Update: See below. 

There seems to be a lot of questions on T-Mobile’s new device unlock policy so I’m hoping to clear the air with the above image. As of April 12th, T-Mobile has enacted new requirements for device unlocks, which differ sharply from the previous unlock policy.

As of April 12th, device unlocks on T-Mobile require:

• Devices must be paid in full (Value Plans)
• 40 days of active service + and paid in full (Simple Choice and Value Plans)
• Classic/Subsidy Tenure must be 18 months
• General eligibility criteria – includes up to date on all payments, no late payments etc

It’s all pretty simple really, and goes back to the conversation T-Mobile’s CEO had that the carrier would unlock iPhone devices for customers after they were paid off in full. With that in mind, the unlock can happen inside of 2 months or 24 months depending on how long it takes to pay off the device. The one lingering question I have is what happens when someone purchases a phone outright up front, will T-Mobile unlock right from the get go or still require a 40 day wait? Anyone with an answer to this question should post in the comments I’ll update the post!

T-Mobile has updated their own support page with a complete breakdown of their unlocked policy: 

Devices with Postpaid Plans

If you have a Postpaid Plan on an eligible device, T-Mobile will provide the SIM unlock code upon request as long as:

• Your T-Mobile account is in good standing;
• You have a minimum of 40 consecutive days of active service with T-Mobile;
• You did not request an unlock code in the last 90 days (except in connection with a device exchange or upgrade);
• The device has not been reported as lost or stolen;
• T-Mobile has verified usage of the IMEI applicable to the device; and
• The device has been completely paid for.
  • Exception: Classic plan devices must exceed 18 months since activation.

Devices with Prepaid Plans or Pay In Advance

If you have a Prepaid Plan or Pay In Advance on an eligible device:

• T-Mobile will provide the SIM unlock code upon request as long as:
  • Your T-Mobile account is in good standing;
  • You have a minimum of 60 consecutive days of active service with T-Mobile;
  • You have either an account balance of at least $50.00 or a prior refill within the last 30 days;
  • The device has not been reported as lost or stolen;
  • T-Mobile has verified usage of the IMEI applicable to the device; and
  • The device has been completely paid for.
• Unless purchased at a T-Mobile-branded store or from a T-Mobile national retailer, for up to 180 days after activation, devices will only work on the T-Mobile network with the SIMs included at activation.

Devices Purchased at Full Retail Price

If you paid full retail price for an eligible device:

• T-Mobile will provide the SIM unlock code as long as:
  • Your T-Mobile account is in good standing; and
  • The device has been completely paid for (you must fax the proof of purchase to T-Mobile).
• If you have a Prepaid Plan or Pay In Advance, unless purchased at a T-Mobile-branded store or from a T-Mobile national retailer, for up to 180 days after activation, devices will only work on the T-Mobile network with the SIMs included at activation.

Former Customers

T-Mobile will provide the SIM Unlock Code upon request to former customers with eligible devices as long as:

• Your T-Mobile account is in good standing
• T-Mobile has such code or can obtain it from the manufacturer;
• You have not ported any associated line within T-Mobile’s Buyer’s Remorse period; and
• The device has been completely paid for.

Military Personnel: Following the applicable T-Mobile Buyer’s Remorse period, T-Mobile will unlock any device for any active or deployed member of the United States military as set forth above, except that the minimum number of days of active service is not required.