Yes, unlocking phones is legal in Brazil under Anatel’s 2023 Resolution 740, provided it complies with carrier unlocking policies and consumer rights. The regulator mandates carriers to unlock devices upon request after contract fulfillment, aligning with Brazil’s Consumer Defense Code. Unauthorized third-party unlocking remains unregulated but risks voiding warranties or violating carrier terms.
Key Regulations for Unlocking Phones in Brazil
- Anatel Resolution 740 (2023): Mandates carriers to unlock devices post-contract termination or early payment, with no additional fees. Non-compliance may trigger fines up to R$10 million.
- Consumer Defense Code (Law 8.078/1990): Prohibits carriers from imposing unjustified restrictions on device portability, including IMEI blocking or software locks.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: Anatel’s upcoming Plano de Atualização Regulatória will require carriers to unlock devices within 72 hours of request, failing which administrative penalties apply.
Carriers like Vivo, Claro, and TIM must adhere to these rules, though unofficial unlocking services operate in a legal gray area. Consumers should request unlocking directly from providers to avoid warranty disputes or device bricking risks. Anatel’s 2024 audits target non-compliant carriers, emphasizing enforcement.