaming costs (on the example of Turkey, 1 GB):

8. Alternative ways to use eSIM on Xiaomi

In addition to the main number, the eSIM on Xiaomi can be used to:

• 📱 Number two: for work and personal calls, for example. Set up a redirect to Settings → SIM-map → Call forwarding.
• 🌐 Internet for tablet: if your Xiaomi Pad supports eSIM, you can distribute the Internet from a smartphone (but it is easier to install eSIM directly in the tablet).
• 🔒 Anonymous Calls: Services like eSIM Plus offer temporary numbers to register with instant messengers.
• 🎮 Gaming accounts: Some games (such as Genshin Impact) require local number binding – eSIM makes it easier to get a virtual number.

To install multiple eSIMs (e.g. for work and travel):

1. Set the first eSIM profile (main number).
2. Add a second profile through Settings → SIM-map → Add a mobile network.
3. Switch the active profile in the same menu (only one is active at the same time).

⚠️ Note: If you use eSIM for banking applications (such as SberBank Online or Tinkoff), make sure the number is linked to eSIM, not to a physical one. SIM. Some banks block access when changing type SIM-map.

FAQ: Frequent questions about eSIM on Xiaomi