The SIM Card Registration Law takes effect tomorrow, December 27, 2022. All SIM users in the Philippines — both existing and new — must register their SIM cards with local telecommunication companies Globe, Smart Communications, and DITO Telecommunity Corp.

(Update, April 25: Extended! These are the details of the deadline extension for SIM registration in the Philippines.)

You still probably have questions. Fortunately, we have answers. We put together this FAQ guide to help make your registration experience go a little smoother. Scroll down to find out the answers to many common questions.

Who needs to register?

All prepaid and postpaid SIM card owners, including minors (who will be registered using the names of their parents or guardians) and foreigners, must register their mobile numbers.

Do I need to pay for registration?

No, registration is free for existing and new users.

I’m a postpaid subscriber. How do I register?

Existing Globe and Smart postpaid users will be pre-registered by their respective telcos using the details the customers provided when they applied for a postpaid plan. The carriers will still get in touch with their customers, though, to confirm the details they provided upon application. There are no details regarding postpaid registrations on DITO’s website, but the company will probably follow the same protocols as Globe and Smart.

I’m a prepaid subscriber. How do I register my SIM card?

You can refer to the following:

• Globe and TM: https://new.globe.com.ph/simreg
  • Beginning January 2023, Globe customers will be able to register through the Globe One app, too.
• GOMO: You are already considered registered. You only need to submit your ID via the GOMO app starting March 2023.
• Smart and TNT: https://smart.com.ph/simreg
  • You may also visit a Smart store; call *888 on your Smart or TNT mobile or +632 8888 1111 using your landline; contact Smart FB Messenger; or register via the GigaLife app.
• DITO: https://dito.ph/sim-registration
  • Existing customers can likewise click on the SIM Registration banner in the DITO app.

What are the requirements for registration?

All you need to do is fill out a form and provide the following information:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Present or official address
• Government ID and ID number

A liveliness check or selfie may be required for validation. Individuals who provide false information or fake IDs could face prison time of six months to two years and a fine of up to P300,000 (around $5,430).

Which government IDs are accepted for registration?

You may show any of the following:

• Passport
• Philippine Identification System ID
• SSD ID
• GSIS e-Card
• Driver’s license
• NBI clearance
• Police clearance
• Firearm’s license
• PRC ID
• Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID
• Overseas Workers Welfare Administration ID
• BIR ID
• Voter’s ID
• Senior Citizen’s Card
• UMID
• PWD Card
• Other government-issued ID with a photo

What if I can’t register my SIM card on December 27?

Not a problem! The deadline for SIM card registration is April 26, 2023.

What will happen if I don’t register my SIM by April 26?

The SIM will be deactivated permanently. Simply put, you won’t be able to use it for calls, texts, and data anymore.

Can I register more than one SIM under my name?

Yes, you can. Just repeat the process for each of your name.

I use a SIM card for home internet. Do I need to register?

Yes, SIM cards used for prepaid internet need to be registered as well, though the process can be a little more complicated, as registration requires an OTP to be sent.

I’m a foreigner on a holiday in the Philippines. How do I register?

For foreigners with a tourist visa, these are the only requirements for SIM registration: passport, proof of address in the Philippines, and return ticket to your home country. Foreign-registered SIM cards will only be valid for 30 days and shall automatically be deactivated upon expiration of the SIM.

What if my phone with my registered SIM card gets stolen?

For lost or stolen SIMs, you must inform your carrier and provide some personal information to verify ownership of the SIM card.

What if I need to change my registration details?

For any changes to the information provided during registration, inform your telco.

What if I need to transfer ownership of my SIM card?

Transfers are allowed, but it’s not yet clear how it will be handled for prepaid users.

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