Setting up an eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy S26 can be quick and convenient, but you first need the correct eSIM QR code from your mobile carrier. Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM is downloaded directly to your phone, making it easier to switch plans or activate a new number without inserting a SIM.
Download an eSIM QR Code for Samsung Galaxy S26. How to get your eSIM QR code, download and install it on your Samsung Galaxy S26, and troubleshoot common activation issues. Whether you’re using Airtel, Jio, Vi, or another supported carrier, these steps will help you get connected with less hassle.
Before you can install an eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy S26, you need one critical thing — the eSIM QR code from your carrier. This QR code is the digital key that contains your carrier profile, authentication credentials, and number assignment. Without it, your Galaxy S26 has no way to connect to your carrier’s network via eSIM.
This guide covers exactly how to get, download, save, and use eSIM QR codes from every major Indian carrier — Jio, Airtel, and Vi — plus international eSIM providers for travel. Whether you’ve never seen a QR code request before or your QR code expired and you need a new one, this is your complete reference.
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What Is an eSIM QR Code and Why Do You Need It?
An eSIM QR code is a machine-readable code generated by your carrier that contains your eSIM profile data in encoded form. When your Samsung Galaxy S26 scans this code, it:
- Connects to your carrier’s eSIM provisioning server
- Downloads your carrier profile (number, authentication keys, network settings)
- Installs the profile onto your Galaxy S26’s eSIM chip
- Activates your connection to the carrier network
Key facts about eSIM QR codes:
One-time use: Most carrier eSIM QR codes can only be scanned once. Once successfully installed on a device, the QR code becomes invalid — it cannot be reused on another device or rescanned if installation fails midway.
Expiry: eSIM QR codes expire if not used within a set window — typically 24–72 hours for most Indian carriers. An expired QR code shows an error when scanned and requires a new one.
Device-specific: Some carriers generate QR codes tied to a specific device’s EID (Embedded Identity Document) number. These codes only work on the device they were generated for.
Secure: eSIM QR codes are one-time-use cryptographic tokens. Even if someone photographs your QR code before you scan it, they cannot use it — the code is tied to your account and EID.
How to Find Your Galaxy S26 EID Number (Required for QR Code Request)
Before requesting an eSIM QR code from any carrier, you need your Galaxy S26’s EID number. Most carriers require this when generating your QR code.
Method 1 — Dial Code (Fastest):
- Open the Phone app on Galaxy S26
- Dial *#06#
- Device information screen appears
- Look for EID — a 32-digit number
- Long-press the EID number → Copy ✅
Method 2 — Settings:
- Open Settings
- Tap About Phone
- Tap Status Information
- Scroll to find EID
- Long press → Copy ✅
Method 3 — SIM Manager:
- Open Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Tap Add eSIM
- EID displayed on the Add eSIM screen
- Note this number before proceeding ✅
Save your EID: Screenshot the EID screen or note it in your contacts. You’ll need it every time you request a new eSIM QR code from any carrier.
How to Get and Download Jio eSIM QR Code for Galaxy S26
Jio offers the most seamless eSIM QR code generation process among Indian carriers — fully digital, no store visit required for most users.
Method 1 — MyJio App (Recommended)
Step 1: Open MyJio App
Download MyJio from the Play Store if not already installed. Log in with your Jio number and password.
Step 2: Navigate to the eSIM Section
- Tap your profile icon (top right corner)
- Select SIM Services
- Tap Get eSIM (new Jio number) or Convert to eSIM (existing Jio number moving to eSIM)
Step 3: Enter Device Details
- Enter your Galaxy S26’s EID number — paste from clipboard if copied earlier
- Enter your Galaxy S26’s IMEI number — also found via *#06#
- Tap Next
Step 4: Complete KYC Verification
- Enter your Aadhaar number or scan Aadhaar QR code
- Verify via OTP sent to your registered Jio number
- Accept terms and conditions
- Tap Submit
Step 5: Receive QR Code
After successful submission:
- Jio sends eSIM QR code to your registered email address
- Processing time: 2–4 hours typically
- You also receive SMS confirmation when the QR code is ready
- Check your spam folder if the QR code email doesn’t arrive in your inbox
Step 6: Download and Save QR Code
When the QR code email arrives:
- Open the email on any device (phone, laptop, or another phone)
- The QR code appears as an image in the email body
- Download the QR code image — tap and hold on mobile, right-click save on desktop
- Save to a location you can easily access:
- Google Photos (backed up automatically) ✅
- Downloads folder
- Screenshot the email for backup
Important: Save the QR code image before scanning — if scanning fails, you’ll need the image to retry without requesting a new code.
Method 2 — Jio Website
Step 1: Open jio.com in Chrome on any device
Step 2: Log in with your Jio credentials
Step 3: Go to My Account → My Plans → eSIM
Step 4: Click Generate eSIM QR Code
Step 5: Enter EID and IMEI numbers
Step 6: Complete OTP verification
Step 7: QR code is displayed on screen and emailed simultaneously
Step 8: Screenshot the on-screen QR code immediately as backup ✅
Method 3 — Jio Customer Care (Call 199)
Step 1: Call 199 from your registered Jio number
Step 2: Request eSIM QR code generation
Step 3: Provide:
- Your Jio account details
- Galaxy S26 EID number
- Galaxy S26 IMEI number
Step 4: Complete OTP verification over call
Step 5: Agent processes request — QR code sent to registered email within 2–4 hours
Method 4 — Jio Store Visit
Step 1: Visit the nearest Jio Store with:
- Original Aadhaar card
- Samsung Galaxy S26 (powered on)
- Your Jio number details
Step 2: Request an eSIM QR code at the counter
Step 3: Store staff verifies identity and device
Step 4: QR code generated and displayed on staff terminal immediately
Step 5: Scan QR code in SIM Manager while at store — staff can assist ✅
Advantage of store visit: Immediate QR code generation and assisted scanning — no waiting for email delivery.
How to Get and Download Airtel eSIM QR Code for Galaxy S26
Airtel’s eSIM QR code process is fully digital through the Airtel Thanks app — including video KYC, which eliminates the need for store visits.
Method 1 — Airtel Thanks App (Recommended)
Step 1: Open Airtel Thanks App
Download from the Play Store. Log in with your Airtel mobile number.
Step 2: Navigate to eSIM Section
- Tap My Account (bottom navigation)
- Tap Manage SIM
- Select Switch to eSIM or Get New eSIM
Step 3: Enter Device EID
- Enter your Galaxy S26’s EID number
- Airtel Thanks app may auto-detect your device — confirm details
- Tap Continue
Step 4: Complete Video KYC
- Airtel initiates a live video call with a KYC agent
- Duration: 3–5 minutes
- During video KYC:
- Show your Aadhaar card clearly to the camera
- Show your face clearly (match with Aadhaar photo)
- Answer basic verification questions from the agent
- Agent approves KYC in real time
Step 5: Receive QR Code
After video KYC approval:
- QR code sent to registered email within 15–30 minutes
- Push notification sent via Airtel Thanks app
- Some users receive QR code directly in Airtel Thanks app under SIM Management section
Step 6: Download and Save QR Code
- Open QR code email
- Download QR code image
- Save to Google Photos or Downloads
- Screenshot email as backup ✅
Method 2 — SMS Request
Step 1: Send SMS from your Airtel number:
- Message: eSIM [your email address]
- Example: eSIM chaitanyapradhan049gmail.com
- Send to: 121
Step 2: Receive confirmation SMS from Airtel
Step 3: Complete video KYC via the link sent to the provided email
Step 4: QR code delivered to email after KYC approval (15–30 minutes)
Method 3 — Airtel Website
Step 1: Go to airtel.in → My Account → Log in
Step 2: Navigate to My Account → SIM Management → eSIM
Step 3: Click Get eSIM QR Code
Step 4: Enter Galaxy S26 EID number
Step 5: Complete online KYC
Step 6: QR code generated and emailed ✅
Method 4 — Airtel Store Visit
Step 1: Visit the nearest Airtel Store with:
- Photo ID (Aadhaar card preferred)
- Samsung Galaxy S26
- Your Airtel account details
Step 2: Request an eSIM QR code at the customer service counter
Step 3: In-store KYC completed by staff (5–10 minutes)
Step 4: QR code displayed on store terminal immediately
Step 5: Scan directly in SIM Manager while at store ✅
How to Get and Download Vi eSIM QR Code for Galaxy S26
Vi’s eSIM QR code process is less seamless than Jio or Airtel — store visits are sometimes required depending on your circle.
Method 1 — Vi App
Step 1: Download the Vi app from the Play Store
Step 2: Log in with your Vi mobile number
Step 3: Go to My Account → Manage SIM → Convert to eSIM
Step 4: Enter Galaxy S26 EID number
Step 5: Complete KYC verification (method varies by circle):
- Some circles: OTP-based verification
- Others: Video KYC required
- Some circles: Store visit required
Step 6: QR code sent to registered email within 4–6 hours ✅
Method 2 — Vi Customer Care (Call 199)
Step 1: Call 199 from your Vi number
Step 2: Request eSIM QR code
Step 3: Provide EID and IMEI numbers
Step 4: Complete OTP verification
Step 5: Agent processes — QR code sent to registered email within 4–6 hours
Method 3 — Vi Store Visit (Recommended for Vi)
Given Vi’s less consistent app-based eSIM support:
Step 1: Visit the nearest Vi Store with:
- Aadhaar card
- Samsung Galaxy S26
- Vi account details
Step 2: Request eSIM at the counter
Step 3: In-store KYC (10–15 minutes)
Step 4: QR code generated immediately
Step 5: Scan in SIM Manager at store with staff assistance ✅
How to Get eSIM QR Code from International Providers for Galaxy S26
For Indian travelers needing international eSIM QR codes:
Airalo (Most Popular for Indian Travelers)
Step 1: Download the Airalo app from the Play Store
Step 2: Create an account and log in
Step 3: Search for your destination country
Step 4: Select a data plan (prices start from ₹500)
Step 5: Purchase the plan using a credit card or UPI (via PayPal)
Step 6: QR code delivered instantly in the Airalo app and email ✅
Downloading Airalo QR code:
- Open the Airalo app → My eSIMs
- Tap purchased plan
- QR code displayed on screen
- Tap Download to save QR code image
- QR code also emailed to registered address
Holafly
Step 1: Go to esim.holafly.com in Chrome
Step 2: Select destination and plan
Step 3: Purchase with credit card
Step 4: QR code delivered to email instantly ✅
Downloading Holafly QR code:
- Open confirmation email
- QR code displayed as image in email
- Download image or screenshot for backup
- Also accessible via Holafly customer dashboard
Maya Mobile (Asia-Focused)
Step 1: Go to mayamobile.com
Step 2: Select Asian destination plan
Step 3: Purchase
Step 4: QR code delivered to email within 15 minutes ✅
How to Scan and Install QR Code on Galaxy S26
Once you have your eSIM QR code downloaded, installing it on your Galaxy S26 takes under 5 minutes.
Step-by-Step QR Code Scanning
Step 1: Ensure a stable internet connection
- Wi-Fi recommended for eSIM profile download
- Minimum 1Mbps connection speed
Step 2: Open SIM Manager
- Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Tap Add eSIM
- Tap Scan QR Code
- Galaxy S26 camera activates
Step 3: Display QR Code for Scanning
Option A — Scan from another device:
- Open QR code image on another phone, tablet, or laptop
- Increase screen brightness to maximum
- Hold device steady 15–20cm from Galaxy S26 camera
- QR code recognized in 2–5 seconds ✅
Option B — Scan from printed QR code:
- Print QR code on paper (black and white printing works)
- Ensure print is clear and undistorted
- Good lighting required for printed QR scanning
Option C — Scan from same device (if QR in email/gallery):
- Cannot scan a QR code from the same device’s screen using its own camera
- Download QR code to another device first
- OR use method below for same-device scanning
Same-device scanning workaround:
If QR code is only available on your Galaxy S26:
- Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM
- Instead of Scan QR Code, tap Enter Activation Code
- Check your carrier email — some carriers provide both QR code AND activation code
- Enter activation code manually ✅
Step 4: Confirm Profile Details
After successful QR scan:
- Carrier profile details appear on screen
- Verify:
- Carrier name matches your carrier
- Phone number matches your number
- Plan details are correct
- Tap Confirm to proceed
Step 5: Download eSIM Profile
- Galaxy S26 connects to carrier eSIM server
- Profile downloads — 30–90 seconds with a stable connection
- Progress indicator shows download status
- “Profile installed successfully” message appears ✅
Step 6: Activate eSIM
- Tap Activate after download completes
- Galaxy S26 registers with carrier network
- Signal bars appear for new carrier ✅
- eSIM is now active and ready to use
QR Code Troubleshooting — Common Problems and Fixes
Problem: QR Code Not Recognized by Camera
Possible causes and fixes:
Camera lens smudged:
- Clean Galaxy S26 camera lens with a microfiber cloth
- Retry scanning
QR code displayed too small:
- Zoom in on QR code image on source device
- Increase source device screen brightness to maximum
- Move devices closer together (10–15cm optimal distance)
QR code image quality poor:
- If downloaded from email, redownload — compression may have degraded quality
- Request a new QR code from carrier if image appears pixelated
Insufficient lighting:
- Move to a well-lit area
- Add flashlight illumination on printed QR codes
Retry after restart:
- Exit SIM Manager
- Restart Galaxy S26
- Return to SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code
Problem: QR Code Expired
Cause: Jio QR codes expire in 24 hours, Airtel in 48–72 hours, Vi in 24 hours.
Fix:
- Do not attempt to scan an expired QR code — it will fail
- Request new QR code from carrier:
- Jio: MyJio app → SIM Services → Get eSIM (re-request)
- Airtel: Airtel Thanks app → Manage SIM (re-request, may require video KYC again)
- Vi: Call 199 or visit store
- New QR code delivered via email
- Scan within validity window ✅
Prevention: Request QR code only when you’re ready to scan immediately — don’t request days in advance.
Problem: “This QR Code Has Already Been Used”
Cause: QR code is single-use — already scanned on this or another device.
Fix:
- If installation succeeded on your Galaxy S26 — check SIM Manager; eSIM may already be installed
- If installation failed midway — QR code consumed but profile not installed
- Contact carrier to request new QR code explaining the failed installation scenario:
- Jio: 199 or MyJio app
- Airtel: 121 or Airtel Thanks app
- Carriers generally issue replacement QR codes for failed installations at no charge
Problem: eSIM Profile Download Fails After QR Scan
Possible causes:
Weak internet connection:
- Switch to a stronger Wi-Fi network
- Ensure a minimum 1Mbps stable connection
- Retry download
VPN interfering:
- Disable any active VPN before eSIM installation
- VPNs redirect traffic and can interfere with carrier server connections
- Enable VPN again after successful eSIM installation
Carrier server issues:
- Try at a different time — carrier servers sometimes experience load during peak hours
- Check carrier’s social media for any service disruption announcements
Device software outdated:
- Check for One UI updates: Settings → Software Update
- Install latest update and retry
Problem: QR Code Email Not Received from Carrier
Check spam/junk folder:
Most carrier eSIM emails are flagged as promotional — check spam before requesting a new code.
Verify registered email:
Confirm your registered email address with the carrier:
- Jio: MyJio app → Profile → Account Details
- Airtel: Airtel Thanks app → My Account → Profile
Add carrier to safe senders:
Add jio.com, airtel. in, and vi .in email domains to your contacts or safe sender list.
Request resend:
- Jio: Call 199 and request QR code resend to email
- Airtel: Airtel Thanks app → Manage SIM → Resend QR Code
- Vi: Call 199 for resend request
Alternative delivery:
Ask carrier to send QR code via SMS as activation code instead of email — some carriers support this.
Problem: QR Code Works But Wrong Number/Plan Displayed
Cause: Carrier generated QR code for wrong account or wrong plan.
Fix:
- Do NOT tap Confirm if displayed details are incorrect
- Exit SIM Manager without confirming
- Contact carrier immediately
- Explain incorrect details in QR code
- Request corrected QR code generation ✅
Saving and Managing eSIM QR Codes — Best Practices
Always save before scanning:
Download QR code image to Google Photos immediately upon receipt. If scanning fails for any reason, you have the image available for retry without requesting a new code.
Store in multiple locations:
- Google Photos (auto-backed up)
- Email folder (already there from carrier)
- Screenshot saved to phone gallery
Note QR code validity period:
Create a calendar reminder for QR code expiry if you’re not scanning immediately. Jio: 24 hours, Airtel: 48–72 hours, Vi: 24 hours, International providers: 24–72 hours typically.
Never share QR codes:
eSIM QR codes are tied to your account and number. Sharing them with others allows installation on their device — effectively giving them your carrier credentials.
Delete after successful installation:
After the eSIM is successfully installed and active, delete the QR code image from your devices. A used QR code is worthless for reinstallation — and leaving carrier credential images around is unnecessary security exposure.
Keep carrier contact details handy:
Save carrier customer care numbers — Jio: 199, Airtel: 121, Vi: 199 — alongside your EID number. Quick access when requesting new QR codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I download an eSIM QR code for Samsung Galaxy S26 from Jio?
Open the MyJio app → Profile → SIM Services → Get eSIM. Enter your Galaxy S26’s EID and IMEI numbers, complete KYC verification, and Jio sends the QR code to your registered email within 2–4 hours.
Q: What is the EID number on Samsung Galaxy S26 and where do I find it?
EID (Embedded Identity Document) is your Galaxy S26’s unique 32-digit eSIM identifier. Find it by dialing *#06# or going to Settings → About Phone → Status Information → EID.
Q: How long is a Jio eSIM QR code valid?
Jio eSIM QR codes are typically valid for 24 hours from generation. Scan immediately after receiving — don’t wait. Request a new code if it expires.
Q: Can I reuse an eSIM QR code if scanning fails?
Most carrier QR codes are single-use — once scanned (even if installation fails), the code is consumed. Contact your carrier to request a replacement QR code for failed installations.
Q: How do I get my Airtel eSIM QR code without visiting a store?
Use the Airtel Thanks app → My Account → Manage SIM → Switch to eSIM. Complete video KYC (3–5 minutes) and receive QR code via email within 15–30 minutes — no store visit required.
Q: Can I scan the eSIM QR code from the same Galaxy S26 I’m installing it on?
No — you can’t use a phone’s camera to scan a QR code displayed on the same phone’s screen. Display the QR code on another device (laptop, another phone) and scan with your Galaxy S26. Alternatively, use the manual activation code if your carrier provides one.
Q: What should I do if my eSIM QR code email doesn’t arrive from Jio or Airtel?
Check your spam folder first. Verify your registered email address in the carrier app. Wait the full processing time (Jio: 4 hours, Airtel: 30 minutes). Contact carrier customer care to resend if still not received.
Q: How do I download an international eSIM QR code for travel on Galaxy S26?
Purchase a plan from Airalo, Holafly, or a similar provider. QR code is delivered instantly to your email and in-app. Save the QR code image before traveling — install on Galaxy S26 via Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code.
Q: Does Samsung Galaxy S26 support multiple eSIM QR codes?
Yes — Galaxy S26 stores up to 10–12 eSIM profiles. Each profile requires its own QR code during installation. Only one eSIM can be active at a time alongside your physical SIM.
Q: Is there a charge for getting a Jio or Airtel eSIM QR code?
Existing customers converting from a physical SIM to eSIM generally get QR codes free. New connections may have standard activation charges. Replacement QR codes for failed installations are typically issued free.
Conclusion
Getting your eSIM QR code for Samsung Galaxy S26 is the critical first step in the entire eSIM setup process — and each Indian carrier has a slightly different process for generating and delivering it.
For Jio users, the MyJio app is the fastest and most convenient — request online, receive within 4 hours, scan and activate. For Airtel users, the Airtel Thanks app with video KYC delivers QR codes in under 30 minutes without visiting a store. For Vi users, the store visit remains the most reliable option given inconsistent app-based support across circles.
The golden rule: save your QR code image immediately upon receipt and scan within the validity window. These two simple steps prevent 90% of the QR code problems Galaxy S26 users encounter during eSIM installation.