How to Register a SIM That’s Not in Your Name
The SIM Registration Act (Republic Act No. 11934) in the Philippines requires all SIM cards to be registered under the real identity of the user. This law is meant to enhance security and reduce fraud, scams, and other illicit activities associated with mobile communication. However, there are times when you may find yourself needing to register a SIM that’s not in your name — perhaps you’re helping a relative or friend, or you’re dealing with an old SIM card that’s still under someone else’s name.
In this article, we’ll explain the process of registering a SIM card that’s not in your name, the requirements, and the potential challenges you may encounter. We’ll also address the legal implications, common issues, and how to properly handle this situation.
Why Would You Need to Register a SIM That’s Not in Your Name?
There are several reasons why you might need to register a SIM card that isn’t under your name:
Helping a Family Member
If a family member (like an elderly parent or minor) is unable to register their SIM card on their own, you might need to complete the registration on their behalf.
Business or Work-Related SIMs
In the case of business or company-issued SIM cards, the SIM may be under the name of a company representative, but you may need to complete the registration due to a change in the account holder or reassignment of duties.
SIM Card Transfer
If you’ve bought a secondhand SIM or inherited a family member’s number, you might need to register it under your name to comply with the SIM Registration Act.
Unregistered SIM
In cases where the SIM card was originally not registered by the previous owner, it must be registered in the new owner’s name to avoid SIM deactivation after the deadline.
Can You Register a SIM That’s Not in Your Name?
The SIM Registration Act is clear about the need to register SIM cards under the real identity of the user. However, if the SIM is not in your name, there are ways to register it, depending on the situation: You can also read: GlobeOne App Keeps Crashing During SIM Registration
Registering a SIM for a Family Member or Minor
If you are helping a family member or a minor register their SIM, you, as the parent or guardian, can act as the registrant and submit your details to complete the process. The SIM card will still be linked to the minor or family member’s identity, but you’ll be responsible for registering it on their behalf.
Requirements for Registering a SIM for Someone Else (Family Member/Minor):
Your valid government-issued ID (parent or guardian).
Minor’s government ID (if available) or other supporting documents, like a birth certificate.
Parent or guardian’s consent is mandatory.
For minors, the parent or guardian must also verify their relationship to the child to complete the registration process. This is the most common situation where the SIM is not in your name, but the process is legally acceptable as long as you have the legal right to act on behalf of the other person.
Registering a SIM for Someone Else (Business or Friend)
If you are registering a SIM card that belongs to someone else — for example, a business SIM or a friend’s SIM — you will need the original owner’s consent and a valid form of identification from the owner.
However, the registration process can only be completed if the real owner agrees to it and provides the necessary documentation to show proof of ownership. If the SIM is transferred to you, you can register it under your name, but the previous owner’s information must be removed or updated.
How to Register a SIM That’s Not in Your Name
Step 1: Obtain Permission and Documents from the Real Owner
Before attempting to register the SIM card, make sure you get the consent of the real owner if the SIM is under someone else’s name. Here’s what you’ll need:
For a Family Member/Minor: Parent or guardian’s valid government ID.
Minor’s supporting documents (e.g., birth certificate, school ID).
For a Business SIM: Business registration documents (e.g., business permit, Certificate of Business Registration).
Authorized representative’s ID (if the business is transferring ownership or registering on behalf of the company).
For a SIM Card Transfer (Secondhand SIM or Inherited SIM): Previous owner’s consent (if available).
Proof of SIM ownership, like the SIM card packaging or a receipt showing the SIM’s purchase details.
Step 2: Go to the Globe SIM Registration Portal or App
To begin the registration process:
Visit the official Globe SIM registration portal via your browser or download the GlobeOne app on your mobile device.
Enter the 13‑digit SIM number found on the SIM card packaging.
Fill out the registration form with the real owner’s details (if registering for someone else), including: Full name
Address
Date of birth (if registering for a minor)
Upload the required documents (government-issued IDs, supporting documents like the birth certificate, etc.).
Step 3: Complete the Verification Process
Once you’ve submitted the details, you will be asked to complete a verification process to ensure the SIM registration is legitimate. This usually involves:
Receiving an OTP (One-Time Password): The OTP will be sent to the SIM you’re registering (or the real owner’s SIM if they’re the one registering).
Enter the OTP on the registration portal to confirm the SIM’s activation and ownership.
Confirmation
Once the registration is completed, Globe will send a confirmation message via SMS to the registered number to confirm that the SIM card is successfully registered.
Tip: Keep the confirmation for future reference in case any issues arise later on.
What Happens if You Fail to Register the SIM?
If the SIM card is not registered by the deadline, the Globe SIM card will be deactivated, and the following will happen:
No mobile service: You won’t be able to make calls, send texts, or use mobile data.
Loss of access: Any services linked to the SIM (like GCash, mobile banking apps, or 2FA verification) will be inaccessible.
Therefore, you must register the SIM as soon as possible to avoid these disruptions.
Challenges You May Encounter When Registering a SIM Not in Your Name
Missing or Invalid Documents
When registering someone else’s SIM, you may encounter issues with missing or invalid documents. For example, if the original owner’s ID has expired or is unclear, registration may be rejected.
Solution: Make sure the documents are valid, clear, and up-to-date. In case of missing documents, ask the real owner to provide alternative forms of identification.
Incorrect Information
If the details entered for the SIM registration do not match the official information on the ID or documents, the system will reject the registration.
Solution: Double-check the name, address, and birthdate before submitting. Ensure everything matches exactly as it appears on the government-issued ID.
Parental or Guardian Consent for Minors
When registering a SIM for a minor, you must ensure that the registration form reflects the guardian’s details and that you have the required consent from the parent/guardian.
Solution: Make sure the parent or guardian is available to provide consent and documentation for the minor’s SIM registration.
FAQs
Final Words
Registering a SIM card that’s not in your name is possible as long as you follow the correct steps and gather the necessary documentation. Whether you’re registering for a family member, a minor, or a business, ensuring that you provide accurate details and valid documents is crucial to avoid complications.
If you encounter any issues or require assistance during the process, contact Globe customer support or visit a Globe store for further guidance.
By following the right process, you can easily ensure that the SIM card remains activated and compliant with the SIM Registration Act, avoiding any service disruptions.
