How to Remove Work Profile from Android

Removing a work profile from your Android device disconnects it from your employer’s management system, deleting all work apps, data, and settings tied to that profile. This is useful when you leave a job, get a new device, or simply want to stop using your personal phone for work. Before you start, ensure you have backed up any personal data you need from work apps (like contacts or notes) because the removal is permanent and cannot be undone.

What You’ll Need

Your Android device with the work profile active.
Your device unlock PIN, pattern, or password (required to confirm the removal).
Optional: A backup of any work-related data you want to keep (e.g., export contacts or files to your personal storage).

Step-by-Step

Open Settings. Swipe down from the top of your screen to open the notification shade, then tap the gear icon to go to your device’s Settings.
Find the Work Profile section. Scroll down and look for “Accounts,” “Users & accounts,” or “Passwords & accounts.” The exact name varies by device (Samsung, Pixel, etc.). On some phones, it’s under “Accounts and backup” or “System.”
Tap on “Work profile.” You should see a separate entry labeled “Work profile” or “Work.” Tap it to open its settings.
Look for the removal option. Inside the work profile settings, tap “Remove work profile,” “Delete work profile,” or “Remove account.” On some devices, you may need to tap the three-dot menu (â‹®) in the top-right corner and select “Remove work profile.”
Confirm the removal. A warning will appear explaining that all work apps, data, and the profile itself will be deleted. Tap “Delete” or “Remove” to proceed.
Enter your device credentials. You’ll be prompted to enter your device’s PIN, pattern, or password to verify it’s you. Do so.
Wait for the process to finish. The device will remove the work profile, which may take a few seconds to a minute. Once done, you’ll see the work apps disappear, and the profile is gone.

Common Mistakes

Not backing up work data: The removal permanently deletes all data in the work profile. If you need any files, contacts, or notes, export them before starting.
Mistaking “Remove account” for “Remove work profile”: On some devices, removing the work profile might be listed as “Remove account.” This is correct, but be careful not to remove your personal Google account instead.
Ignoring the device administrator warning: Some work profiles have device admin privileges. Removing the profile may require you to first deactivate the admin app. If you see a warning about “device administrator,” tap “Deactivate” or “OK” to continue.
Assuming it’s reversible: Once you confirm, there’s no undo. You’ll need your employer to re-enroll the device if you change your mind.

Tips

Use the work profile’s own settings: Some devices let you remove the profile directly from the work profile’s Settings app (the one with the briefcase icon). Open that, go to “Settings,” then “Remove work profile.”
Check if your employer has a policy: Some companies require you to return the device or have IT remove the profile remotely. If you’re unsure, contact your IT department first.
After removal, restart your phone: This clears any leftover cached data and ensures the profile is fully gone.

Troubleshooting

“Remove work profile” is greyed out or missing: This can happen if the device is still enrolled in a device management policy. Go to Settings > Security > Device admin apps, and deactivate any work-related admin apps. Then try again.
The removal fails with an error: Check your internet connection. The device may need to contact the employer’s server to confirm removal. If offline, try again when connected.
Work apps remain after removal: If some apps are left behind, they may have been installed in the personal profile. You can uninstall them manually from your app drawer or Settings > Apps.
You forgot your device PIN: You cannot remove the work profile without it. You’ll need to reset your device (which erases everything) or contact your employer’s IT support for help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will removing the work profile delete my personal apps and data?
A: No, it only removes the work profile and its apps/data. Your personal apps, photos, and messages stay intact.

Q: Can I remove the work profile without my employer knowing?
A: Yes, the removal is done on your device. However, your employer may receive a notification that the device is no longer enrolled, depending on their management software.

Q: What if I accidentally remove the work profile?
A: There’s no way to undo it. You’ll need to ask your employer to re-enroll your device, which may require downloading the company’s MDM app and entering credentials again.

Q: Does removing the work profile free up storage space?
A: Yes, it deletes all work apps and their data, which can free up a significant amount of storage.

Q: Will I still receive work emails after removal?
A: No, work email apps and accounts are removed, so you’ll stop receiving work emails on your device.

Q: Can I remove the work profile from an Android device that’s not rooted?
A: Yes, the steps above work on standard, non-rooted Android devices.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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