Heads up if you’re an active mobile user. As you know, the SIM Card Registration Act is now implemented, and this legislative measure requires all consumers to register their personal information with telecommunications companies.
The good news is that telcos like Globe and Smart have an online portal where you can register for free. Here’s a step-by-step guide for your reference.
What is SIM card registration?
The SIM Card Registration Act, also known as the Republic Act 11934, is a law in the Philippines that requires mobile phone users to register their SIM cards with their telco provider. This law aims to combat spam text messages that often lead to scams and fraudulent activities.
Under the SIM Card Registration Act, every mobile user must provide accurate personal information supported by a valid government-issued ID. These include
- Full name
- Address
- Date of birth
- Gender
National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) ensures that all the collected data are confidential. Registrations are only available online, which means there’s no need for physical appearance in the service centers of telcos.
What are the requirements for SIM card registration?
Here are the requirements for registering online according to the type of subscriber.
As an individual user
- 1 valid government-issued identification card (ID)
- Photo of the ID with a selfie
Here are the official IDs you can use:
- Passport
- Philippine Identification System ID, or the Philippine Identification Card
- Social Security Service ID
- Government Service Insurance System e-Card
- Driver’s license
- NBI clearance
- Police clearance
- Firearms’ License to Own and Possess ID
- PRC ID
- Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID
- OWWA ID
- BIR ID
- Voter’s ID
- Senior citizen’s card
- UMID Card
- Person with Disabilities card
- Other government-issued ID with photo
For minors, it’s recommended that the parent of the guardian will register.
For business entity
You need to have:
- Certificate of registration
- For corporations, special power of attorney
For foreign nationals (regardless of visa status)
- Passport
- Proof of residence in the Philippines
- Other supporting documents, such as work permit or school registration and IDs for students
How to register your SIM Card online
Keep in mind that if you’re a prepaid subscriber, you need to visit the online registration page of your telco provider. Prepare your valid ID and take a selfie with it. Ensure you have an internet-ready mobile device or computer to complete the registration.
Postpaid subscribers don’t need to register online. A set of instructions are provided by your service provider sent via SMS.
Register your SIM on Globe/TM
- Visit the SIM registration page.
- Enter your mobile number and click Register.
- Fill out the form with your personal information and attach your valid ID and selfie.
- Once done, don’t forget to write down your reference number.
Register your SIM on Smart
- Visit Smart SIM registration portal.
- Enter your mobile number and check the boxes to opt-in and agree with Smart T&Cs.
- You will receive an OTP on your mobile number you are registering. Enter the pin on the website and click Verify to confirm your active number.
- Fill out the form and enter the OTP and personal information. Attach a photo of your valid ID and a selfie.
- Wait for SMS confirmation and don’t forget to keep your control number.
Register your SIM on DITO
As of the time of writing, DITO doesn’t have an online portal registration. However, existing users can register using the DITO app.
What happens if I don’t register my SIM?
You must register before April 26, 2023 to ensure your account is activated permanently. In short, you can’t use it anymore for SMS, calls, and mobile services. While no penalties and fines are imposed for those who didn’t register, the lines will be automatically cut off.
New SIM cards issued December 27, 2022 (date of Implementing Rules and Regulations) onwards are deactivated. Users will need to register their personal information to activate the account.
Can I register multiple SIM cards?
By all means, yes. You are free to register as many SIM cards as you like, provided that you provide a valid ID and supporting documents whenever you register a mobile number.
We hope this quick guide has helped you start the registration process. For concerns and questions, better to contact your telco provider for assistance.