eSIM, Device Compatibility

Samsung eSIM Compatibility Guide

Check if your Samsung phone is eSIM compatible and get instant connectivity with Nomad eSIM in over 200 destinations.

Samsung smartphones are some of the most popular travel companions in the world: powerful cameras, fast processors, reliable GPS, and now, widespread Samsung eSIM support. If you're not yet familiar with the technology, eSIM is a digital SIM built directly into your device -- no plastic card, no physical SIM swapping, and no hunting for a local store when you land.

If your Samsung device is eSIM-compatible, you can install a Nomad eSIM in minutes and connect instantly the moment your plane lands.

Samsung sits alongside Google Pixel and OnePlus as one of the Android brands with the broadest eSIM rollout — though compatibility still depends on your exact model and region, as this guide explains.

Samsung Phones That Support eSIM: Complete Compatibility List

Nomad eSIM has compiled a list of Samsung models that support eSIM. If your device appears there, it is likely compatible with Nomad eSIM. However, Samsung eSIM support is still region dependent. All Samsung phones sold in China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan do not support eSIM, even if the global version of the same model does.

Galaxy S Series (S26, S25, S24, S23, S22, S21, S20) eSIM Compatibility

Galaxy S26, S26+, S26 Ultra
Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, S25 Edge, S25 FE
Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra. S24 FE
Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE
Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra
Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra
Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra

Galaxy Z Fold Series eSIM Compatibility

Galaxy Z Fold 7
Galaxy Z Fold 6
Galaxy Z Fold 5
Galaxy Z Fold 4
Galaxy Z Fold 3
Galaxy Z Fold 2
Galaxy Fold

Galaxy Z Flip Series eSIM Compatibility

Galaxy Z Flip 7, Flip 7 FE
Galaxy Z Flip 6
Galaxy Z Flip 5
Galaxy Z Flip 4
Galaxy Z Flip 3
Galaxy Z Flip

Galaxy Note Series eSIM Compatibility

Galaxy Note 20
Galaxy Note 20 Ultra

Galaxy A Series eSIM Compatibility (Region Dependent)

Galaxy A56 5G
Galaxy A55 5G
Galaxy A36

Samsung Tablets and Laptops with eSIM Support

eSIM technology isn’t limited to Samsung smartphones. Several Galaxy tablets and laptops now support eSIM, offering travelers and professionals the same flexibility and instant connectivity as phones. Here’s an updated list of Samsung non-phone devices with eSIM support:

Galaxy Tab Series:

Tab S9
Tab S9+
Tab S9 Ultra
Tab S9 FE
Tab S9 FE+
Tab S11 5G
Tab S11 Ultra 5G
Tab S10 FE 5G

Note: As with phones, eSIM support for tablets and laptops may vary by region and carrier. Always check the specific model number and market before purchasing or activating an eSIM.

For a comprehensive list of Samsung devices that are eSIM compatible, check out Nomad eSIM’s Supported Devices list.

Comparing devices? See our compatibility guides for other device types:

eSIM Support for Fan Edition (FE) and A-Series Devices

Samsung’s Fan Edition (FE) and A-series devices have selective eSIM support that often depends on the model and market. Here’s what you need to know:

Fan Edition (FE)

S23 FE: eSIM supported in most global and European models; not supported in China and Hong Kong variants.
Other FE models (S20 FE, S21 FE, etc.): Generally do not support eSIM.

A-Series:

A54 5G and newer (A55, A35, A36, A56): eSIM support is available in select markets (Europe, South Korea, Australia), but not in all regions.
Older or entry-level A-series (A14, A13, etc.): Do not support eSIM.

Always check the specific model number and region before assuming eSIM compatibility on FE and A-series devices.

Common Carrier and Market Restrictions Affecting Samsung eSIM Compatibility

Even if your Samsung device supports eSIM, certain carrier or market restrictions may impact your ability to use it. Here are key limitations to watch for:

Devices from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan do not support eSIM (dual physical SIM only)
US carrier-locked devices (especially from Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) may restrict eSIM activation
Some South Korean models may not include eSIM unless specifically listed (e.g., S24, S23, Z Fold5/4, Z Flip5/4, A54 5G)
Carrier-issued or subsidized models may have eSIM disabled by default.

Always check with your carrier and confirm your device’s model/CSC code before purchasing an eSIM plan. If you're weighing up eSIM against keeping a physical SIM, the eSIM vs physical SIM guide walks through the practical differences for travelers.

By understanding these restrictions, you can avoid surprises and ensure a smooth eSIM experience on your Samsung device.

3 Simple Steps to Check if Your Samsung Phone Supports eSIM

Before installing a Nomad eSIM, confirm your device’s eSIM capability. Samsung support varies widely by model and region, so a quick check ensures smooth activation. Not sure whether your device qualifies for a travel eSIM at all? The travel eSIM eligibility guide covers the full set of requirements beyond just hardware.

1. Look for the “Add eSIM” Option in Samsung SIM Manager

Go to Settings
Tap Connections
Go to SIM Manager
Check for Add eSIM or Add mobile plan

If this option appears, your device supports eSIM. If it does not appear, your phone may be a regional version without eSIM hardware.

2. Verify Your Samsung Model Number

Go to Settings
Select About Phone, and locate your Model Number.

Your phone model number tells you which regional version of the device you own, which is important since eSIM availability can vary by market.

3. Check Your Samsung Phone Specifications

You can confirm eSIM-compatibility by checking the model information included with your device.

Locate the printed user manual or quick start guide that came with your phone box.
Find the specifications section, usually near the back or in the connectivity chapter.
Look for a line that lists SIM configuration, such as: Nano SIM + eSIM (this means your device supports eSIM) OR Nano SIM only (this means your device does not support eSIM)
You can also check the model number printed on your device box and compare it against the typical Samsung model lines known to support eSIM.

How To Set Up Nomad eSIM on Your Samsung Phone

Once you confirm that your Samsung phone supports eSIM, activating it is quick and simple. You can purchase and install your Nomad eSIM before you travel as most plans let you buy days or weeks ahead and choose when to activate, so there's no rush at the airport.

1. Add a Nomad eSIM Through Samsung SIM Manager

The easiest option is to add your eSIM directly through Settings.

Open Settings
Tap Connections
Select SIM Manager
Choose Add eSIM
Follow the on-screen instructions to download and activate your plan

This is the most direct method and works smoothly on most eSIM-supported Samsung phones.

2. Scan a QR Code to Install Samsung eSIM

Most travel eSIM providers, including Nomad eSIM, offer activation through a QR code.

Open Settings
Go to Connections
Select SIM Manager
Tap Add eSIM
Choose Scan QR Code and scan the QR code provided in the Nomad eSIM app or email
Complete the setup by selecting your preferred SIM for mobile data

If your QR code does not scan, you can install your Nomad eSIM using the activation details included with your plan. Here’s how:

In Add eSIM, select Enter activation code
Enter the SM-DP+ server address and the activation code provided by Nomad eSIM
Complete installation following the on-screen prompts

This backup method is helpful if your camera cannot scan the QR code or if you prefer entering details manually.

3. Install Your eSIM Using the Nomad App

Nomad eSIM also allows you to install your eSIM directly from the app.

Open the Nomad eSIM app
Select your purchased plan
Tap Install eSIM
Follow the guided instructions

This method offers the smoothest setup experience, especially for travelers installing an eSIM right before a trip.

Not sure which plan to pick? The eSIM provider buying guide covers what to look for, and if you're only traveling for a few days, the best eSIM plans for short trips is worth a read before you commit.

Samsung’s eSIM Support Roadmap: Future-Proofing Your Device

Samsung has shown a clear commitment to expanding eSIM support across its product lines. Starting with flagship Galaxy S and Z series, eSIM compatibility now extends to select Note, A-series, and tablet devices. Each new generation brings broader eSIM adoption, making it likely that future Galaxy models—including upcoming S, Z, and A series—will include eSIM as a standard feature.

This ongoing trend means that choosing a recent Samsung device is a smart investment for travelers who want seamless, long-term connectivity options. If you're considering making the switch and want a full picture of what to expect, the benefits of switching to eSIM is a useful read alongside the eSIM pros and cons overview for a balanced view.

Nomad eSIM currently covers 200+ destinations. You can read independent Nomad eSIM reviews from travelers who've put it to the test across Samsung devices and other platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does my Samsung phone support eSIM?

Only certain Samsung models support eSIM. You need to check SIM Manager for the Add eSIM option or review Samsung’s official specifications.

Why doesn’t my Samsung device show Add eSIM?

Your Samsung phone may be a regional variant without eSIM hardware. This is common among models from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and some carrier versions from the United States or South Korea.

Do unlocked Samsung phones always support eSIM?

Not always. Even if your device is unlocked, it might still be a variant that does not contain eSIM hardware.

Can Samsung store multiple eSIM profiles?

Yes. Most Samsung phones that support eSIM can store several profiles, although only one can be active at a time.

Does dual SIM mean my Samsung phone can support eSIM?

No. Dual SIM on Samsung phones doesn’t always include eSIM. Some models offer dual SIM through two physical SIM slots, rather than a combination of one physical SIM + one eSIM. Always check your specific Samsung model’s regional version to confirm whether eSIM is supported.

Can I use a travel eSIM on my Samsung while keeping my home SIM active?

Yes, and this is the most popular setup for international travelers. Keep your existing physical SIM in the tray for calls and SMS (so your home number stays reachable), and run Nomad eSIM as the data line while abroad. You can assign which SIM handles data in Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Mobile Data. Disable data roaming on your home SIM to avoid unexpected charges.

When should I install my Samsung eSIM, before or after I arrive?

Before. You can buy and install a Nomad eSIM in advance and set the activation date for when you land. This means you have a working data connection the moment you clear arrivals, making it useful for maps, transport apps, and messaging. Installation only requires a Wi-Fi connection, so doing it at home before you travel is the smoothest option.

Is Nomad eSIM compatible with all Samsung models that support eSIM?

Nomad eSIM works with all Samsung devices that support standard eSIM provisioning. This covers all the models listed in this guide. The only exceptions are carrier-locked devices where the carrier has blocked third-party eSIM installation. If you're unsure, run a quick check on the Nomad eSIM supported devices page before purchasing.

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Cheking eSIM compatibility on other devices?

Android eSIM compatibility guide (full overview across all major Android brands)
iPhone eSIM compatibility guide
OnePlus eSIM compatibility guide
OPPO eSIM compatibility guide

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