How to Activate Vodafone Idea (Vi) SIM Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to activate your Vi SIM, switch to an eSIM, or restore a deactivated number with simple steps.

Written by Gadgets 360 Staff | Updated: 19 February 2025 14:00 IST

Highlights

Activate your Vi SIM via SMS, call, or store visit
eSIM activation available for Android & iPhone
Reactivate deactivated Vi SIM with simple steps

How to Activate Vodafone Idea (Vi) SIM Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

To keep your Vi SIM active and prevent deactivation due to inactivity

Photo Credit: Vi

Vodafone Idea (Vi) is one of the top telecom operators in the country that offers interesting set of features to the customers. So, if you have recently bought a new Vi SIM card and want to experience all the features, you need to first activate it. Activating a SIM is important as it allow the customer to make calls, send SMS or use the internet. So, if you are looking for different ways through which you can activate the new Vi SIM, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will talk in details about how you can use different methods to activate your Vi SIM card.

How to Activate Your New Vodafone Idea (Vi) SIM Card

Here's how you can activate your new Vi SIM by using different methods:

Activate Vi SIM Card via SMS

Open your Message app on your Android or iOS device.
Now, type SIMEX <19 or 20-digit SIM card number> and send it to 55199.
Shortly, you will get an SMS from the 55199 with the last 6 digits of your SIM card number missing.
Send the missing 6 digits back to the same number in the next two hours.
Once done, your Vi SIM will be activated within 20 minutes.

via Phone Call

You can also activate your Vi SIM by giving a phone call to a specific number. Here's how:

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Open the Phone app on your Android or iOS and dial 59059.
Once the call connects, follow the instructions to provide your identification details.
Once you are verified, your new Vi SIM will activate within 24 hours.

Activate Vi SIM Card by Visiting the Nearest Vi Store

If you are not able to use the above-mentioned methods, then you can visit to your nearest Vi Store to activate your new SIM card. Just go to the store with your Aadhaar card and ask the store executive to activate your SIM.

How to Activate Vi eSIM

An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan without a physical SIM card. Vi supports eSIM activation for compatible devices.

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For Android Devices

Text eSIM to 199.
You'll receive a confirmation SMS; reply with 'ESIMY' to confirm.
After a verification call, a QR code will be sent to your registered email.
Add eSIM to Device:

Ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier.
Scan the received QR code.

5.Your eSIM will be activated within 30 minutes of successfully scanning the QR code.

For iPhone Devices

Text eSIM to 199.
Upon receiving a confirmation SMS, reply with 'ESIMY' to confirm.
After a verification call, a QR code will be sent to your registered email.
Add eSIM to Device:

Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Data Plan.
Scan the QR code.

5.Your eSIM will be activated within 30 minutes of successfully scanning the QR code.

How to Activate a Previously Deactivated Vi SIM

If your Vi SIM has been deactivated due to prolonged inactivity or other reasons, you can reactivate it through the following methods:

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Contact Vi Customer Care:

Dial 199 from another Vi number or 1800 123 1234 from any other number.
Request reactivation of your deactivated SIM.
Provide necessary identification details for verification.
The customer care executive will guide you through the reactivation process.

Visit a Vi Store:

Locate your nearest Vi store using the store locator.
Bring valid ID proof and the deactivated SIM card.
The store executive will assist you in reactivating your SIM.

FAQs

What is the Vi SIM activation number?

The Vi SIM activation number is 59059.

How do you check if a Vi SIM is activated?

If the call connects or the message is sent successfully, the SIM is activated and working.

How to keep a Vi SIM active?

One should make at least one call, send an SMS or use mobile data within 90 days helps maintain the connection.

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