How to unlock your iPhone on T-Mobile

You can always get your iPhone unlocked from T-Mobile if you want the ability to change SIM cards or carriers. Not all carriers will accept every unlocked phone, though, so if you already know which carrier you want to switch to, check with them to make sure your iPhone will work on their network.

What are the requirements to unlock on T-Mobile?

Like all service providers, T-Mobile has certain conditions, restrictions, and various other requirements you need to fulfill before you can request an unlock code for your iPhone.

Here's a rundown of T-Mobile's unlock requirements, as stated by T-Mobile:

  • You have to have bought your phone from T-Mobile.
  • Your phone can't be reported as lost, stolen, or blocked to T-Mobile.
  • Your account with T-Mobile cannot already be canceled and it must be in good standing (meaning that if you haven't paid your bill in three years, you're probably not getting unlocked).
  • You cannot have requested more than two unlock codes, per line of service, in the last year. So, if you have two phones in your name, you can't have asked for more than four unlock codes.
  • Your phone has to satisfy all of T-Mobile's unlocking terms and conditions.
  • T-Mobile can request proof of purchase and "certain other exceptions may apply."

Additional requirements for postpaid accounts

  • The phone must have been active for at least 40 days on the same line.
  • It must be paid in full.
  • The account balance must be zero, even for canceled accounts.

Additional requirements for prepaid accounts

  • The iPhone in question must have been active for at least one year.

OR

  • The account must have at least $100 in refills since it was opened.

How do I request an unlock code from T-Mobile?

Contacting T-Mobile customer service is the most convenient way for you to start the process. You also have the option of hitting up your nearest T-Mobile store and asking in-person.

T-Mobile—just like all the other carriers—says they reserve the right to deny any request based on their own discretion. So don't be completely surprised if they decide to decline your request.

Jaclyn Kilani
Contributor

Jaclyn Kilani is a content writer at iMore. She's a longtime Apple addict with a flair for creating (written works, design, photos; you name it!) on her devices. Jaclyn has also worked in the marketing sector for over 16 years, dabbling in a bit of everything from writing to graphic design and digital marketing. In her heart of hearts, however, she is a born writer and an avid reader who adores everything about the written word. Someday she may even churn out a book or two.

Throughout her career, Jaclyn has also developed something of an addiction to all things Apple. Her professional and personal life is enhanced by an ever-growing collection of iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, Apple Watches, and even AirTags. Luckily, this expensive habit is of great use to her work at iMore, where she writes with authority on Apple products and the accessories that go with them.