Unlocking an iPhone from a carrier gives you the freedom to switch networks, use any SIM card, and increase resale value. IMEI unlocking is the best method since it’s permanent and works with Apple’s servers. This guide covers how to check if your iPhone is locked and the best ways to unlock it for free.
Key Takeaways
- IMEI unlocking is the safest and most permanent way to unlock an iPhone—it works directly with Apple’s servers and allows you to use any carrier.
- Most carriers offer free IMEI unlocking if your iPhone meets their eligibility criteria, such as being fully paid off and not blacklisted.
- You can check if your iPhone is locked by going to Settings > General > About and looking for “No SIM restrictions” under Carrier Lock.
- Be cautious with free IMEI unlock services online—many are scams that ask for payment later or require personal information.
- If your carrier refuses to unlock your iPhone, you can escalate the request through customer support or file a complaint with the FCC in the U.S.
How to Check if Your iPhone is Locked
Before unlocking an iPhone, it’s important to confirm whether it’s actually locked to a carrier. There are a few simple ways to check, and the best part is—you don’t need any special tools or tech skills to do it.
1. Check Carrier Lock Status in Settings
Apple makes it easy to see if your iPhone is locked. Just follow these steps:
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap General > About.
- Scroll down to Carrier Lock (or Network Provider Lock).
- If you see “No SIM restrictions”, your iPhone is already unlocked.
- If it shows a carrier name or “SIM locked,” the phone is still tied to a network.
This is the quickest way to check, but it may not always give the full picture—especially for secondhand or refurbished iPhones. That’s where the IMEI number comes in.
2. Using IMEI to Verify Lock Status
Every iPhone has a unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number that can reveal detailed information about the device, including its lock status. Here’s how to find it:
- Dial
*#06#on your iPhone, and the IMEI will appear on the screen.
- Or go to Settings > General > About, and scroll down to find the IMEI.
Once you have the IMEI, you can use it to check the lock status through online tools.
3. Free Online IMEI Checkers (With Caution on Scams)
There are several websites that let you enter an IMEI number and check if your iPhone is locked. Some of the most well-known free options include:
- Apple’s Official Check (if the device is still under warranty or coverage)
- Your Carrier’s Website (some networks provide an IMEI check tool)
- Third-Party IMEI Checkers (e.g., IMEI.info, iUnlocker, WipeLock)
⚠ Be Careful: Many “free” IMEI checkers only give partial information and may ask for payment to reveal the full lock status. Avoid sites that look suspicious, ask for personal details, or make big promises about unlocking for free.
Once you confirm that your iPhone is locked, the next step is finding a safe and reliable way to unlock it—preferably for free!
Understanding IMEI-Based Unlocking
Carrier unlocking an iPhone using IMEI is one of the most reliable and permanent methods. It doesn’t require special software, jailbreaking, or risky modifications. Instead, it works through Apple’s official servers, making it the same process carriers use to unlock devices.
What is IMEI, and Why is It Important?
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile device. Think of it as a digital fingerprint for your iPhone. Carriers and manufacturers use this number to track a phone’s history, including:
- Lock status (whether it’s tied to a specific carrier).
- Blacklist status (if it was reported lost or stolen).
- Warranty and activation details (Apple’s database records).
Since the IMEI is linked to Apple’s activation servers, unlocking an iPhone through this method makes the change permanent—even after software updates or factory resets.
How IMEI-Based Unlocking Works
IMEI-based unlocking is done remotely by whitelisting your device in Apple’s official database. Here’s how the process typically works:
- Request Unlock from Carrier – If eligible, the carrier submits an unlock request to Apple.
- Apple Updates the IMEI Status – The iPhone is removed from the carrier’s locked list.
- User Receives Unlock Confirmation – Once approved, the phone is permanently unlocked.
- Final Step – Insert a new SIM card, restart the device, and the unlock takes effect.
This method works at the system level, so no extra software is needed. Once done, the iPhone can be used with any compatible carrier worldwide.
Official IMEI Unlock vs. Temporary Software Unlocks
Not all unlocking methods are the same. Some may claim to “unlock” an iPhone but only provide temporary solutions. Here’s how they compare:
| Unlock Method | Permanent? | Apple Certified? | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official IMEI Unlock (via carrier or authorized provider) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ???? Safe |
| Software Unlock (jailbreaking, third-party tools) | ❌ No | ❌ No | ⚠ Risky |
| SIM Unlock Adapters (special SIM cards) | ❌ No | ❌ No | ⚠ Can stop working anytime |
Why IMEI Unlocking is the Best Choice
- Permanent and safe – Unlike software unlocks, IMEI unlocks last forever.
- No modifications needed – No jailbreaking or risky downloads.
- Apple-approved process – Works with official carrier and Apple databases.
If you’re looking for a reliable way to unlock an iPhone, IMEI-based unlocking is the way to go. Up next, let’s explore how to do it for free! ????
Free Methods to Carrier Unlock iPhone Using IMEI
Unlocking an iPhone using IMEI doesn’t have to cost money—if you go through the right channels. While paid services exist, there are a few ways to get an official unlock for free. Below are the best methods to unlock an iPhone without spending a dime.
Method 1: Contacting Your Carrier for a Free Unlock
Most major carriers offer free unlocking services—if your iPhone meets their eligibility requirements. This is the safest and most reliable way to unlock your device permanently.
Carrier Eligibility Requirements
Each carrier has its own rules, but most require the following:
✔ Device must be fully paid off (no remaining balance or contract obligations).
✔ iPhone must not be reported lost, stolen, or blacklisted.
✔ Must have been active on the carrier’s network for a set period (varies by carrier).
✔ Account must be in good standing (no outstanding bills or violations).
Step-by-Step Guide to Requesting an Unlock
1️⃣ Find Your IMEI Number – Dial *#06# or go to Settings > General > About.
2️⃣ Check Carrier’s Unlock Policy – Visit the carrier’s website or call customer service.
3️⃣ Submit an Unlock Request – Carriers often have an online form or customer support line for unlock requests.
4️⃣ Wait for Approval – This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the carrier.
5️⃣ Complete the Unlock Process – Once approved, insert a new SIM card and restart your iPhone to finalize the unlock.
Carrier Unlock Request Pages:
- AT&T: Unlock an AT&T device
- T-Mobile: t-mobile.com/unlock
- Verizon: Verizon unlocks most phones automatically after 60 days.
- Sprint (now part of T-Mobile): T-Mobile Unlock Page
⚡ Pro Tip: If your carrier refuses to unlock your phone but you meet the requirements, escalate the request by contacting customer support or filing a complaint with the FCC (U.S.) or Ombudsman Services (UK).
Method 2: Using Free Online IMEI Unlock Services (Warning on Scams)
Some websites claim to offer free IMEI unlocking services. While most free tools only provide basic IMEI information, a few may actually process a free unlock.
Few Legitimate Free IMEI Unlock Tools
- Apple’s Official iPhone Unlock (only if the carrier submits the request).
- Carrier Websites (some allow IMEI checks and unlocks directly).
- Checkmend (UK users) – A legitimate IMEI checker that sometimes provides unlock options.
How to Avoid Fake Unlock Services
???? Be cautious—many sites promise a “free unlock” but ask for payment at the last step. Here’s how to spot and avoid scams:
???? Red Flags:
- Requires payment AFTER entering your IMEI.
- Claims to “unlock any iPhone instantly” (official unlocks take time).
- Asks for unnecessary personal details (credit card, ID).
- Poor website design or too many pop-ups.
✅ Safe Practices:
- Use trusted carrier or Apple-approved services.
- Read reviews before using a third-party site.
- Never enter personal payment details unless it’s a well-known service.
Method 3: Checking If Apple or Your Carrier Has Already Unlocked Your Phone
Sometimes, an iPhone gets unlocked automatically without the user even knowing. This can happen in a few cases:
1. iPhones That Get Unlocked Automatically After Contract Expiration
- Some carriers unlock devices after 60-90 days if they are fully paid off.
- Verizon, for example, unlocks all iPhones 60 days after purchase.
- Older contract-based iPhones may be unlocked after the agreement ends.
2. Apple’s Involvement in Carrier Unlocking
Apple doesn’t directly unlock iPhones, but it does process unlock requests from carriers. Once an unlock request is approved, Apple updates the IMEI in its activation database.
How to Check If Your iPhone Is Already Unlocked:
1️⃣ Go to Settings > General > About.
2️⃣ Look for “No SIM Restrictions” under Carrier Lock.
3️⃣ Try inserting a SIM card from a different carrier—if it works, the phone is unlocked.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How Long Does IMEI Unlocking Take?
The time it takes to unlock an iPhone through IMEI varies depending on the carrier. Some unlock requests are approved within a few hours, while others can take up to a week. Most major carriers in the U.S. process requests within 24 to 72 hours, but it’s best to check with your carrier for exact timelines.
2. Can I Unlock a Blacklisted iPhone?
A blacklisted iPhone is one that has been reported lost, stolen, or linked to unpaid bills. Even if you manage to IMEI-unlock it, most carriers will not activate a blacklisted device on their network. The only way to remove a blacklist status is to contact the original carrier and resolve any outstanding issues.
3. Will Unlocking Affect My Warranty?
If you unlock your iPhone through official IMEI-based methods, your Apple warranty and support remain intact. Apple recognizes carrier unlocks that are done properly. However, third-party software unlocks or jailbreaking can void your warranty and may cause issues with future iOS updates.
4. What If My Carrier Refuses to Unlock My iPhone?
If your carrier denies an unlock request, it’s usually because the iPhone doesn’t meet their eligibility criteria (such as unpaid balances or contract obligations). If you believe your device qualifies, try contacting customer support again and request a review. In the U.S., you can also file a complaint with the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) to push the carrier to unlock your device.
5. Can I Unlock My iPhone With an IMEI Number for Free?
Yes, if your iPhone meets the carrier’s unlock requirements, you can request a free unlock by providing your IMEI number. Most major carriers offer free unlock services once the device is fully paid off. Below are customer service numbers for some of the top U.S. carriers:
- AT&T IMEI Unlock: 800-288-2020
- T-Mobile IMEI Unlock: 800-937-8997
- Verizon: Unlocks automatically after 60 days
- Sprint (Now T-Mobile): Uses the same unlock process as T-Mobile
6. Can You Unlock an iPhone for Any Carrier for Free?
Only the original carrier that locked the iPhone can officially unlock it. If your phone is eligible, contact your carrier and submit an unlock request. Once approved, your device will be permanently unlocked and can be used with any carrier that supports it. Keep in mind that unlocking doesn’t guarantee compatibility with all networks, as some carriers use different technologies (GSM vs. CDMA).