WeChat Verification Code Not Received? 7 Fixes

WeChat code not arriving? Check the number and country code, wait a minute before asking again, and look in filtered texts and your email. 7 fixes, in order.

Check these first (30 seconds)

• Number and country. Choose the country from the list and drop the leading 0.
• Filtered texts. Look in spam and "unknown senders".
• Email. WeChat may have sent the code to your email instead.
• The wait. Give it a minute or two before asking again.

What the message means

7 fixes, in order

1. Re-enter the number. One wrong digit sends the code to someone else.
2. Ask once, then wait. Each new request counts toward the limit.
3. Try email or a call. Use another delivery option if the app offers one.
4. Turn off filters. Pause spam filters, blockers and Do Not Disturb, and allow short-code texts.
5. Update WeChat or use the website. An old app version can fail at the code step.
6. Switch network. Try mobile data instead of Wi-Fi or the reverse, and turn off VPNs.
7. Wait out a limit. After "too many attempts", stop for a few hours.

About WeChat

WeChat registers to a phone number and sometimes asks an existing WeChat user to scan a QR code to confirm you. The friend check is a WeChat safety step; a phone code alone may not be enough.

When your number never gets the code

If your own number never gets the code, a non-VoIP number from a real mobile carrier can. On SMS Pin Verify you can pick a USA number for WeChat and read the code on your dashboard. A one-time number is held for 15 minutes and costs nothing if no code arrives; a rental keeps the same number for days, which you need if WeChat will send a code again later.

FAQ

Why is WeChat not sending my code?

Usually a mistyped number, filtered texts, a rate limit, or a number type the app refuses.

How long should I wait for the WeChat code?

A minute or two; after "too many attempts", a few hours.

Can WeChat send the code by email?

Many apps offer email; check the code screen for "try another way".

Do virtual numbers work for WeChat?

Non-VoIP mobile numbers usually do; VoIP and free public numbers often fail.

Why does WeChat say the code is wrong?

You typed an older code or it expired. Use the newest code within a few minutes.

Can I get the WeChat code while abroad?

Yes if roaming texts are allowed on your plan; otherwise use Wi-Fi with email or app codes.

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