WhatsApp verification code not received? Why it happens and how to fix it

You typed your number, tapped Next, and now you are staring at a screen that says a code is on its way. It isn't. The fix depends on why. This guide goes through the causes in the order that saves the most time, with separate steps for iPhone and Android, and ends with the one thing you should never do with a code.

Quick checks before you try anything else

WhatsApp's help pages list a few requirements for registering a number. Most failed codes trace back to one of them, so check these first.

• The number is yours and typed correctly: choose your country, then enter the full number. A wrong country code sends the code somewhere else.
• The phone can get calls and texts: WhatsApp says you must be able to receive both SMS and calls on that number.
• You have a working connection: WhatsApp says you need mobile data or Wi-Fi, and that roaming data or a poor connection may make registration fail.
• WhatsApp is up to date: WhatsApp recommends the latest version of the app.
• Call blocking is off: turn off any call-blocking settings, apps or task killers, because the voice option relies on a call getting through.

If those are fine, restart the phone, then try again. A restart is not a magic fix, but it can clear a stuck network connection.

Why does the WhatsApp code not arrive?

Here is how the common causes look from your side, and where to go for each one.

Wait for the timer, then ask for a phone call

WhatsApp's help page says that if a code doesn't arrive, you can tap the option for no code received and choose to get a new code by SMS or by phone call. It tells you to let the progress bar finish before you try again. It also says waits vary but usually take just a few minutes.

Keep your phone unlocked and away from do not disturb. A call from an unknown number can go straight to silent.

Don't keep guessing: the "too many times" lockout

WhatsApp warns against guessing the registration code. If you enter the wrong code more than once, you may see a message that you guessed the code too many times. WhatsApp then asks you to wait before requesting another one. It does not publish how long the wait is, and some people report anything from an hour to a day. Treat those reports as anecdotes, not rules.

The sensible move is to stop, wait, and then try once with a fresh code. Asking for more codes while you are locked out won't help, because WhatsApp asks you to wait.

WhatsApp verification code not received on iPhone: check filtered texts

Apple's Messages can sort texts from numbers that aren't in your contacts into separate folders. A verification text is exactly that kind of message. If the filter is on, the code can arrive without an alert.

If you find the code, enter it quickly, because it can expire. To stop this from happening again, you can mark the sender as known. Apple says that moves that sender's messages into your main list. For a wider look at texts that don't arrive, see our guide to iPhone not receiving texts. Our article on verification codes on iPhone explains where codes appear and how AutoFill works.

Check spam and blocked messages on Android

Android phones often hide a code in a spam or blocked folder. The steps depend on your messages app.

• Google Messages: tap your profile picture or initials, then open Spam & blocked. Google's help says you can select a conversation and tap Move to inbox. To review the filter, go to Messages settings, then Protection & Safety, then Spam and scam protection.
• Samsung Messages: open the app, tap the three dot menu, then Settings, and look for the blocked numbers and spam or blocked messages area. Menu names vary by region and software version, so look for similar wording.

If you find a code there, use it fast. Then check whether the sender is blocked and unblock it, so the next code lands in your inbox.

Dual SIM and eSIM: is the right line on?

If your phone has two lines, the code goes to the number you entered, on the line that carries it. If that line is turned off, has no signal, or the eSIM isn't finished activating, nothing arrives. On an iPhone, Apple's dual SIM page tells you to label each plan, which helps you see which number is which. Open Settings, then Cellular or Mobile Service, and check that the line with your WhatsApp number is on and shows signal. Android menus vary, but look under network or SIM settings.

If the eSIM shows as activating but never finishes, see our guide on an iPhone eSIM stuck activating. If you just moved to a new phone, our guide on transferring an eSIM to a new iPhone covers the number side.

Is your number supported by WhatsApp?

This is the cause most guides skip. WhatsApp's help page lists number types it doesn't support: VoIP numbers, toll free numbers, premium rate numbers, Universal Access Numbers and landlines. Landlines work only with WhatsApp Business. WhatsApp also says you can only register a number you own, and that WhatsApp and WhatsApp Business each need a different number.

The same page says unsupported devices such as an iPad can't register, and that the phone must not be jailbroken. If your number is an internet calling or virtual number, switch to a real mobile number on a SIM or eSIM.

What if the code arrives but doesn't work?

Go slowly. Use the newest code only, because each request gives a different code. Don't try old codes. WhatsApp's help says guessing can lock you out. If the code has expired, wait for the timer, request a new one, and enter it once.

Can I get the code by email instead?

Only in one case. WhatsApp says you can get a code by email if you are logging in to an existing account and you added your email address in settings, during your first registration, or when you set up two step verification. A brand new account can't use email. If you have an email on file, look for the email option on the verification screen.

The extra SMS security check

Sometimes WhatsApp asks for an extra SMS check as a precaution. In that case you tap the send option, and your phone sends a pre-filled text to WhatsApp. WhatsApp then confirms the account. Your carrier may charge for the text. If your plan has no texting or you have no balance, this step can fail.

When should I contact my carrier?

If nothing works after the steps above, WhatsApp recommends contacting your mobile provider. A carrier can confirm whether texts or calls to your number are blocked or delayed. Ask them these questions:

• Is my line active, and can it receive texts and calls?
• Is there any block on texts from automated senders?
• Are there any outages or delays in my area?

WhatsApp also says some users in certain regions can see delays in SMS, voice and missed call codes. If your carrier says all is well, waiting and trying again later is reasonable. If you use Verizon, our guide on Verizon verification codes not arriving has carrier specific steps.

What you should never do

Missing codes attract scammers. Keep these rules.

• Never share your code. Not with a friend, a support agent, or a website. Anyone who has your code can take over your WhatsApp account.
• Don't use code selling or virtual number sites. They are unofficial, and they put your account at risk.
• Be wary of codes you didn't ask for. It may mean someone typed your number. Don't pass the code on. Our guide to spotting scam texts explains the tricks.
• Turn on two step verification. Once you are in, add it in WhatsApp, and also read about setting up two factor authentication on your other accounts.

If your texts suddenly stop arriving at all, and you didn't change anything, also read about the SIM swap scam. It is rare, but it is a reason to call your carrier quickly.

Still stuck? What to try next

Try a different network, such as Wi-Fi if you used cellular, or the reverse. Restart, update WhatsApp, and try again later in the day. If another phone with the same SIM gets the text, the problem is your first phone. If neither does, the problem is the number or the carrier. When you've done all that, use the Help Center on WhatsApp's site, which has a page for registration problems. For other app problems, see our guide to WhatsApp not working.