Microsoft Authenticator backup codes from old Authenticator do not exist

Those restored 6-digit entries are expected only for accounts that use one-time password codes. For Microsoft work or school accounts, and for accounts that also use passwordless sign-in, only the account name is restored. After restore, those accounts must be signed in and set up again.

What to do:

1. Open the affected account entry in Microsoft Authenticator.
2. If it shows "Sign in to add your account", sign in again to complete setup. This is expected after restoring work or school accounts.
3. If the account is a passkey-based sign-in, create a new passkey on the new phone first. Remove old passkeys only after the new one works.
4. If authentication still fails, check these common causes:
   • Authenticator is unlocked
   • Notifications are enabled
   • The app is updated
   • The phone has internet access
   • Date and time are correct
5. If the old phone backup was not enabled, or the restored entry still cannot be used, add the account again. For work or school accounts, sign in again to complete setup. For other services, re-add the account with that service’s setup process.

Important limits:

• Backup and restore works only on the same device type. Android backups restore to Android, not iPhone.
• For work or school accounts, only the account name is restored, not a fully working sign-in configuration.
• If a passkey existed only on the old phone, it does not transfer through Authenticator backup.

• Transfer Microsoft Authenticator account entries to a new phone
• Back up your accounts in Microsoft Authenticator
• Restore account credentials from Microsoft Authenticator
• Troubleshoot problems with Microsoft Authenticator
• Troubleshoot signing in with a passkey