How to install an eSIM on a Huawei phone

This is the main difference from other brands: most Huawei phones don't have an eSIM, or only have one in certain markets. Support is limited to some Mate and P series models sold in particular regions, and the same model can have eSIM in one country but not in another. So the phone's name alone isn't enough to go on.

The reliable way to check is on the phone itself:

1. Open Settings > Mobile network > SIM management (on some versions, "SIM card management").
2. If you see an option to add an eSIM or an eSIM section, your phone supports it.
3. You can double-check by dialling *#06#: if an EID number appears, the phone has an eSIM.

If you can't find either, your Huawei isn't compatible and we'd advise against buying a plan. There's more on brands and models in our guide to eSIM-compatible phones.

The phone also needs to be unlocked. A Huawei bought from a carrier may be locked and refuse eSIMs from other providers.

Many recent Huawei phones use Huawei Mobile Services instead of Google services. That's not a problem for the eSIM: installation happens in the system settings, not in a Google app, so it works exactly the same. You can read the order email in any mail app and open the order page in the phone's browser. Your customer area on the website also lets you check your order and, on many plans, top up your data.

After payment you'll receive an email with a QR code and the manual installation details (SM-DP+ address and activation code). The same information is on your order page. Do this on a stable Wi-Fi connection and, ideally, at home before you travel: the plan doesn't start until the first connection to a network at your destination, and you have 180 days from purchase to install an unused eSIM.

With the QR code (easiest if your order is open on another screen):

1. Go to Settings > Mobile network > SIM management.
2. Tap the option to add an eSIM.
3. Choose to scan a code and point the camera at the QR code from your order.
4. Confirm the download and wait for it to finish.

With the manual details (if your phone is the only device you have):

1. On the same add-eSIM screen, look for the option to enter the code manually.
2. Copy the SM-DP+ address and activation code exactly as they appear on your order.
3. Confirm and wait for the profile to download.

• Line name. The profile shows up as "Carrier". In SIM management you can edit the card's name; call it "Startia" so you can tell it apart.
• SIM for mobile data. In SIM management, set the eSIM as the default SIM for mobile data. Your physical SIM can stay on for calls and texts: our eSIM is data-only, with no phone number, although messaging and internet calling apps work fine.
• Data roaming on for the eSIM. It's usually under Settings > Mobile network > Mobile data > Data roaming. You need it because the eSIM connects to partner networks abroad.
• Data roaming off for your home SIM, to avoid charges from your usual provider. We explain why in how roaming works.

Switch the eSIM on if you'd left it off, check it's the data SIM and wait a few seconds. That's when the plan's validity begins. If you haven't picked a plan yet, you can browse them all in our list of destinations.

• There's no option to add an eSIM. Your model, or the version sold in your region, doesn't have eSIM. Check the compatibility guide; if you've bought a plan and haven't installed it, you can ask for a refund.
• No service. Check that the eSIM is switched on, set as the data SIM and has roaming enabled. Toggle Airplane mode on and off to force a fresh network search.
• Signal but no internet. Restart the phone. If your order gives a specific APN, add it under Settings > Mobile network > Mobile data > Access Point Names (APN) with the eSIM selected. Usually this isn't needed.
• Stuck on a slow network. Under Settings > Mobile network > Mobile data > Network operator, turn off automatic selection and try another network.
• Download error. Switch Wi-Fi networks and try again. If it says the code has already been used, contact us before going further.

Don't delete the eSIM to try reinstalling it: a deleted eSIM usually can't be reinstalled with the same code. If you get stuck, email esim-contact@startia.es or open a ticket from your order; we provide support in English and Spanish.

Do all Huawei phones support eSIM?

No. Only some Mate and P series models, and not in every market. Check under Settings > Mobile network > SIM management.

Does the eSIM work on a Huawei without Google?

Yes. The eSIM is installed from the system settings and doesn't rely on Google services.

What if I bought the eSIM and my Huawei isn't compatible?

If you haven't installed it, you can request a refund by emailing esim-contact@startia.es.

Can I use the eSIM on a Huawei watch or tablet?

This product is designed for phones. Smartwatches aren't supported.

Do I need to set up the APN?

Hardly ever. Only if your order gives a specific APN and you have signal but no internet.