If the 6-digit code does not arrive, first check that your number is typed correctly, then wait for the timer to finish and ask WhatsApp to call you instead. Most problems come from a wrong number, weak network or a blocked SMS.
Step 1: check the number
- The country must be right (India = +91).
- Type the number without a 0 or +91 in front, for example 98xxxxxxxx.
- If you see a mistake, tap Wrong number? on the code screen and type it again.
Step 2: wait, then ask for a call
- Leave the code screen open and wait for the countdown timer. The SMS can take up to about 10 minutes.
- When the timer ends, tap Didn't receive code? (wording differs a little by version) and choose Call me or Resend SMS.
- Answer the call. An automatic voice reads the 6 digits. Type them into WhatsApp.
- If you added an email to your account earlier, you may also see an option to get the code by email.
Do not keep guessing codes or asking again and again. Too many tries makes WhatsApp lock registration for some hours, and there is no way to speed that up.
Step 3: fix the phone and network
- Put the SIM of that number in the phone, or keep it switched on in another phone. The SIM must have signal (not airplane mode).
- Restart the phone and try again.
- Check your SMS app works: send yourself a normal SMS.
- Turn off any call-blocking, SMS-blocking or "spam filter" apps for a while.
- On Android, check the SMS did not land in a Spam or Blocked folder of the Messages app.
- Abroad? Turn on roaming so SMS and calls can reach you (your operator may charge for this).
- Landline and internet (VoIP) numbers usually do not work.
On Android vs iPhone
On Android, WhatsApp can sometimes read the SMS itself or verify with a missed call if you allow it. On iPhone, the code may show above the keyboard so you can tap it in; otherwise type it yourself. Everything else is the same.
Still nothing?
- Call your mobile operator and ask whether SMS or calls from short codes are blocked on your number (DND or a service block can cause this).
- If WhatsApp asks for a PIN instead of the code, that is two-step verification. Read two-step verification for the "Forgot PIN" steps.
Safety tip
Got a WhatsApp code you did not ask for? Someone typed your number, maybe by mistake, maybe to steal your account. Do nothing and never share that code with anyone, even a friend or someone claiming to be from WhatsApp. Your account stays safe as long as the code stays with you.
This is GroupChatOn’s own easy guide. We are not WhatsApp and are not linked with WhatsApp or Meta. WhatsApp sometimes changes its menus: if a button looks different on your phone, update WhatsApp from the Play Store or App Store.
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Questions, or an error not listed here?
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