How to Verify Telegram Without a SIM Card
Create and verify a Telegram account using a virtual number, with tips for avoiding common login problems.
By the Sabiverify Team • October 10, 2026 • 2 min read
Telegram requires a phone number to create an account, but it does not have to be the number in your SIM slot. Here is how to register with a virtual number.
Steps
- Log in to Sabiverify and open Virtual Numbers.
- Pick a country and search for Telegram.
- Buy the number and copy it, including the country code.
- Open Telegram, tap Start Messaging and paste the number.
- Telegram sends the code. Telegram may send it inside another Telegram session if you are already logged in elsewhere — for a brand-new number it will be an SMS.
- Read the code from your dashboard and enter it in Telegram.
- Add your name and profile photo and you are done.
Secure the account straight away
- Open Settings → Privacy and Security → Two-Step Verification and set a password plus a recovery email.
- Hide your phone number: in Privacy, set "Who can see my phone number" to Nobody.
- Choose a public username so people can find you without your number.
Why this matters
With a one-time number, you will not be able to receive another login code later. Two-step verification with a recovery email is what keeps you from being locked out — set it before you close the dashboard.
If the code does not arrive
Wait a couple of minutes, avoid pressing resend repeatedly and then cancel and try another number. See our "OTP not received" checklist for the full list.