Here are common issues and solutions:
Is "Sync Contacts" enabled?
Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Contacts.
Make sure the "Sync Contacts" toggle is ON. If it's off, Telegram won't upload your contacts.
Try Re-syncing:
Sometimes toggling "Sync Contacts" OFF and then telegram number database ON again can trigger a fresh sync.
"Delete Synced Contacts" then Re-sync:
If simply toggling doesn't work, go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Contacts and tap "Delete Synced Contacts".
Confirm the deletion.
Then, toggle "Sync Contacts" OFF and immediately ON again. This forces a complete re-upload and re-matching.
Telegram needs permission to access your phone's contacts.
On Android:
Go to Settings > Apps (or Apps & notifications / App management).
Find and tap on "Telegram".
Tap on "Permissions".
Ensure "Contacts" permission is Allowed. If it's denied, enable it.
You might also want to check for "Phone" permission if available.
On iOS (iPhone/iPad):
Go to Settings (the main device settings app, not Telegram's).
Scroll down and tap on "Telegram".
Ensure "Contacts" permission is ON (green toggle).
3. Verify Phone Numbers in Your Contacts.