If you want to use your device abroad or are ready to change providers, you need an unlocked phone. Fortunately, Verizon’s unlock policy is simple and doesn’t even require you to do anything. Now let’s help you with the information you need on how to unlock Verizon phone.
We’ll walk you through the process of unlocking the Verizon device, the differences between locked and unlocked phones, and some reasons why you may want an unlocked phone.
Verizon is a CDMA provider and works with a different technology than AT&T and T-Mobile (GSM). However, you should still be able to unlock your Verizon 4G LTE device for AT&T or T-Mobile, as most phones are compatible with both operators’ LTE bands. This is not guaranteed. Please contact your new expected operator.
Although Sprint is also a CDMA network, you may not be able to integrate your phone into a Sprint plan: the operator (mainly) works in other frequency bands than Verizon. Previously, this meant that it was impossible to activate a non-sprint device on your network. Today, however, Sprint enables the selection of Verizon 4G LTE devices, including later iPhone models, in its BYOD plans. You should consult Sprint regarding the limitations of your specific device.
Why should you Unlock your Verizon Phone?
To Switch Carriers
The main reason for unlocking your Verizon phone is to hand it over to another carrier. For example, if you want to switch from Verizon to T-Mobile, you cannot simply buy a new T-Mobile tariff online and automatically activate your current Verizon phone for this tariff if your phone is still locked: your T-Mobile La SIM Card can’t work.
If you recently bought a new phone, you can also sell your old Verizon phone to someone else for use by a provider of your choice. Your locked Verizon phone must be unlocked before you can work on the buyer’s external network.
When you sell your phone, you don’t have to technically unlock it, but that’s a good thing, and you can probably sell it much faster.
To Travel Abroad
Another benefit of unlocking your Verizon phone: you can use your own device when travelling abroad. Instead of buying a cheap phone, you can exchange your Verizon SIM card for a global travel SIM card or a SIM card from a local operator in the country you are travelling to.
However, if you still have a locked Verizon device, you can still purchase one of the airline’s international flight schedules for your trip.
How Do I Unlock a Verizon Phone?
To unlock a Verizon cordless phone, just lift a finger. Verizon’s unlock policy automatically frees your phone from network exclusivity after 60 days.
To Easily Unlock Your Verizon Phone:
- Make sure your Verizon account is active.
- Activate your new device.
- Keep your account up to date for at least 60 days. This means that your bill is paid in full, the phone does not appear to be stolen or lost, and there is no suspicion of fraud on your device.
Here! Unlike other operators, you don’t need to call a phone number or enter the Verizon SIM unlock code to complete unlocking your device. Verizon manages the entire process for you.
Note: Verizon is the only provider that will automatically unlock your phone 60 days after purchase or activation.
Postpaid phones start waiting 60 days after purchase or, if you purchased your phone through a Verizon business partner, after activating your device. For prepaid phones, the 60-day period begins after activation.
Please note that your device will remain locked for 60 days, even if you purchased your phone in monthly instalments and paid in full before the grace period expired, or cancelled your Verizon service before the 60 days expired.
Most older Verizon phones (bought before July 2019) have already been sold as unlocked. However, if for any reason Verizon hasn’t unlocked your old phone yet, contact customer service. Separate unlocking requirements may apply to telephone devices in a box. Be sure to read the fine print.
Bringing an Unlocked Phone to Verizon
If you bring your own unlocked phone to Verizon, don’t worry: Verizon won’t lock your phone once you’ve set up your new account. Just make sure it’s compatible with the Verizon network. Otherwise, you have to buy one.
If you’re looking for a phone that works on the Verizon network, check out some of the most popular devices.
Military exemptions from the Verizon Unlock Policy
Verizon offers exemptions for military personnel moving to areas outside the Verizon coverage area. If this applies to you, you can request that the phone be unlocked during the mandatory 60-day lockout period. You may be asked to provide proof of your move/assignment.
What Is an Unlocked Phone?
A locked phone is connected to a single operator or “locked”. If you bought your phone through Verizon, it includes a Verizon SIM card that specifically connects your phone to the Verizon wireless network. Your phone will only work on another network if you are roaming.
However, with an unlocked mobile phone, you can exchange the SIM card for that of another operator (or even an international wireless network). This allows you to use your phone freely on another compatible network. This is useful if you want to take your own device to another mobile operator.
Conclusion
After the 60 days have passed, you can verify that Verizon has unlocked your phone.
You will find out if your Verizon phone is unlocked if you replace the SIM card with that of another provider. A “SIM not supported” message appears on a locked Verizon phone. This means that it is still connected to the Verizon network. If it is unlocked, this message will not appear.
If your phone has an eSIM card, i.e. an integrated SIM card instead of a replaceable SIM card, you can check the status of your phone’s IMEI number via another provider’s website (such as checking T-Mobile’s IMEI status) that your eSIM is unlocked and ready for use. If you just bought your Verizon phone, assume that it is still blocked on the network.