Every mobile phone that uses a SIM card has a unique identifier called an ICCID number. This number is essential for identifying your SIM card on a mobile network. It helps carriers manage your line, activate your services, and connect your phone to the right network. If you ever come across a long number printed on your SIM card and wonder what it’s for, that’s the ICCID. Understanding what an ICCID number is and how it works can be helpful, especially when dealing with mobile operators or switching to a new SIM. In this guide, we explain the basics of the ICCID number, where you can find it, and why it matters.

What is an ICCID Number?

An ICCID number (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) is a unique identifier for your SIM card on a mobile network. It is not related to your phone number or device, but to the SIM card itself. Typically consisting of 19 or 20 digits, the ICCID is used by mobile carriers to activate your SIM, link it to your account, and manage device changes. This number follows global standards set by the ITU and includes country, network provider, and SIM-specific identifiers.[1]

The ICCID is crucial for SIM management, including activation, number portability, and troubleshooting. It is also essential for eSIM activation. Without the ICCID, a SIM or eSIM cannot be recognized by the network. Whether using a physical SIM or an eSIM, knowing your ICCID helps with technical issues and service management.

Why Do ICCID Numbers Matter?

ICCID numbers are essential for managing mobile network access and linking each SIM card to the correct subscriber. Without the ICCID, mobile operators wouldn’t be able to verify or activate a SIM card on the network. This number is also useful when switching devices or transferring your number to a different provider, as it allows the system to identify your SIM without needing to replace it. In everyday use, the ICCID ensures your mobile connection is active, secure, and matched to your account.

How to Find the ICCID Number?

The ICCID number is the unique code printed on your SIM card and stored in your phone. It’s easy to find using your device settings. Below are the steps based on the operating system you use:

On iPhone:

• Open the Settings app from your home screen

• Tap General to open the device's basic information

• Select About

• Scroll down until you see ICCID listed. It's usually a long number made up of 19 or 20 digits [2]

On Android:

• Go to your phone’s Settings menu

• Tap on About Phone or About Device. This wording may differ by brand

• Choose Status or, on some models, IMEI Information

• Look for ICCID in the list of details

• If you don’t see it right away, check under SIM Status or SIM Card Info, depending on your device [3]

Most phones store the ICCID digitally, so you don’t need to remove the SIM card to check it. The number is also printed on the physical SIM itself, which is helpful if the phone is not available or powered off. Knowing where to find the ICCID can be useful when activating your phone, contacting customer support, or managing your account.

On the Packaging of SIM Card

The ICCID number is often printed on the original packaging of the SIM card. It usually appears on a sticker or label alongside a barcode and other SIM-related information. If you are unable to access your phone or turn it on, checking the packaging can be a practical way to retrieve the ICCID. This method is especially useful for inactive or uninserted SIM cards.

Contacting Your Mobile Carrier

If the SIM card is not inside a phone or the ICCID is not visible through device settings, your mobile service provider can assist you.

• Contact customer support through phone or online chat

• Provide necessary details to verify your identity, such as your phone number or account PIN

• Once verified, the carrier can locate and share the ICCID linked to your SIM

This approach is recommended if the SIM card is lost, damaged, or unavailable for direct access.

ICCID Number on SIM Card

Most SIM cards have the ICCID number printed directly on their surface. This number serves as a unique identifier for the SIM within mobile networks. To locate it:

• Remove the SIM card from the device using the SIM tray tool

• Check the front or back of the SIM card for a long numerical string

• The ICCID usually contains 19 or 20 digits and may be printed in small font

• Use a light source if needed to read it clearly

This method is helpful when you have the SIM card in hand but cannot access the number through your phone’s settings. Note that in some cases, such as with embedded or very small SIMs, the number might not be printed.

What is the difference between ICCID, IMEI and EID?

In mobile communication systems, different identifiers serve different roles. ICCID, IMEI, and EID are often confused but each one connects to a separate layer of the mobile experience. The table below explains what each identifier represents, what it's linked to, and how it's used.

Understanding the difference between ICCID, IMEI, and EID helps users manage their devices, SIM cards, and mobile network access correctly. Knowing what each identifier does is useful when setting up a phone, using an eSIM, or solving connection issues.

Information about ICCID Number

Understanding how an ICCID number is structured can help users and technicians identify SIM cards, verify network compatibility, and troubleshoot connection issues. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:

• Length of the ICCID: Most modern SIM cards use a 19-digit ICCID, while some older ones may have 20 digits depending on the operator

• Starts with 89: All ICCID numbers begin with "89", which identifies the card as part of the telecommunications industry

• Country code: Follows the prefix and is 2 or 3 digits long. It is based on International Telecommunication Union (ITU) standards and shows the country where the SIM was issued

• Mobile Network Code (MNC): Comes after the country code and can be 1 to 4 digits. It identifies the operator that issued the SIM card

• Use in roaming: This code also helps phones connect to other networks while roaming, based on agreements between carriers

• Unique SIM identifier: The middle section of the ICCID is a unique serial number that distinguishes each SIM card globally

• Check digit: The final digit is calculated using the Luhn algorithm, which ensures the integrity of the entire number

Knowing how ICCID numbers are structured is useful when activating a SIM card, transferring service, or resolving issues related to network access and configuration.

Stay Connected with Roamless eSIM

A Global eSIM like Roamless allows you to access mobile data across multiple countries without the need for physical SIM cards. This means you can stay connected while traveling, avoiding the hassle of changing SIM cards or relying on unreliable public Wi-Fi. A travel eSIM provides a secure, fast internet connection wherever you go, making it an ideal choice for staying online during your travels.

For a step-by-step guide on activation, see our article on how to set up your eSIM. If you're looking for eSIM options by country, explore our full list of eSIM destinations to find the best plan for where you're traveling.

The ICCID number is essential for identifying SIM cards and ensuring proper mobile network access. It plays a vital role in service activation, troubleshooting, and managing mobile services. Understanding how ICCID works, along with other identifiers like IMEI and EID, helps users navigate mobile network systems more efficiently. Whether at home or abroad, knowing the role of ICCID simplifies managing connectivity and service across different networks.

You can also check out our post on What is an EID Number?.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ICCID the same as the SIM card number?

- Yes, the ICCID is commonly referred to as the SIM card number. It is the unique identifier printed on your SIM card, allowing the mobile network to recognize it.

Why does my phone not show the ICCID number?

- If your phone doesn't display the ICCID, it could be due to a software issue, outdated software, or a problem with the SIM card connection. Try restarting your phone, updating the software, or reinserting the SIM card. If the issue continues, contact your carrier.

Can you look up a SIM card number?

- Yes, you can look up your SIM card's ICCID number in your phone's settings. On iPhone: Go to Settings > General > About, and scroll to find ICCID. On Android: Go to Settings > About Phone > Status > SIM Status to find the ICCID. The number is also printed directly on the SIM card.

Can the ICCID be changed?

- No, the ICCID is a permanent identifier for the SIM card and cannot be changed. It is issued by the carrier when the SIM is activated.

Do I need to worry about ICCID security?

- The ICCID itself is not highly sensitive but can be used to identify your SIM card. It's important to keep it secure to prevent unauthorized access to your mobile account. However, the ICCID alone is not enough to compromise your security.

Sources:

[1] International Telecommunication Union. The international telecommunication charge card and identification system. https://www.itu.int/rec/T-REC-E.118

[2] Apple Support. Find the serial number, EID, IMEI/MEID, CDN and ICCID on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. https://support.apple.com/en-us/108037

[3] Samsung Community. SIM number (ICCID). https://r2.community.samsung.com/t5/Galaxy-J/SIM-number-ICCID/td-p/10056136