Foreigners who visit or live in the Philippines must now register their SIM cards under the SIM Registration Act (Republic Act No. 11934). This means that whether you are a tourist using a prepaid TM SIM or a foreign resident with a postpaid plan you must register your SIM to keep it active.
In this guide you will learn about the requirements, steps to register, validity period and important rules for TM SIM Registration for Foreigners in the Philippines.
What Is the SIM Registration Act (RA 11934)?
SIM Registration Act is a law made to protect mobile users, reduce scams and make mobile communication safer and more accountable. It started on December 27, 2022 and it requires everyone both Filipino citizens and foreigners to register their SIM cards before they can use them. This law is carried out by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) together with major telecom companies like Globe, TM and Smart.
Who Needs to Register a TM SIM in the Philippines?
Everyone who uses a TM SIM must register it before using it for calls, texts or mobile data this includes foreign nationals.
Here is who needs to register:
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Tourists using temporary prepaid SIM cards.
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Foreign workers or expatriates with valid work visas.
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Students studying in the Philippines.
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Long-term residents or retirees with valid alien registration cards.
Types of Foreigners Covered Under the Law
The SIM registration rules for foreigners in the Philippines depend on how long you are staying and what type of visa you have.
1. Tourists (Short-Term Visitors)
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SIM registration is valid for 30 days only.
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It will be automatically deactivated after 30 days unless you extend your stay with a new visa.
2. Foreign Residents or Workers (Long-Term Stay)
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Your SIM registration stays valid for your entire stay in the Philippines.
3. Students (Study Visa Holders)
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You must present your school ID, proof of enrollment and student visa documents to register your SIM.
Requirements Of TM SIM Registration for Foreigners
If you are a foreigner in the Philippines and want to register a TM SIM you will need to prepare some important documents.
For Tourists (Short-Term Stay)
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Valid passport (bio-page and visa stamp)
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Proof of local address (like a hotel booking, Airbnb reservation or local affidavit)
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Return ticket showing your departure date within 30 days
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1 clear selfie photo for identity verification
For Long-Term Foreign Residents, Workers or Students
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Passport with the visa page
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Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR I-Card)
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Alien Employment Permit (AEP) or Student ID (if applicable)
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Proof of local address (such as a utility bill, lease contract or barangay certificate)
How to Register a TM SIM for Foreigners (Step-by-Step Guide)
Foreigners can register their TM SIM either online or by visiting a Globe or TM Store in person.
TM SIM Online Registration
Step 1: Go to the official registration portal: https://new.globe.com.ph/simreg
Step 2: Enter your TM mobile number and click on “Register.”
Step 3: Enter the OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your phone.
Step 4: Fill in your personal information Like your name, Date of birth, gender, nationality and address.
Step 5: Upload your documents (passport, visa and proof of address).
Step 6: Review your details then confirm and submit your registration.
Step 7: You will get a confirmation message or reference code once your registration is approved.
After registration you can easily check your TM SIM Status Online.
In-Store Registration
If you can’t register online visit the nearest Globe or TM Store.
Bring all your required documents and the staff will help you verify and register your SIM in person.
