How do I install an eSIM on my Samsung Galaxy device?
Step-by-step instructions for adding an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy (One UI)
Installing an eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy is straightforward. Follow these steps to activate your GitSim eSIM profile for travel data while keeping your regular number for calls and texts.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that you download onto your phone. There’s no plastic card to insert. You scan a QR code or type in an activation code, and a new mobile plan is added to your device.
Data roaming means using the internet on your phone when you’re in another country. Turn data roaming ON for the GitSim eSIM (so it works abroad) and keep data roaming OFF for your original SIM (to avoid unexpected charges).
GitSim partners with local networks. On your phone you may see a local carrier name (not “GitSim”). That’s normal and your GitSim plan is still active.
Travel timeline
- Before your flight (at home, on Wi-Fi)
• Buy and install your GitSim eSIM on your Galaxy while you have good Wi-Fi.
• Don’t worry if it shows “Installing…” or “Activating…” at home — many travel eSIMs only finish connecting after you land. - Just before your flight
• Go to Settings → Connections → SIM card manager and turn ON the GitSim eSIM line.
• In Preferred SIMs, set Mobile data = GitSim.
• Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile networks and turn ON Data roaming for GitSim.
• Turn OFF data roaming (or data entirely) on your original SIM to prevent accidental charges. - During the trip
• Use your phone normally — apps, maps, browsing will use GitSim data.
• Check your usage on GitSim.com.
• Keep your original SIM for calls/SMS if you want to keep your usual number (data stays on GitSim). - After your trip / next trip
• GitSim eSIMs are generally one-time use. For your next trip, purchase a new eSIM.
• You can keep the old eSIM disabled; only delete it if support advises.
Before You Start
Make sure your Samsung Galaxy phone:
- Is unlocked (not carrier-locked).
- Is running the latest One UI / Android version.
- Has internet access via Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Supports eSIM (most recent Galaxy S / Note / Z Flip / Z Fold models do; e.g., S20 series and newer commonly support eSIM. Check your exact model).
Some older models or certain carrier variants may have eSIM disabled. If you don’t see Add mobile plan in SIM card manager, check your model/carrier or contact support.
Step-by-Step Installation (Samsung Galaxy • One UI)
Step 1: Open SIM Card Manager
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Go to Settings → Connections → SIM card manager.
Step 2: Add a Mobile Plan (eSIM)
- Tap Add mobile plan (or Add eSIM on some versions).
- When prompted how to add the plan, choose Scan carrier QR code.
Step 3: Activate Your eSIM
Option A: Scan QR Code (Recommended)
- Use the camera frame to scan your GitSim QR code.
- When the plan is detected, tap Download or Add to install.
Option B: Manual Activation
If scanning isn’t possible:
- Choose Other ways to add / Enter code instead.
- Enter the SM-DP+ address and Activation code provided by GitSim (and Confirmation code if given).
- Continue to download and add the plan.
QR scanning is fastest. Use manual entry if scanning isn’t possible.
Don’t worry if it shows “Installing…” or “Activating…” at home — many travel eSIMs only finish connecting after you land.
Step 4: Enable the eSIM Line
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Back in SIM card manager, ensure the toggle next to the new GitSim eSIM is ON (blue).
Step 5: Choose Which SIM Does What
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In SIM card manager → Preferred SIMs (or similar):
- Mobile data: set to Gitsim if you immediately want to use the eSIM. Choose your Primary if you want to use the eSIM later. You can switch anytime.
- Calls / Messages: keep your original SIM if you want to keep your usual number for calls/SMS.
Step 6: Turn On Data Roaming
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Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile networks.
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Select Data roaming and turn it ON.
Step 7: (Optional) Rename the eSIM
- In SIM card manager, tap the eSIM to edit its name/icon — e.g., “Travel” or “GitSim” for clarity.
Verify Connectivity (when you land)
- Turn off Airplane mode and wait a moment.
- You should see signal bars and possibly a local carrier name (that’s GitSim’s partner network).
- Turn off Wi-Fi and try loading a webpage to confirm mobile data works.
If it doesn’t connect after landing (quick fixes)
Try these in order:
- Restart your phone.
- Toggle Airplane mode ON for ~10 seconds, then OFF.
- In SIM card manager, turn the GitSim eSIM OFF and back ON.
- Confirm Preferred SIMs → Mobile data = GitSim, Data roaming = ON for GitSim, and roaming = OFF for your original SIM.
- Manual network selection:
- Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Network operators
- Turn Select automatically = OFF, pick a listed local network. (If unsure, set back to Automatic after trying.)
- If it still won’t activate, contact GitSim support: https://www.gitsim.com/en/help-center
Do not delete the eSIM during your trip if it seems stuck. Most QR codes are single-use and deleting can’t be undone without a new code.
Tips for Dual SIM usage on Galaxy
- You can keep both your primary SIM (calls/SMS) and GitSim eSIM (data) active.
- On some devices, mobile data may pause during a voice call on the other SIM. This is normal and varies by model.
- If you want zero chance of roaming charges for calls, you can temporarily toggle OFF your primary SIM in SIM card manager while traveling.
You’re all set!
Your GitSim eSIM is installed and ready to provide affordable data while traveling. Have a great trip!