You can determine if your SIM card is active by checking the network signal bars on your phone, attempting to make a call or send a text, or checking the phone's settings.
Log in with your mobile number. Navigate to the “Track SIM Status” section. Enter your request or reference number. View the current status of your SIM, including activation progress or replacement details.
How to activate SIM card on Android
If your phone doesn't recognize the SIM card, first power off and remove the SIM tray. Inspect the SIM card and tray for dirt or damage. Clean gently with a soft cloth. Reinsert the SIM securely and restart the device. Ensure the SIM is activated and compatible with your phone's network.
What should I do if my SIM card isn't working?
SIMs can sometimes take up to 24 hours to activate, although it's usually quicker. SIM compatibility. It's important to check that your phone model is compatible with the SIM card you received. Some older phones don't work with newer SIM cards.
Yes, you can almost always activate a SIM card yourself by inserting it into your phone and following the on-screen prompts or by visiting the carrier's website/app with your SIM details (like the SIM number or activation key) and a valid ID for online self-activation, often requiring Wi-Fi. The process is straightforward and typically involves entering details from the SIM pack and potentially verifying your identity to get connected.
You'll know your SIM card expires when you don't get a network signal, and can't make or receive calls and messages. You'll also receive an “invalid SIM” message. Your SIM card expires for a few reasons: If you don't activate or use it by the expiration date on the SIM pack envelope.
Android devices might show a notification about a non-detected SIM or ask you to check the SIM card's status. Go to “Settings” > “About phone” > “Status.” If "Network," "Mobile network type," or "Service state" show unusual or no data, it could indicate a SIM problem as well.
Postpaid (Monthly) SIM Cards
You can reactivate your postpaid SIM an unlimited number of times at no charge. Sometimes, SIM cards that have already been reactivated once won't appear automatically in your account due to backend syncing delays.
Check the expiry date on the back of your SIM kit packaging to see if it's still valid. If your SIM card has expired or is faulty, you'll need to return it to where you bought it and ask for a refund.
Most prepaid SIMs expire after 30–180 days of inactivity. Even postpaid cards can be deactivated if the account closes. Always check with your carrier.
The easiest way to check if a SIM card is active is simply insert it into a working phone and power it up, and then try to dial out to a friend or a publicly listed phone number.
While some providers may offer a grace period to reactivate your SIM, it's generally not possible to recover the number once it's been disconnected and recycled.
Insert the SIM into your device and turn it on. Have the activation key (located on the back of your Prepaid Starter Pack) and a valid form of ID on hand.
Important: Many devices will automatically approve your carrier services after you insert your SIM card. If your device shows an error message or if you have any issues with your SIM card or carrier services, get help from your mobile carrier.
Your SIM will be ready to use within 24 hours. Until then, keep using your old SIM and device. When you're no longer able to make calls or send texts with your old SIM, your new SIM is ready. Once it's activated, go to our device support to find out how to transfer your contacts.
Customer can send any SMS (including blank SMS) to 7751. In reply the system tells the customer if the number in use is BVS verified or not. Customer can send any SMS (including blank SMS) to 7750.
Yes, SIM cards can expire. SIM cards have an expiration date that varies depending on the carrier's policies. An inactive SIM card usually expires after approximately 90 to 180 days.
Contact your provider: Clearly state your intent to reactivate or port your phone number. Confirm eligibility and any associated fees. Choose a service plan: If reactivating, select a suitable service plan or discuss temporary activation if you intend to port immediately.
While many older SIM cards still function after several years, they are not immune to failure. Wear and tear, frequent insertion, and exposure to environmental factors can slowly degrade performance.
Post 60 days the numbers is deactivated and sent for re-manufacturing and pairing with a new SIM. This is then put in market via distributors and retailers. Given the spread of distribution and popularity of prepaid connection, getting back the numbers from market is logistically impossible.
Test the SIM Card in Another Phone (Or Vice Versa)
To figure out if the problem is with your SIM or your phone, try putting your SIM card into another working phone. If it works there, the issue is likely with your phone. If it doesn't, your SIM card is the likely culprit.