Last updated: August 2026
The documents are broadly the same for every contract type. What differs sharply is the threshold — because the amount of credit involved varies enormously between a flagship handset and a data-only SIM.
Understanding that is the difference between a declined application and an approved one, since you can often change the outcome simply by asking for less.
Threshold by deal type
| Deal type | Credit involved | Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Two-device bundle | Two handsets financed | Highest — assessed on combined value |
| Flagship handset contract | One expensive device | High |
| Mid-range handset contract | One moderate device | Moderate |
| SIM-only | None — service only | Low |
| Data-only | None | Lowest |
| Prepaid | None — not a credit agreement | No assessment at all |
The documents stay the same
Across all contract types you will generally need identity, proof of address, proof of income and banking details in your own name. See what documents are needed.
What changes is how much scrutiny the affordability calculation applies, and how much room you have if your position is marginal.
Requirements specific to certain types
- SIM-only — you need a working handset, unlocked and supporting the network’s bands.
- Data-only for a tablet — the tablet must be a cellular model with a SIM slot.
- Two-device bundles — each SIM needs separate RICA registration, to whoever uses it.
- Home internet — packages are usually location-locked to a registered address.
- Upgrades — generally reassessed, though payment history helps.
Using this to your advantage
If you expect difficulty, the deal type is the lever. Moving from a flagship to a mid-range handset, or from a handset contract to SIM-only, materially changes what the assessment is being asked to support.
A counter-offer from a provider — a cheaper device or smaller bundle — is that same lever applied by them, and is worth taking seriously.
See cellphone contract requirements, how much phone contract can I afford, SIM only deals and apply online.
Frequently asked questions
Are the documents different for SIM-only?
Broadly the same, but the assessment threshold is lower because no device is financed.
Which contract is easiest to be approved for?
Data-only, then SIM-only. Prepaid involves no assessment at all.
Does a bundle need more documents?
Not more documents, but affordability is assessed on the combined value of both devices.
Can I change deal type after being declined?
Yes, and applying for something smaller often changes the outcome.
More comparisons
These pages cover closely related options worth comparing alongside this one.
- Phone Contract Deals South Africa
- Data Contract Deals South Africa
- Apply For A SIM Only Contract
- Apply For A Data Contract
- Bank Account And Debit Order For A Phone Contract
- Cell C Data Deals
- Phone Contracts For Kids
- Cellphone Contract Application South Africa
- Phone Contract With Bad Credit South Africa
- Sim Only Vs Prepaid
- Data SIM Deals South Africa
Requirements and approval criteria are set by each provider and change regularly. Approval is never guaranteed.