If you're traveling and want to forget about roaming, the Xiaomi eSIM can be your best ally: a digital SIM that installs by scanning a QR code, without waiting for physical cards or visiting a store. But be aware, here's the unvarnished truth: not all Xiaomi phones have eSIM. It depends on the specific model and, very importantly, the region where your device was sold. In this guide, we'll tell you which Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO phones truly support it, how to check in two minutes, and how to activate it step-by-step on MIUI or HyperOS.
Which Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO support eSIM
Let's start with the important stuff to avoid unpleasant surprises. eSIM compatibility in the Xiaomi family is not universal: it's concentrated in the most recent high-end models and, furthermore, varies by market. Generally, Xiaomi phones in the numbered series (Xiaomi 12, 13, 14, and later) and some Ultra and Pro models usually include eSIM in their global versions. In contrast, many Redmi and POCO phones do not incorporate it, relying exclusively on two physical nano-SIM slots.
The regional factor is crucial: the same model reference may have eSIM in its European or global version and lack it in the version sold in China, India, or other markets. That's why two people with "the same Xiaomi" can have different experiences. The honest conclusion is clear: never assume your Xiaomi has eSIM just by the model name. The only reliable way is to check it yourself in the settings, as we explain below. If you want to delve deeper into the Android landscape, we have our guide on eSIM on Android and the general list of eSIM compatible phones.
| Xiaomi Model | eSIM? |
|---|---|
| Xiaomi 12 / 13 / 14 (Global version) | Usually yes |
| Recent Xiaomi Ultra / Pro (Global) | Frequently yes |
| Redmi Note (most ranges) | Usually no |
| POCO (most models) | Usually no |
| Any model China / India version | Often no |
Golden rule: the model name is a guide, but only Settings dictates. Always check compatibility on your own device before buying an eSIM.
How to check if your Xiaomi has eSIM
Before spending a single euro, take two minutes to confirm that your device supports eSIM. There are several simple and complementary ways to clear up any doubts with complete certainty:
- From Settings: go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks. If you see an option like "Add eSIM", "Download SIM", or "Use eSIM", your Xiaomi is compatible. If only physical slots appear, it's very likely it doesn't have it.
- With the EID code: open the phone app and dial *#06#. If your device displays, in addition to the IMEI, a long number labeled as EID, that indicates it has an integrated eSIM chip. If no EID appears, it almost certainly doesn't support it.
- Consult the official specifications: search for your exact model and region on the Xiaomi website and check the connectivity/SIM section.
These three methods will clear up any doubts without error. Remember that the result depends on your specific unit, so trust what you see on your own phone. If you have another brand, we also have specific guides for installing eSIM on Samsung Galaxy and for activating eSIM on iPhone.
How to install eSIM on your Xiaomi step-by-step
Once compatibility is confirmed, installing the eSIM is a matter of a minute. The process is almost identical in MIUI and HyperOS, Xiaomi's new layer, as both share the same menu logic. You will need the QR code sent by your provider (at PuraSim you receive it by email right after purchase) and an active internet connection, via Wi-Fi or data, to download the profile.
- Connect your Xiaomi to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks.
- Tap Add eSIM (may appear as "Download a new SIM").
- Choose to scan the QR code and point the camera at your eSIM's QR.
- Confirm the profile download and wait a few seconds for it to install.
- Assign a label to the line (e.g., "Travel") to distinguish it from your main SIM.
And that's it: your eSIM is now installed and coexisting with your physical card. A practical tip: install the profile before leaving home, with a good connection, and leave data activation for when you arrive at your destination. This way, you avoid rushing at the airport. If you want to better understand the technology behind it, take a look at what an eSIM is.
How to activate data upon arrival at your destination
Having the eSIM installed doesn't mean it's consuming data: you decide when it turns on. It's advisable to activate the data line just upon landing, so your travel plan starts counting when you truly need it and not before. The process is very direct from your Xiaomi's SIM panel.
- Go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks and select the travel eSIM.
- Toggle the eSIM line switch and mark it as SIM for mobile data.
- Make sure data roaming is activated on that eSIM (it's normal and necessary, as you're connecting to a foreign network with a local plan).
- If it doesn't connect automatically, check that the APN is correctly configured; your provider will give you the correct data.
Within seconds, you should see the local operator's coverage and have internet. A useful trick: leave your physical SIM active only for calls and SMS and use the eSIM exclusively for data. This way, you remain reachable on your usual number while browsing with a local rate. And yes, with PuraSim's eSIM, you can share data via hotspot with your laptop or tablet at no extra cost.
Common problems and how to solve them
Although the process usually goes smoothly, small hitches sometimes occur. The good news is that almost all of them have a quick solution. Here are the most common issues with an eSIM on Xiaomi and how to resolve them without stress:
- The QR doesn't scan: clean it well, increase the brightness of the screen where you're displaying it, or enter the code manually if your provider gives it to you.
- No coverage after activation: restart your phone, activate and deactivate airplane mode, and confirm that data roaming is turned on for the eSIM.
- Slow or intermittent internet: manually select the local operator's network from Settings > Mobile networks > Network operators.
- "Cannot add eSIM": verify that you have a Wi-Fi connection and that the profile hasn't already been installed on another device (each QR is usually single-use).
- eSIM disappeared after a reset: a factory reset erases installed eSIM profiles; you'll need to reinstall it.
If something isn't working, don't improvise by deleting the eSIM: many QRs can only be installed once. Before deleting anything, contact your provider's support.
At PuraSim, you have 24/7 Spanish support to help you out if you get stuck, no matter the time or where you are.
What to do if your Xiaomi is not compatible
Have you checked and your Xiaomi doesn't have eSIM? No problem, you have perfectly valid alternatives for staying connected while traveling without paying roaming fees. The lack of eSIM doesn't condemn you to abusive operator rates abroad, far from it.
- Use another compatible device: if you have a second mobile, tablet, or travel router with eSIM, you can activate the plan there and share data via hotspot with your Xiaomi.
- Physical travel SIM: some providers offer physical cards as an alternative to eSIM for devices without digital support.
- Local plan upon arrival: buying a local SIM at your destination is still an option, although it involves waiting in line and, sometimes, passport registration.
- Consider your next phone with eSIM: if you travel often, having eSIM in your next device will save you a lot of headaches.
Whatever your situation, the important thing is that a Xiaomi without eSIM is not an insurmountable problem. If you want to compare options based on your model, review our list of eSIM compatible phones again and choose your eSIM as soon as you know how you're going to connect.
Frequently asked questions
Do all Xiaomi phones have eSIM?
No. eSIM is concentrated in recent high-end models (such as the Xiaomi 12, 13, and 14 series in their global version), while many Redmi and POCO models do not include it. Furthermore, the regional version of the same model may or may not have it. Always check your specific unit in Settings or by dialing *#06# to see if the EID appears.
How do I know for sure if my Xiaomi supports eSIM?
The most reliable way is to go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks and look for the "Add eSIM" option. You can also dial *#06# in the phone app: if an EID number appears next to the IMEI, your device has an eSIM chip.
Can I use eSIM and my physical SIM simultaneously?
Yes. Compatible Xiaomi phones allow dual SIM functionality, so you can keep your physical SIM for calls and SMS and use the travel eSIM only for data. This is the ideal setup to remain reachable on your usual number while browsing with a local rate.
Does PuraSim's eSIM work on my Xiaomi?
It works on any eSIM-compatible Xiaomi. With PuraSim, you get coverage in 218 destinations, plans starting from $0.85, installation with QR in 1 minute, hotspot included, and 24/7 Spanish support. Just make sure your model supports eSIM first.
Will I lose the eSIM if I reset my phone?
Yes. A factory reset deletes installed eSIM profiles. If you're going to reset your Xiaomi, you'll need to reinstall the eSIM afterwards; keep in mind that many QR codes are single-use, so consult your provider beforehand.
Do I need internet to install the eSIM?
Yes, you need a Wi-Fi or data connection to download the eSIM profile. That's why it's advisable to install it before traveling, with a good connection at home, and leave data activation for when you arrive at your destination.
Conclusion
In summary: not all Xiaomi phones have eSIM, so the first step is always to check on your own device (Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks, or by dialing *#06# to see the EID). If your model is compatible, installing it is as simple as scanning a QR code and activating data upon arrival; and if it's not, you have alternatives like another device with a hotspot or a physical SIM. With PuraSim's eSIM, you travel connected in 218 destinations, from $0.85, with QR in 1 minute, hotspot included, no roaming, and 24/7 Spanish support. Choose your eSIM and start traveling connected. For specific questions about your model, also consult Xiaomi's official support.
