How do I activate and set up my new SIM?

What do I need to do when I get a new SIM?

Here’s what to do when you get sent a new SIM:

1

pop the SIM into your device
2

activate your new SIM

you only need to do this if you’ve upgraded and been sent a new SIM, or ordered a new one because your old one no longer fitted your device
3

wait for a signal and the EE symbol to appear on your screen

this can take up to 24 hours but is usually much quicker

And you’re all set up! We won’t even send an activation text, just a few network updates.

If you’re using an Apple device, you may also need to refresh iMessage so it connects with the right number. Just:

1

go to Settings > Messages
2

turn iMessage off, wait 10 seconds and turn iMessage on again
3

go to Settings > Phone and make sure My Number shows your correct mobile number
4

tap My Number and type in your correct number if the above steps don’t work

You’ll only need to activate your SIM if:

If that’s you, we’ll ask for three things:

1

the reason you’ve got a new SIM
2

your current phone number, so we can text you a security PIN
3

the serial number of your new SIM - you can find this on the back of the SIM, or under the barcode on the letter we sent with your new SIM

And that’s it!

How useful was this page?

Thanks for your feedback

How can we improve this article?

Please let us know how we can make it better

Thanks for your feedback

Ask the community

Ask questions and share tips with other people 24 hours a day

Need more help?