If you want to delete your Telegram account, you won’t find a direct option in the app. Unlike some platforms that allow you to deactivate with a few taps, Telegram requires you to use a separate web page. The process is straightforward but not widely known.
You need to visit the official Telegram deactivation page, enter your phone number, and confirm the request using an OTP sent via Telegram. Once you complete the steps, your account is removed immediately.
If you want an alternative, you can set your account to auto-delete after a period of inactivity.
Deleting your account permanently erases all your messages, contacts, and groups. You can’t recover them later. Creating a new Telegram account with the same number will start fresh without any old data.
If you are sure you want to leave Telegram, follow the steps below to delete your account permanently.
How Do I Delete My Telegram Account Permanently?
Deleting your Telegram account takes less than five minutes. You’ll need access to the phone number linked to your account and a working internet connection. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit [telegram.org/deactivate](https://telegram.org/deactivate) using any web browser. This page is the only way to delete your account—it’s not available in the app.
- Type the full phone number associated with your Telegram account, including the country code (e.g., +1 for the U.S.).
- Click “Next.” Telegram sends a login code via its app (not SMS). You must be logged into Telegram on any device to get the code.
- Enter the code on the deactivation page. A final screen asks, “Delete Your Account?” Check the box confirming you understand this erases all data, then click “Delete My Account.”
- Telegram will ask why you’re leaving. You can skip this or provide a reason.
What Happens When You Permanently Delete Telegram Account?
Deleting your Telegram account erases all data tied to it.
Here’s what changes instantly:
- All messages and media disappear: Chats, photos, videos, and files in your account are removed from Telegram’s servers.
- Groups and channels: You’re automatically removed from the groups you joined. If you created a group, they’re instantly orphaned without a creator but admins retain their rights.
- Contacts: Your profile (name, bio, username) becomes invisible. Contacts can’t message you or see your online status.
- Usernames and phone numbers: These are freed up for reuse. Someone else can claim your username or link your old number to a new account.
You lose access to bots, saved payments (if any), and settings tied to the account. Telegram does not retain backups of deleted accounts.
Will My Contacts Know If I Delete My Telegram Account?
Telegram does not notify your contacts when you delete your account.
However, they might notice indirect changes:
- Your profile photo and name turn into “Deleted Account” in their chat list.
- Messages you sent remain in their chats but show “Deleted Account” as the sender.
- Group interactions: If you were in shared groups, your comments and posts stay visible but display “Deleted Account” as the author.
- Your profile will disappear.
Your contacts will notice your account is gone, but they won’t get a notification.
FAQs
How Do I Delete My Telegram Account Permanently?
- Go to telegram.org/deactivate.
- Enter your phone number (with country code).
- Check Telegram for an OTP and enter it on the page.
- Confirm deletion and submit.
Deletion is instant. You can’t recover the account afterward.
How Do I Delete My Telegram Account in 2025?
The process remains the same:
- Visit telegram.org/deactivate.
- Enter your phone number.
- Receive and enter the OTP.
- Confirm deletion.
If you lose access to your number, use the auto-delete feature (inactive accounts self-destruct after 6-24 months).
How Can I Delete My Telegram Account Faster?
- Use the deactivation page on a browser instead of the app.
- Log out of other devices first to avoid OTP delays.
- Have your phone number ready in international format (e.g., +1208).
Conclusion
Deleting your Telegram account is quick but permanent. You need to visit the deactivation page, enter your phone number, and confirm the request using an OTP.
If you prefer a slower method, you can set your account to auto-delete after inactivity.
Before deleting:
- Export chats or files you want to keep.
- Leave or delete groups you manage
- Inform contacts if necessary—they won’t get a notification.
Once deleted, your data cannot be restored. If you create a new account with the same number, it will start from scratch.
