When you pick an eSIM for your next trip, one tiny code does all the work: the IMEI. Those 15 digits act like a passport for your phone – proving its identity, showing if it is unlocked, and letting carriers or police block it if it is lost. This guide explains “What is an IMEI number?” and why every traveler using an eSIM should know theirs.
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An IMEI – short for International Mobile Equipment Identity – is a permanent, 15-digit code that every mobile phone, tablet, LTE laptop or smartwatch receives at the factory. It acts as your device’s passport number.
An IMEI is divided into three logical blocks:
You can think of it as: [TAC: 8 digits] + [Serial: 6 digits] + [Check: 1 digit] = 15-digit IMEI.
With a single IMEI, you will know:
In short, the IMEI number is your device’s identity card. Knowing this number protects you both legally and technically.
Let’s look at this table to understand each code:
| Code | Identifies | Typical length | Used for |
| IMEI | The physical device | 15 digits | Unlock status, blacklist checks, network provisioning |
| ICCID | Your SIM or eSIM profile | 19-20 digits | Activating a carrier plan (Gigago uses this) |
| MEID | Legacy CDMA devices (mainly US) | 14 hex digits | Same purpose as IMEI on older networks |
If you add an eSIM, it will replace the ICCID but your IMEI stays exactly the same.
It takes less than 30 seconds to check your IMEI. You can use one of the three following ways to check:
Open the Phone/Dialer app, dial *#06# and tap call. The IMEI will pop up instantly without requiring a SIM card, signal or WiFi.
On iOS:
On Android:
You can remove the SIM tray and look along its edge to find IMEI information. Many phones print the IMEI there in tiny page.
Some older models laser-etch it on the back casing or beneath the battery.
In some cases, the IMEI is printed on the retail box’s barcode label and listed on most purchase receipts or carrier invoices.
Tip: It is highly recommended to note this number down somewhere. If your phone is lost or stolen, the IMEI number can be used to block the device.
Checking the IMEI number is an important step, especially if you buy a 2nd phone. With it, you will find out if the device is legally registered, whether it is reported as stolen or if it requires registration if imported.
Take these IMEI-related steps before you travel abroad to have a safe and smooth trip:
No. The IMEI is hard-wired to the device hardware and never changes when you swap physical SIMs or add an eSIM profile.
Yes, with legitimate parties (carrier, police). Posting it publicly is not recommended, but criminals cannot hack your phone with IMEI alone.
Usually yes. Many carriers and third-party services generate an unlock code from your IMEI. Make sure your phone is fully unlocked before you purchase an eSIM.
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