Last updated: August 2026
Applying for a SIM only contract works like any contract application, with one important difference: no handset is being financed, so the amount of credit involved is much smaller — and the approval threshold is correspondingly lower.
That makes SIM-only the most accessible contract product, and often the sensible route if a device contract has been declined.
What you need
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Identification | SA ID, or passport and valid permit |
| Proof of address | Usually within three months |
| Proof of income | Payslips, or bank statements if self-employed |
| Banking details | For the debit order |
| A working phone | Unlocked, supporting the network’s bands |
See what documents are needed and cellphone contract requirements.
Check your phone first
The one requirement unique to SIM-only is a handset that works on the network. Two things to confirm:
- Is it unlocked? Phones bought on contract are sometimes locked to that provider until the term completes.
- Does it support the bands? Most recent phones do, but older or imported devices may not.
Choosing the term
- Month-to-month costs more per month but lets you leave. Best while testing a network.
- Fixed term is cheaper monthly once you are confident in coverage.
See month to month SIM only deals.
Keeping your number
Number portability applies, so you can bring your existing number across. Confirm the porting timeline with the provider, and do not cancel anything before the port completes.
What happens after applying
- Identity and document verification.
- Credit and affordability assessment — lower threshold than a device contract, but still applied.
- Outcome, usually quickly.
- SIM delivered or collected, and RICA registered. See RICA requirements.
- Number ported, if applicable.
Approval depends on your circumstances and the provider’s criteria and is not guaranteed. If declined, prepaid involves no credit agreement at all — see prepaid vs contract.
Compare plans on SIM only deals, cheap SIM only deals, provider options at MTN, Vodacom, Telkom and Cell C, or start at apply online.
Frequently asked questions
Is SIM-only easier to be approved for?
The threshold is lower because no handset is financed, though a credit and affordability assessment still applies.
Will my phone work?
Usually, if it is unlocked and supports the network’s bands. Contract handsets may be locked until that term ends.
Can I keep my number?
Yes. Do not cancel your existing service before the port completes.
Should I choose month-to-month?
While testing coverage, yes. A fixed term is cheaper once you are confident.
More comparisons
- Contract Deals
- Sim Only Vs Prepaid
- Cell C Contract Deals
- Apply For Vodacom Contract
- Do Cellphone Contracts Check Credit Score?
- Debit Order Cellphone Contract
Requirements and approval criteria are set by each provider and change regularly. Approval is never guaranteed.