Phone Unlocking in Ontario: What You Need to Know

What the Wireless Code says

Canada's Wireless Code, set by the CRTC, covers cell phone contracts across the country. Since December 1, 2017:

• New phones must be sold unlocked.
• Carriers must unlock phones bought before then free of charge when you ask.

So most Canadian phones are already unlocked. Phones bought abroad, from some resellers, or second-hand may still be locked.

How to check if your phone is locked

iPhone

Go to Settings › General › About and scroll to Carrier Lock. "No SIM restrictions" means it's unlocked.

Android

The quickest test is to insert a SIM from a different carrier. If you get an "SIM not supported" or network-unlock prompt, it's locked. Some Android phones also show the lock status in the network settings.

Unlocking vs. passcodes vs. Activation Lock

• Carrier unlock — lets the phone work on other networks. Legitimate and routine.
• Forgotten passcode — the phone must be restored, which erases it unless you have a backup.
• iCloud Activation Lock / Google account lock — anti-theft protection. Only the account owner, or Apple/Google with original proof of purchase, can remove it. No legitimate repair shop will bypass it.

Travelling? Unlock before you go

An unlocked phone lets you buy a local SIM or eSIM abroad instead of paying roaming fees. Sort it out a week or two before you leave so there's time if the carrier needs to process a request.

Buying a used phone?

Before paying, check the carrier lock status, make sure the seller has signed out of their Apple ID or Google account, and that the phone isn't reported lost or stolen.

Need help? Our phone unlocking service in Milton checks your lock status, handles the request and sets up your new SIM or eSIM at your door.

Frequently asked questions

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