How to Set Guest Access Codes in iOS 18 Home App

With the release of iOS 18, Apple introduced dedicated Guest Access controls within the Home app, allowing home administrators to grant temporary entry through compatible smart door locks. This guide explains how home administrators can configure time-limited guest access codes, customize recurring or specific date-based entry schedules, and manage visitor permissions securely without granting access to the rest of the Apple Home ecosystem.

Prerequisites

Before setting up guest codes, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

  • An iPhone running iOS 18 or later.
  • A Home Hub (Apple TV or HomePod) updated to the latest software version.
  • A HomeKit- or Matter-compatible smart lock that supports PIN-based access codes.
  • Upgraded Apple Home architecture enabled on your devices.

Step 1: Enable Guest Access in the Home App

  1. Open the Home app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap the More button (the three dots in the upper-right corner).
  3. Select Home Settings.
  4. Scroll down and tap Guest Access.
  5. Toggle the switch next to Guest Access to the On position.

Step 2: Add a Guest and Assign Smart Locks

  1. In the Guest Access menu, tap Add Guest.
  2. Select a person from your contacts list or enter a name manually.
  3. Choose the specific smart locks the guest is permitted to control by checking the boxes next to each lock.

Step 3: Configure the Access Code

  1. Tap Access Code.
  2. The Home app will automatically generate a secure PIN. You can keep this code or tap it to enter a custom numeric PIN that matches your lock's requirements (typically 4 to 8 digits).

Step 4: Set Time-Limited Schedules

To restrict the guest's entry to specific hours or dates, customize the schedule settings:

  1. Tap Schedule within the guest profile.
  2. Select one of the following schedule types:
    • Specific Times: Use this option for short-term visitors, delivery services, or house sitters. Define a precise Starts date and time, followed by an Ends date and time. Once the end time passes, the code automatically deactivates.
    • Recurring: Use this option for regular visitors such as cleaners, dog walkers, or maintenance staff. Select the days of the week they are permitted to enter and set an allowable time window (for example, Mondays and Thursdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM).
    • Always: Allows indefinite access until manually removed or edited.
  3. Review your selected time parameters and tap Done in the top-right corner.

Step 5: Share the Access Code

Once saved, the Home app displays a summary screen showing the active PIN and the designated schedule. Tap Share Access Code to send the PIN and schedule details directly to your visitor via Messages, Mail, or another messaging platform.

Managing and Revoking Access

To alter schedule limits or immediately revoke a guest's code:

  1. Open the Home app and navigate to Home Settings > Guest Access.
  2. Select the guest's name from the list.
  3. Tap Schedule to change the valid time window, tap the lock toggles to add or remove access to specific doors, or tap Delete Guest at the bottom of the screen to permanently revoke the code.