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A Device Unlock enables T-Mobile equipment to use a non-T-Mobile SIM card to connect to a different international or domestic network. This may also be known as a SIM unlock, network unlock, or carrier unlock.

On this page:

 

What is a Device Unlock

  • Device lock status determines what networks a device can use to make calls, send messages, and use data.
    • Locked devices can only be used on the network of the wireless provider that sold the device.
    • Unlocked devices can be used with any carrier that supports its network type.
  • Not all devices are compatible with every mobile network, unlocked devices may work differently depending on the carrier’s network.
  • Traveling internationally? Many T-Mobile plans include benefits and service when traveling internationally. See International Roaming services to learn more.
  • A device unlock is not a security feature, for security locks see:
  • For more information on T-Mobile's approach to device unlocking, see Device Unlock Policy.

 

Check unlock status & eligibility

  1. Log into your MyT-Mobile account using a web browser.
    Note: This option is not currently available on the T-Mobile app.
  2. Click Account from the top left of the screen.
  3. Select the line of service using the device.
  4. Click Check device unlock status under the Device details to check your status:
    • Device unlocked: You're good to go! Your device can be used with compatible SIM cards. If you have an iPhone without another SIM, follow these steps.
    • Device locked: This device can only be used on the T-Mobile Network. You'll see if it's eligible to be unlocked under the device image. See Eligibility & requirements below.

 

Eligibility & requirements

Contact us if you:

  • You received a warranty or device protection replacement device and your original device was eligible to be unlocked.
  • You are military personal deployed overseas and your account is in good standing. Deployment papers can be provided to our Care department to process a device unlock.

All other requests must meet the below account and device requirements to be unlocked:

Requirement Learn more
The device must have been purchased from T-Mobile
  • T-Mobile can only unlock devices sold by T-Mobile.
  • Certain device types are sold unlocked by T-Mobile, including
    • Apple iPads
    • Apple watches
    • Samsung watches
  • If you have an unlocked device from another carrier you would like to use with T-Mobile service, see our  Bring your own device (BYOD) guide.
  • To unlock a non-T-Mobile device, contact the original retailer or carrier, including devices purchased from Sprint or Metro by T-Mobile.
The device must be paid in full.
  • Devices with JUMP! On Demand and active Equipment Installment Program (EIP) payment plans are not eligible to be unlocked.
  • You can check your balances and make payments on MyT-Mobile.
    • JUMP! On Demand customers may be eligible to buy out the lease and own the device.
    • EIP balances must be paid in full.
The device IMEI must be unblocked
  • Devices with an IMEI block cannot be used on any mobile network.
  • Example reasons an IMEI may be blocked include:
    • The device was reported lost or stolen.
    • The device is past due or delinquent on its lease or installment payment plan.
Postpaid accounts only
  • The device must have been used for at least 40 days on your line of service.
  • Your account must be in good standing.
    • If your balance is past due, we can help you make a payment.
    • If the T-Mobile account associated with the device is cancelled, the balance on the account must be zero.
Prepaid accounts only
  • Each active line can only receive two device unlocks within a 12 month period.
  • At least 365 days must have passed since the device was activated on the T-Mobile network. 

    Exception:     T-Mobile prepaid devices are eligible to be unlocked after $100 in refills have been applied to each active line on the account after the device was purchased.
    • Refills made before the device purchase do not apply.
    • All active lines on the account must have at least $100 in refills.
    • For example, to unlock one device on an account with 4 lines requires $400 of refills since the requested device first-use date (4 lines X $100 = $400).

 

Android On-Device unlock

Follow the steps below if you received a notification that your device is eligible to be unlocked. If the notification mentions an unlock code, Contact us so we can provide it.

  1. Make sure you are connected to the T-Mobile network or Wi-Fi.
  2. Swipe up on your Home screen to open the Apps tray and follow the steps below:
    • Samsung
      • Newer devices: Settings > Connections > More Connection Settings > Network Unlock
      • Older devices: Use the Device Unlock app pre-installed on your device. If you do not have this app, your device is unlocked or it is on a 2019 or newer OS.
    • OnePlus (6T and newer): Settings >Wi-Fi & internet > SIM & network, then choose Advanced or Network Unlock
    • T-Mobile REVVLRY: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > Advanced > Network Unlock
    • Other manufacturers: Choose your device on the Devices page, then click the Security drop-down to find Mobile Device Unlock steps.
  3. Select Permanent Unlock
  4. Wait while the device completes the unlock.
  5. Restart the device.
  6. Contact us if:
    • You do not see the apps or settings listed for your device, as it may require an unlock code.
    • You meet the eligibility requirements but cannot unlock your device.
    • You have a device not listed above.

 

Contact us 

  1. Verify your device meets the unlock requirements.
  2. Have your device IMEI ready. You can find this on your MyT-Mobile or dial *#06# from your device.
  3. Contact your Team of Experts by dialing 1-877-746-0909

 

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