How to Set Up eSIM on Xiaomi Phones: Supported Models & Activation Steps

Xiaomi has joined other major smartphone brands in rolling out eSIM support across its latest devices. This shift makes connecting to mobile networks faster, simpler, and more flexible. With eSIM, Xiaomi users no longer need to handle tiny SIM trays or visit a store to switch carriers — activation happens entirely online.

An eSIM lets you manage multiple plans from different carriers on a single phone, making it perfect for anyone who juggles personal and business numbers or travels frequently. Whether you’re activating a new plan, switching carriers, or setting up a local data plan abroad, this guide walks you through every step.

Below, we’ll go over which Xiaomi phones support eSIM, how to activate it using several methods (QR code, carrier app, transfer, or manual setup), how to manage multiple profiles, and where to find the latest Circles.Life 4G and 5G eSIM plans.

What is an eSIM and Why Use It on Xiaomi Phones?

An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that’s built into your phone’s hardware. It works just like a physical SIM card but eliminates the need for a separate chip. Instead, your carrier’s plan information is downloaded directly onto your device.

Why Xiaomi users are switching to eSIM:

• Convenience: Activate a new mobile plan instantly without visiting a store or swapping cards.

• Flexibility: Store multiple eSIM profiles on one device and switch between them for work, travel, or different carriers.

• Eco-friendly: Reduces plastic waste and packaging associated with physical SIM cards.

• Perfect for frequent travelers: Add a local data plan when abroad while keeping your main number active.

• Future-ready: As Xiaomi continues to expand eSIM support, users can enjoy faster setup, better connectivity, and greater control.

Did you know? Many Xiaomi flagship phones now allow you to store up to eight eSIM profiles, giving you the freedom to change plans or carriers with just a few taps.

Check if Your Xiaomi Phone Supports eSIM

Before you begin, confirm that your Xiaomi device supports eSIM. While most recent Xiaomi phones include this feature, eSIM availability can vary depending on your model, software version, and region. See below for the Xiaomi eSIM phone list.

Xiaomi phones that support eSIM include:

• Xiaomi 13 Series: 13, 13 Pro, 13 Ultra

• Xiaomi MIX Fold & Fold 3

• Xiaomi 13T Series

• Xiaomi 14 Series (2024 and newer)

• Selected Redmi and POCO models (check your carrier’s support page for regional compatibility)

Xiaomi tablets with eSIM support:

• Xiaomi Pad 6 (LTE/5G variant)

• Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro (select regions)

To check if your Xiaomi phone supports eSIM:

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap Mobile networks.

3. Select Manage eSIM or SIM Manager.

4. If you see the option to Add eSIM or Scan QR Code, your device supports eSIM activation.

Note: In some regions, eSIM functionality may be disabled by default or restricted by carrier settings. If you don’t see the eSIM option, update your phone’s software and contact your carrier to confirm compatibility.

Did you know? Xiaomi has been gradually expanding eSIM functionality to include both flagship and mid-range devices, especially in regions like Singapore, where dual-SIM flexibility is in high demand.

How to Activate eSIM on Xiaomi

Using a QR Code from Your Carrier

The most common way to activate eSIM on Xiaomi phones is by scanning a QR code provided by your mobile carrier.

Step-by-step guide:

1. Open Settings → Mobile networks → Manage eSIM.

2. Tap Add eSIM.

3. Choose Scan QR code when prompted.

4. Use your camera to scan the QR code your carrier sent via email, SMS, or their official app.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation and activation.

6. Once finished, your eSIM plan will appear under Manage eSIM in Settings.

Before you start, make sure you have:

• A Xiaomi device compatible with eSIM 

• A valid eSIM-compatible plan from your carrier.

• A stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.

• The QR code issued by your carrier (check your email or carrier app).

• Your Xiaomi device charged above 30% to avoid interruptions.

Using Carrier App

If your mobile carrier offers an app, activating your eSIM through it is often the quickest and simplest method. Everything is handled within the app, so there’s no need to scan QR codes or enter manual details.

To activate via carrier app:

1. Download your carrier’s official app from the Google Play Store or Xiaomi GetApps store (for example, the Circles.Life app).

2. Log in using your registered mobile number or account credentials.

3. Find the option to Activate eSIM or Set Up eSIM.

4. Follow the app’s guided steps to install the eSIM profile on your phone.

5. Wait for activation to complete — your plan will appear automatically under Manage eSIM in Settings.

Before you start:

• Make sure your Xiaomi phone is updated to the latest MIUI or HyperOS version.

• Keep your carrier login details ready.

• Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or data connection during setup.

• Keep your phone charged above 30% to avoid interruptions.

• Some carriers may ask for a one-time password (OTP) to confirm your identity.

Transfer eSIM from Another Phone

If you’re upgrading to a new Xiaomi device, you can move your existing eSIM from your old phone instead of requesting a new QR code. The process is simple and fully digital.

Steps to transfer eSIM:

1. Place both phones side by side and connect them to Wi-Fi.

2. On your new Xiaomi device, go to Settings → Mobile networks → Manage eSIM → Add eSIM.

3. Choose Transfer from another device (or a similar option, depending on your region).

4. Follow the on-screen prompts to authorize the transfer from your old phone.

5. Wait for the process to complete — once done, your eSIM will appear under Manage eSIM on your new device.

Before you begin:

• Both devices must be eSIM-compatible and connected to a stable network.

• Check that your carrier supports eSIM transfers between devices.

• Ensure both phones are running the latest software version.

• Keep your old device nearby until the transfer finishes.

Manual eSIM Activation

If your carrier provides an activation code instead of a QR code or in-app setup, you can activate your eSIM manually by entering the details yourself. This option is often used by travelers or business users setting up secondary plans.

Steps to activate manually:

1. Open Settings → Mobile networks → Manage eSIM → Add eSIM.

2. Tap Enter details manually.

3. Input the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided by your carrier.

4. Tap Next to download and install the eSIM profile.

5. Once the process is complete, your plan will appear under Manage eSIM.

Before you start:

• Get your carrier’s activation details (SM-DP+ address and code).

• Make sure you have a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data).

• Confirm that your carrier supports eSIM activation in your region.

• Keep your phone charged above 30%.

Manage Multiple eSIMs on Xiaomi

Xiaomi allows users to store and manage several eSIM profiles on a single device, making it easy to switch between work, personal, or travel lines.

How eSIM management works:

• You can store multiple eSIM profiles on your Xiaomi device, but only one can be active at a time.

• Switching between profiles is quick and can be done directly in Manage eSIM.

• Each profile can be renamed for clarity — for example, “Work Line,” “Travel Plan,” or “Circles.Life.”

To switch or manage eSIM profiles:

1. Go to Settings → Mobile networks → Manage eSIM.

2. Select the eSIM profile you want to use.

3. Tap Activate to turn it on or Deactivate to turn it off.

4. Choose your preferred SIM for data, calls, and messages.

Tips for managing eSIMs efficiently:

• Keep only one active eSIM for mobile data to prevent network conflicts.

• Rename profiles with meaningful labels for quick identification.

• When traveling, disable your home eSIM to avoid roaming charges.

• Store backup QR codes or activation details safely if you frequently switch carriers.

Did you know? Some Xiaomi models let you enable Dual SIM standby, allowing one eSIM and one physical SIM to stay active at the same time.

Latest 4G & 5G Xiaomi eSIM Plans

Here’s a look at Circles.Life’s latest eSIM plans, available for Xiaomi phones with eSIM support. Each plan offers flexible data, fast connectivity, and easy activation.

Last updated: 16 October 2025

Fun fact: Circles.Life’s eSIM setup takes under five minutes (one of the fastest activation times in Singapore) and supports both prepaid and postpaid users.

Troubleshooting eSIM on Xiaomi Phones

Setting up eSIM is usually straightforward, but occasional issues can appear during activation. Most can be fixed with a few simple steps.

Common eSIM issues and quick fixes:

• QR code not scanning

  • Check that the QR code is clear and fully visible.

  • Increase screen brightness or enlarge the code on another device before scanning.

  • Restart your Xiaomi phone and retry.

• Activation failed

  • Verify that your eSIM plan is active and supported by your carrier.

  • Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi or data connection.

  • Delete the incomplete profile and try re-adding it.

• No network signal after activation

  • Go to Settings → Mobile networks → Network operators and refresh the list.

  • Toggle Airplane mode on and off to reconnect to the network.

  • If the issue persists, restart your phone.

If the eSIM download fails repeatedly, or activation doesn’t go through, contact your carrier’s customer support. They can issue a new QR code or check that your device’s IMEI is registered for eSIM.