
Got a Xiaomi and wondering if it’ll play nice with an eSIM on your next trip? Smart move. eSIM support on Xiaomi varies by model and purchase region.
For the Xiaomi Redmi 11, support depends on the exact variant and market release, so it’s worth checking before you fly.
Whether you need a regional eSIM for country-hopping or a global eSIM for a longer multi-country run, many newer Xiaomi models are ready. The key is confirming your unit’s capability, then setting it up right.
What this guide covers:
- Which Xiaomi phones support eSIM in 2025, including notes on the Xiaomi Redmi 11 variants
- Why some China-market versions skip eSIM
- How to confirm eSIM on your specific device (settings check and carrier test)
- Setup steps that actually work, from QR code scan to activation
- When to choose a regional eSIM vs a global eSIM
- Laptop eSIM basics for tether-free work on the go
- Why providers like Airalo keep travel connectivity simple
TL;DR: Do a quick compatibility check now and avoid SIM drama later. Land, scan, connect, explore.
Why Don't Many Chinese Phones Support eSIM?
Chinese smartphone brands like Xiaomi have been slower to roll out eSIMs—not due to tech issues, but because of strict regulations and market preferences.
In China, SIMs are tightly tied to real-name registration, making regulators cautious about eSIM’s digital nature. For years, users preferred dual SIM trays to switch between numbers without relying on carriers.
And since eSIM adoption requires collaboration among phone makers, carriers, and regulators, progress stalled when one party lagged—especially in China.
But as Xiaomi expanded globally, where eSIM is expected, they started adding it to flagships like the 13 and 14 series. It’s less about capability, more about navigating red tape across regions.
The Updated eSIM-Supported Xiaomi Phones List as of 2025
Here's the lineup of Xiaomi phones that are eSIM-compatible:
- Xiaomi 12T Pro
- Xiaomi 13
- Xiaomi 13 Pro
- Xiaomi 13T
- Xiaomi 13T Pro
- Xiaomi 13 Lite
- Xiaomi 15
- Xiaomi 15 Ultra
- Xiaomi 14
- Xiaomi 14 Pro
- Xiaomi 14T
- Xiaomi 14T Pro
- Xiaomi Poco X7 (support varies by region)
- Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G (Japan models only)
- Redmi Note 13 Pro
- Redmi Note 13 Pro+
- Redmi Note 14 Pro
- Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G
- Redmi Note 14 Pro+
- Redmi Note 14 Pro+ 5G
Note: Most of these are flagships or premium mid-range models, and availability depends on where you purchased your device.
Localized differences in eSIM-compatibility
Chinese domestic versions and many Asian market variants typically don't include eSIM functionality, even if the model name matches.
For instance, your Xiaomi 14 bought in Shanghai won't have the same capabilities as one purchased in Berlin. The 12T Pro only supports eSIM in select regions, primarily Europe.
Please note that eSIM availability may also vary by carrier.
So, even if your Xiaomi model supports eSIM hardware-wise, double-check with your local carrier to ensure they offer eSIM services for your specific device.
Do Xiaomi Laptops Support eSIMs?
Short answer? Nope, not yet, and probably not soon.
While brands like Microsoft, HP, and Lenovo offer eSIM support in some laptops, Xiaomi’s Mi Notebook and RedmiBook series stick to Wi-Fi only—no built-in cellular modems.
eSIM in laptops is still niche, and most travellers just use their phones as hotspots anyway.
If you really need a direct cellular connection, consider using a USB dongle or a portable Wi-Fi router. Not the sleekest setup, but it works.
How to Check if My Xiaomi Device is eSIM Compatible?
Method 1: Using Your Phone’s Settings
The easiest method is through your phone's settings. Open your Settings app, navigate to "SIM cards & mobile networks" or "Connections" (the exact wording varies by MIUI version).
Then, look for options that mention "Add eSIM," "eSIM," or "Digital SIM." If you see these options, congratulations! Your phone supports eSIM technology.
If there's no mention of eSIM anywhere in your mobile network settings, your specific device variant probably doesn't support it, even if other versions of the same model do.
Method 2: Using EID
Another reliable verification method is checking your phone's EID (Embedded Identity Document) number.
Open your phone dialer and enter *#06#. This USSD code displays your device's IMEI numbers and, if your phone supports eSIM, it'll also show an EID number. No EID? No eSIM support.
You can also check in Settings > About phone > Status, where the EID should be listed alongside your IMEI numbers if your device is eSIM-capable.
This method works regardless of whether you've activated an eSIM profile yet, making it perfect for checking before you buy a plan.
How Do I Install and Set Up an eSIM on My Xiaomi Phone?
Step 1: Receive Your eSIM QR Code and Check Network Settings

Source: Xiaomi
After buying your eSIM, you’ll get a QR code via email or the provider’s app.
Connect to Wi‑Fi first—you’ll need it to download the profile.
Go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks, then tap “Add mobile plan” or “Add eSIM” (wording may vary by MIUI version).
Check that airplane mode is off and mobile data is on before continuing—these small steps prevent common activation issues.
Step 2: Scan the QR Code Provided by Your eSIM Provider

Tap “Add mobile plan” or “Add eSIM”, then choose “Scan QR code.” This opens your settings camera—hold it steady so the code fits clearly in frame. Boost screen brightness if needed.
Your phone will auto-detect the code and show the provider name and plan. Double-check it’s correct, then tap “Add” or “Confirm.” The eSIM profile downloads in 30 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on your Wi-Fi.
Step 3: Name Your eSIM and Configure Settings

After the eSIM profile downloads, you'll be asked to label it. Something like "Travel Data" or "Airalo eSIM" helps you remember which is which if you're running multiple SIMs. This naming is purely for your reference and doesn't affect functionality at all.
Next, you'll choose which SIM to use for mobile data, calls, and texts. If you’re travelling, you'll want to set your eSIM as the primary data connection.
Then keep your home SIM active for calls and messages (this helps you avoid racking up roaming charges).
In the SIM settings screen, you can toggle which SIM is used for mobile data by tapping "Mobile data" and selecting your newly installed eSIM. You can also set up "Dual SIM settings" to specify which number handles calls and messages.
Usually, you'll leave this on your home SIM unless you've purchased a plan with calling capabilities.
Don't worry about getting these settings perfect immediately; you can always adjust them later through the same settings menu.
Step 4: Enable Data Roaming and Turn On the eSIM

Source: Xiaomi
Here’s where people get tripped up: your eSIM won’t work unless data roaming is ON. Don’t worry, it won’t trigger extra charges since you’ve already paid for the plan.
Go to SIM cards & mobile networks > your eSIM, and toggle Data roaming and eSIM both ON. Some phones disable new SIMs by default.
Still no signal? Toggle aeroplane mode on and off to refresh the connection.
Step 5: Test Your Connection
Here are some quick steps for you to check:
- Do a quick test: Open a website you don’t usually visit to confirm you’re online (cached pages can be misleading).
- Use messaging apps: WhatsApp or Instagram work well—if messages send, you're connected.
- Check you're on eSIM, not Wi-Fi: Turn off Wi-Fi and reload the page to be sure.
- Monitor data use: Go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks > [your eSIM] to track usage.
- Troubleshoot connection: Restart your phone to fix most issues.
Still stuck? Check with your provider that your eSIM is active and valid for your current location.
Get the Best eSIM for Your Xiaomi Phone with Airalo
Let's discuss purchasing an eSIM that actually works. Airalo has become one of the most popular eSIM providers for travellers, and for good reason.

They offer coverage across over 200 countries and territories with data plans that won't drain your travel budget.
Travelling across Southeast Asia or through multiple European countries becomes easier when you have reliable data without the stress of swapping physical SIM cards.
Benefits of using eSIMs:
- Instant connection: Activate before takeoff.
- No SIM hassle: No shops, no tools.
- Stay reachable: Keep your number active.
- Pay less: 70–90% less than roaming.
- Top up fast: Add data in-app.
- Ditch roaming: Way cheaper than telco rates.
- Roam freely: One SIM for multiple countries.
- Travel light: No cards to lose.
For travellers, eSIMs are a game-changer.
Grab a local, regional, or global eSIM before flying and skip the SIM card hunt on arrival.
Whether you’re in Thailand, Indonesia, the Maldives, or the UAE, you’ll be booking taxis, messaging your hotel, and pulling up Google Maps the moment you’re through customs, right when it matters most.
FAQs About Setting Up eSIM-Compatibility of Xiaomi Phones
Which Xiaomi Models Are Compatible with eSIM?
The Xiaomi models that support eSIM include the 12T Pro (in select regions), the entire Xiaomi 13 series (13, 13 Pro, 13 Lite, 13 Ultra, 13T Pro), the Xiaomi 14 series (14, 14 Pro, 14 Ultra), and the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ in certain markets. However, ensure that your specific device supports eSIM by using the methods outlined earlier in this guide.
Is the Xiaomi 14 Compatible with eSIM?
Yes, the Xiaomi 14 supports eSIM technology, but with the usual caveat about regional variants. If you purchased your Xiaomi 14 in Europe or through international channels marketing it as a global version, you should have eSIM capability. If you're buying a Xiaomi 14, confirm with the seller before purchase or check the device yourself in the store using the EID verification method.
Can the Xiaomi 13 Use eSIM?
The Xiaomi 13 supports eSIM, along with the 13 Pro, 13 Lite, 13 Ultra, and 13T Pro variants (assuming you have the correct regional version). European models support eSIM, whereas Chinese versions don't. Some users have reported that even specific Asian market variants (sold in India, for example) lack eSIM functionality despite being international models.
Can the Xiaomi 11 Use eSIM?
Unfortunately, no. The Xiaomi 11 series, including the Xiaomi 11, 11 Pro, 11 Ultra, and 11T models, doesn't support eSIM in any regional variant. These phones were released before Xiaomi began implementing eSIM in their international models. You'll need to stick with traditional physical SIM cards or consider upgrading to a newer model from the Xiaomi 13 or 14 series.




