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# WhatsApp verification code not received? How to fix it
- URL: https://chale.tech/whatsapp-verification-code-not-received/
- Published: 2026-10-28T11:30:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-28T11:30:00.000Z
- Description: Waiting for WhatsApp’s six-digit code that never comes? Check the number format, request a phone call instead, and make sure your SIM can receive SMS. Plus why you must never share that code.
- Author: Isaac Nana Yaw Annor
- Tags: How-To, WhatsApp

You install WhatsApp, enter your number, and the six-digit code never arrives. Usually the fix is simple.

## 1\. Check the number format

WhatsApp says to enter your full international number and remove any leading zeros. For Ghana, choose **+233** as the country code and enter your number **without the first 0**: 024 123 4567 becomes +233 24 123 4567.

## 2\. Wait for the timer, then choose “Call me”

If the SMS does not arrive before the timer ends, request a **phone call**. An automated voice reads out the six-digit code.

## 3\. Make sure the SIM can receive messages

- Is the SIM in the phone and showing signal?
- Is the line active, registered with your Ghana Card, and not barred?
- Test by asking a friend to send you an SMS.
- Check your SMS app’s spam or blocked folder.
- WhatsApp also suggests enabling Wi-Fi Calling if you are in a weak-signal area and your phone supports it.

## 4\. Too many attempts?

If you entered the wrong code too many times, WhatsApp locks registration for a period, and there is no way to make this faster. Wait for the countdown.

## 5\. Two-step verification PIN

After the code, WhatsApp may ask for your two-step verification PIN. If you forgot it and added an email, request a reset link. See [how to recover your WhatsApp account](https://chale.tech/recover-whatsapp-account/).

**Never share your WhatsApp code.** If someone asks for “the code we sent you by mistake”, they are trying to steal your account. See [WhatsApp account hacked](https://chale.tech/whatsapp-account-hacked/).

*This guide was checked in October 2026\. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.*

## Common questions

### How does WhatsApp send the code?

By SMS or phone call. WhatsApp says email can be used only when re-registering a number that already has an email on the account.

### Should I add 0 before my number?

No. WhatsApp says to remove leading zeros. For Ghana, choose +233 and enter the number without the first 0.

### I entered the wrong code too many times. What now?

WhatsApp locks registration for a while and there is no way to speed it up. Wait for the timer.

### Can I verify WhatsApp without a code?

No legitimate method skips verification. Sites claiming to do so are scams.

## Sources

- [WhatsApp Help Center: How to register your phone number](https://faq.whatsapp.com/20970873?ref=chale.tech)
- [WhatsApp Help Center: Can’t register phone number](https://faq.whatsapp.com/1369114327051380?ref=chale.tech)
- [WhatsApp Help Center: About registration and two-step verification](https://faq.whatsapp.com/506595211487528?ref=chale.tech)