IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) blocking prevents a lost or stolen phone from accessing mobile networks. However, if you recover the device, it is possible unlock the IMEI to remove the restrictions and use your smartphone normally again. Check, below, how to revert the blocked IMEI with operators Claro, TIM and Vivo.
Have your IMEI number handy
Before continuing, it is important to have the IMEI number of the recovered device at hand. If you don’t have this code, see our article on how to find out the IMEI of a cell phone🇧🇷
When is it possible to unlock the IMEI of a cell phone?
It is possible to request the unlocking of the IMEI of cell phones recovered by the owner, after they have been lost or stolen and that have been registered in Anatel’s restriction database.
It is not possible to ask for the unlocking of an irregular handset because they are considered “pirate” or without homologation recognized by Anatel.
Who can unlock cell phone IMEI?
In response to TechnoblogAnatel states that only those who requested the blocking of the IMEI of a device can request the unlocking.
The agency clarifies that the unlocking process must be done directly with the cell phone operator or the entity that performed the IMEI lock — as a civilian police unit.
How to unlock IMEI on carrier?
Anatel explained that it is up to each mobile operator to define the necessary documentation to unlock the IMEI. However, the agency reiterates that only those who requested the blocking can request cell phone unlocking.
O Technoblog contacted Claro, TIM and Vivo to understand the procedures for unlocking the IMEI; Check out the information about the service channels below:
How to unlock IMEI on Claro
To TechnoblogClaro informed that the unlocking of IMEI must be requested in physical stores (see a map with Claro stores here🇧🇷 Unable to unlock over the internet.
Documents required to unlock IMEI on Claro
The customer must go to a Claro physical store with the following documents:
- copy of RG and CPF;
- copy of proof of residence;
- copy of the invoice of the blocked device;
- copy of the incident report;
- authorization of use for third parties (only if the line user is not the holder);
- copy of the social contract (exclusive for lines owned by a legal entity).
THE clear did not inform the procedure for releasing the IMEI on smartphones that do not have an invoice, including those purchased abroad.
How to unlock IMEI on TIM
According to TIM, unlocking the IMEI of recovered devices can be requested over the internet on the TIM website (via chat in the logged-in area), in physical stores (find the nearest TIM store), in the telephone service (number 1056) or via WhatsApp (start a conversation with TIM🇧🇷
After the request, the customer must forward the documentation within a maximum period of 48 hours to the email address [email protected]🇧🇷
Documents required to unlock IMEI on TIM
The customer must forward the following documents to request the unlocking of the IMEI of a recovered cell phone:
- Invoice of the device with access number, name, CPF and IMEI number;
- Handwritten letter from the line holder (individual) or contract administrator (legal entity), requesting the exclusion of the block.
TIM states that, if the customer no longer has the invoice, he can redeem it through the electronic invoice portal. If the device was purchased abroad, the customer can ask the manufacturer to issue a manual purchase note.
How to unlock IMEI on Vivo
Vivo informed that unlocking the IMEI of a recovered smartphone must be done in the physical store (see the map of Vivo stores) from the operator and submit the required documentation. The equipment will be rehabilitated within 48 working hours. It is not possible to request an IMEI unlock over the internet.
Documents required to unlock the IMEI on Vivo
The customer must go to a physical store with the following documents:
- Identification document (RG, CNH etc);
- Invoice of the device in the name of the customer. If the invoice is in the name of another person, it is necessary to present a term of donation from the third party registered in a notary;
- Release request form, filled in by the customer in his own hand.
Vivo did not respond about the procedure for unlocking the IMEI of smartphones that do not have an invoice, including those purchased abroad.
Can I unlock an IMEI online or via an app?
Only the TIM operator allows you to officially unlock the IMEI online. It is important to be careful with websites and applications that promise release, as they may be scams to steal personal data.
How much does it cost to unlock a cell phone’s IMEI?
There is no cost to unlock the IMEI of a cell phone previously blocked by loss or theft.
How long does it take to unlock IMEI?
According to Anatel, operators have up to 72 hours to unblock the IMEI after the user’s request, upon proof of identity.
Unable to unlock phone’s IMEI. Can I change?
There are devices that change mobile IMEI, but this practice is illegal. If you found it difficult to go through the process with the carriers, it might be interesting file a complaint with Anatel🇧🇷
https://tecnoblog.net/responde/como-desbloquear-um-celular-bloqueado-por-imei/