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How to unlock an AT&T iPhone ​

Steps to check eligibility, request an AT&T device unlock for an iPhone, and use the phone with another carrier or a local SIM.

Overview ​

  • This guide explains how to request an AT&T device unlock for an iPhone, from checking eligibility to first use with a new SIM.
  • Goal: use an AT&T iPhone with another carrier, such as a Japanese SIM or a travel eSIM.
  • AT&T unlocks eligible devices for free, so a paid third-party unlock service is not needed.
  • Target audience: AT&T postpaid and AT&T Prepaid customers who want to switch carriers or move abroad.

Important: An unlock removes only the carrier lock.

It does not cancel the line, clear an installment balance, or remove the Activation Lock tied to an Apple Account.

Eligibility requirements ​

AT&T unlocks a device only when it meets every requirement below:

  • Device paid in full - the installment plan or contract has been paid off, and the installment balance is zero.
  • Account in good standing - the account has no past due balance.
  • Not reported lost or stolen - the device was never reported lost, stolen, or involved in fraud.
  • Active service - a postpaid device must have been active for at least 60 days, and an AT&T Prepaid device must have been active for at least 6 months.

Tip: Eligible Apple devices on an AT&T wireless plan unlock automatically once they meet these requirements.

Check the device unlock status page with your IMEI before you submit a request.

Preparations ​

Gather your account details ​

Have this information ready before you start:

  • AT&T account number and the account security PIN or password.
  • Device IMEI number - the unique identifier for the iPhone.
  • Proof of purchase - the receipt or invoice, in case AT&T asks you to confirm ownership.

Find the IMEI on your iPhone ​

Use either method:

  • Open Settings → General → About, then scroll down to IMEI.
  • Open the Phone app and dial *#06# to display the IMEI on screen.

Step 1: Submit the unlock request ​

  1. Go to the AT&T device unlock portal.
  2. Select Unlock your device, then review the eligibility rules and instructions.
  3. Enter the IMEI number of the iPhone.
  4. Enter your full name, email address, and phone number.
  5. Enter your AT&T account number and the account security PIN or password.
  6. Select Request unlock to submit the form.

Check every field before you submit. A typo in the IMEI or account number is the most common cause of a rejected request.

Step 2: Confirm the request from your email ​

AT&T sends a confirmation email with an unlock request number and a link to finish the submission.

Open the link within 24 hours. AT&T cancels the request after that, and you need to start over.

Step 3: Wait for AT&T to process the request ​

Most requests are approved within 2 business days, and some are approved within minutes. AT&T emails you when the request is approved or denied.

  • If the request is approved, the email includes the unlock instructions for your device.
  • If the request is denied, the email states the reason, such as an unpaid balance or a device that is not yet eligible. Fix the issue, then submit a new request.

You can also check progress on the device unlock status page with the IMEI and the unlock request number.

Step 4: Activate the iPhone on the new SIM ​

  1. Power off the iPhone.
  2. Remove the AT&T SIM card, then insert the SIM card from the new carrier. For an eSIM, scan the QR code from the new carrier instead.
  3. Power on the iPhone and follow the setup steps.
  4. Connect to Wi-Fi when prompted.
  5. Place a test call and load a web page over mobile data.

The unlock is complete once the iPhone registers on the new network. A "SIM not supported" message means the carrier lock is still in place.

Additional information ​

  • Erasing the iPhone is optional. The unlock applies to the device, not to your data. If you are giving the phone to someone else, open Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone → Erase All Content and Settings first.
  • Keep the unlock confirmation email. It holds the request number, which AT&T support asks for when a request needs follow-up.
  • Check band support before you buy a local plan. An unlocked iPhone still needs the frequency bands that the new carrier uses.

Troubleshooting ​

  • The new SIM shows "SIM not supported". Wait a few hours after the approval email, then restart the iPhone. The unlock can take longer to reach the device than the email suggests.
  • The iPhone does not connect after a restart. Open Settings → General → About and wait a few seconds for a carrier settings update prompt, then select Update.
  • The status page reports the request as pending for more than 2 business days. Contact AT&T support with the unlock request number.
  • The request is denied and the reason is unclear. Confirm the installment balance is zero and the account has no past due amount, then submit a new request.

References ​