In 2025, more and more iPhone users are looking to break free from carrier restrictions, especially when it comes to SIM lock issues. Whether you bought a second-hand device, plan to switch carriers, or want the freedom to use local SIM cards while traveling abroad, removing a SIM lock has become an essential step. This guide will walk you through how to remove a SIM lock on iPhone for free, and when it might be worth considering paid unlocking services, so you can make the most cost-effective and efficient choice.

What Is an iPhone SIM Lock?

An iPhone SIM lock, often referred to as a carrier lock, is a software restriction that limits your device to one specific mobile network. This means you cannot use SIM cards or eSIMs from other carriers while the lock is active. Such locks are commonly applied when you buy an iPhone at a discounted price tied to a service contract, as the carrier offsets the cost of the device in return for your long-term commitment.

The Best Way to Unlock SIM Lock

Passixer iPhone Unlocker is an all-in-one solution designed to handle various iOS restrictions. It enables you to unlock any screen lock, remove Apple ID without a password, bypass or delete MDM profiles, and bypass the iCloud Activation Lock. Additionally, it can remove the Screen Time passcode, unlock your iPhone’s SIM for use with any major carrier, and disable iTunes backup encryption. With Passixer, removing a SIM lock is fast and straightforward—whether your iPhone is brand new or pre-owned—allowing you to enjoy complete carrier freedom without contacting your provider or risking data loss.

Steps:

Step 1: Launch Passixer and choose Remove SIM Locks.

Step 2: Connect your iPhone to your computer (PC or Mac) and tap Trust on the device when prompted.

Step 3: Click Start and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the jailbreak process.

Step 4: Review your device details, then select Start SIM Lock Removal.

Step 5: Remove any saved Wi-Fi networks and disable Wi-Fi.

Step 6: Wait for the process to complete, then verify that your iPhone has been successfully unlocked.

Pros:

• Fast and straightforward SIM lock removal with no special requirements.
• More cost-effective than carrier unlocking or most online services.
• Safer, with minimal risk of data breaches.
• More reliable than hardware-based RSIM solutions.
• Broad compatibility with nearly all major carriers.
• Retains full device functionality—no features are lost after unlocking.

Cons:

• Requires a paid license.
• A computer is necessary to complete the process.

Free Methods to Remove SIM Lock

Way 1: Unlock a Carrier-Locked iPhone with a Free Unlock Code

If your iPhone is locked to a specific network, one of the easiest free options is to request a free unlock code from your carrier. Many mobile providers offer this service at no charge once you meet their requirements, such as completing your contract or paying off the device.

Note: This method only works if your iPhone is fully paid off and registered under your name.

Steps to get a free unlock code:

1. Contact your carrier’s support team – Use their hotline, live chat, or online request form to ask for a network unlock code.
2. Provide your details – Have your IMEI number ready and ensure the information you share is correct.
3. Enter the code – Once the carrier provides the unlock code, follow their instructions to unlock your iPhone and start using it with any compatible network.

Pros:

• Free of charge: Usually no cost if you meet the carrier’s unlock requirements.
• Official and safe: Done through the carrier, so there’s no risk of data loss or device damage.
• Permanent unlock: Once applied, the unlock remains even after a factory reset.
• Preserves warranty and functionality: iPhone features and system updates are not affected.

Cons:

• Eligibility restrictions: You must meet the carrier’s requirements, such as completing the contract or paying off the device in full.
• Processing time: The approval process can take several days or even weeks.
• Not available for all carriers: Some carriers or regions may not support free unlock codes.
• Requires access to the original carrier: For second-hand devices, you may need the previous owner’s cooperation to request the code.

Way 2: Unlock iPhone SIM via the Settings App

You can unlock your iPhone SIM directly through the Settings app. This method works well for prompting the unlock screen or removing a SIM PIN lock. Simply go to Settings > Cellular > SIM PIN and follow the on-screen instructions to unlock your SIM.

Pros：

• Quick and convenient: No additional tools or software required.
• Built-in method: Uses iOS native settings, so it’s safe and reliable.
• Immediate effect: Unlock prompt appears right away, allowing you to enter the PIN instantly.
• No cost: Completely free to use.

Cons：

• Only works for SIM PIN, not carrier locks: Cannot remove network restrictions or full SIM locks.
• Requires knowledge of the current PIN: If you forget the SIM PIN, this method won’t work.
• Limited functionality: Cannot unlock the iPhone for use with other carriers.

Way 3: Unlock iPhone SIM via the Phone App

A direct way to unlock your iPhone SIM is through the Phone app. Open the app and start a call with any contact or even a random number. This action will bring up the SIM unlock prompt, allowing you to enter your SIM PIN. You can also enter a dummy number (e.g., 333) and press the call button without actually making a real call.

Tip: If you accidentally tap Cancel on the unlock prompt, simply repeat the steps to bring the unlock dialog back.

Pros：

• Fast and accessible: Uses a built-in app, so no extra tools are needed.
• Simple process: Quickly triggers the SIM unlock prompt.
• No cost: Completely free.
• Works even if you don’t want to place a real call: Dummy numbers can be used.

Cons：

• Limited to SIM PIN unlocks: Cannot remove carrier locks.
• Requires knowledge of the SIM PIN: Forgotten PIN will prevent unlocking.
• Not suitable for permanent carrier unlocking: Only works for immediate SIM access.

Way 4: Unlock iPhone SIM via Carrier / Network Provider

The most official and reliable way to remove a SIM lock is by requesting an unlock directly from your carrier. This method is suitable for both new and second-hand iPhones, as long as the device meets the carrier’s eligibility requirements.

Steps：

Check eligibility – Ensure your iPhone is fully paid off and not under a pending contract. Some carriers require the account to be active for a certain period.

1. Contact your carrier – Reach out via phone, live chat, or the carrier’s official website to request a SIM unlock.
2. Provide your device information – Have your IMEI number ready, along with account details if required.
3. Wait for confirmation – The carrier will process your request; this may take a few days.
4. Complete the unlock – Follow any instructions sent by the carrier, such as inserting a new SIM or performing a backup/restore, to finalize the unlock.
5. Test with a different SIM – Insert a SIM from another carrier to confirm that the iPhone is fully unlocked.

Pros：

• Official and safe – Done through the carrier, so no risk of voiding warranty or data loss.
• Permanent unlock – Once unlocked, the iPhone remains unlocked even after iOS updates or factory resets.
• Free or low-cost – Many carriers provide this service for free if eligibility requirements are met.
• Compatible with all supported networks – Works with most major carriers worldwide.

Cons：

• Eligibility requirements – Must meet contract and payment conditions; may not be available for all devices.
• Processing time – Can take several days or even weeks.
• Dependent on carrier cooperation – If the carrier refuses or you cannot contact them (e.g., for a second-hand iPhone), this method won’t work.
• May require account holder – For second-hand phones, you might need the original owner’s help.

Paid SIM Unlock Services

Way 1: UnlockBoot

UnlockBoot is a well-known online service for unlocking iPhone SIMs, supporting a wide range of models from the iPhone 4 up to the iPhone 16. Availability may vary depending on the country and carrier.

Once your iPhone is unlocked through UnlockBoot, it can be used with any network provider, removing all carrier restrictions.

Pros:

• Supports both older and newer iPhone models.
• Unlocks are permanent.
• Provides detailed instructions and video tutorials for SIM unlocking.
• Offers a refund guarantee.

Cons:

• Processing times can be longer compared to other services.

Way 2: UnlockRiver

UnlockRiver is a popular online platform for unlocking iPhones, with a 4.4-star rating on Trustpilot. It supports over 700 carriers in more than 120 countries for both iOS and Android devices.

Pros:

• Global support, including eSIM-compatible carriers.
• Simple online form submission process.

Cons:

• Processing can take longer than average.
• Service fees are higher than typical online unlock providers.

Way 3：Doctor SIM

Doctor SIM is a professional iPhone unlock service recommended by many network providers and manufacturers. It allows you to unlock your device on any network without voiding the manufacturer warranty.

Doctor SIM also provides a free blacklist check, helping you avoid paying for devices that cannot be unlocked due to being blacklisted.

Pros:

• Keeps your warranty intact.
• Free blacklist checking service available.
• Offers a guarantee: unlock success or your money back.

Cons:

• Lower success rate for inexpensive unlock options.
• Cannot remove blacklist restrictions from your device.

How to Use These Services:

1. Fill out the online form with your device details: carrier, model, IMEI, and email.
2. Pay the service fee.
3. The service provider handles the rest, guiding you through the unlock process.

Conclusion

Whether you choose free methods like carrier unlock codes or the Settings/Phone app, or paid services like Passixer or UnlockBoot, removing your iPhone SIM lock in 2025 is easier than ever. Free options are safe and cost-effective but may have limitations, while paid services offer permanent unlocks and broader carrier compatibility. Choose the method that best fits your needs and enjoy full network freedom on your iPhone.