4 min read
Why Instagram asks for a phone number
Instagram asks for a phone number at sign-up, and later when it decides the account needs checking, for example after a new login or a lot of activity. It sends a 6-digit code by SMS.
Can you skip the phone on Instagram?
You can create an Instagram account with an email address. The phone screen usually appears later, as a security check you can’t skip without a number.
Your options without a SIM card
Instagram is strict with free VoIP numbers and public SMS sites: the code may never come, or the number is already linked to other accounts.
- Email or Google/Apple sign-in, when the app allows it. Free, and no number at all.
- A second SIM or eSIM. Costs a monthly plan, but the number stays yours.
- A private temporary number from CoveSMS. Only you see the code, and you pay nothing if it doesn’t arrive within 20 minutes.
Step by step: get the Instagram code online
- Buy an Instagram number in your dashboard.
- On the verification screen, choose the country and paste the number.
- Tap Next and wait for the code to appear in your dashboard.
- Type the 6 digits in Instagram.
If the code doesn’t arrive
- If Instagram says “Please wait a few minutes before you try again”, it is limiting your device or connection, not the number. Wait before buying another.
- Switching from Wi-Fi to mobile data (or the other way) before asking for the code sometimes helps.
- No code within 20 minutes means the price goes back to your balance automatically.
After you’re in: stop depending on the number
A temporary number is single-use. Set up another way in before it closes:
- Add and confirm your email in Accounts Center › Personal details › Contact info.
- Turn on two-factor authentication with an authenticator app (Accounts Center › Password and security).
- Save the backup codes Instagram shows you somewhere safe.