How do I request for my phone to be unlocked from my provider?

We’ve provided a quick guide for the main mobile providers below. You’ll need to have your International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number ready. This is just a 15-digit number that uniquely identifies a mobile phone or other cellular device. You can get this by dialling #06# on your phone. Take a note of it and then follow these steps:

O2 / Virgin

  1. Have your IMEI ready (dial #06# on your phone).
  2. Contact O2 customer service by phone on 0344 809 0222 or via their online chat to request an unlock.
  3. You may be asked for your account information or proof-of-ownership.

As Virgin Mobile UK no longer exists, customer device unlocking is now done through O2. You can find more information here.

Vodaphone

  1. Complete Vodafone’s Network Unlock Code (NUC) request form here.
  2. You should receive unlock code between 48 hours to 10 days.
  3. Insert a different SIM, enter the code, and your phone will be unlocked.

EE

  1. Have your IMEI ready (dial #06# on your phone).
  2. Enter it here and then continue to follow the steps.

Three

Three began selling all handsets unlocked by default from January 2014.

Tesco Mobile

  1. Have your IMEI ready (dial #06# on your phone).
  2. Submit an unlock request here.