How to create or import a crypto wallet without losing funds (GreyWallet guide)

Guides titled “how to create a crypto wallet,” “import seed phrase,” and “restore MetaMask to mobile” all collide on the same workflow. In GreyWallet, create and import share the same advanced controls — so restores stay accurate across Bitcoin, EVM, Solana, Aptos, Sui, XRP, and Tron families.

Create generates a new phrase on the device. Import restores a phrase you already hold. Both require the right family, path, and index for the account you intend to use.

Before you start

• Install GreyWallet only from the official App Store or Google Play links on greywallet.app/download.
• Set aside offline time to write the phrase — do not multitask through backup.
• If importing, gather the original family, path, and index from the wallet you used before.
• Never type a phrase into a website “importer.”

Create a new wallet

1. 01Open GreyWallet and choose create.
2. 02Select phrase length (18, 21, or 24).
3. 03Choose the chain family for the account you will fund first.
4. 04Review the default derivation path — customize only if you have a deliberate reason.
5. 05Set the account index (default 0 for the first account).
6. 06Write the phrase offline, confirm it in-app, then fund with a small test amount.

Import an existing wallet

Import is where most lost-fund tickets begin — not because phrases are wrong, but because path or index differs from the original tool.

1. 01Choose import and enter the recovery phrase in the app.
2. 02Select the chain family the original account used.
3. 03Set the derivation path to the original (default or custom).
4. 04Set the account index to the original index.
5. 05Open the correct network view (especially for EVM L2s).
6. 06Confirm balances; if empty, reverse the checklist before assuming funds are gone.

Empty after import? Check network first, then family, path, and index. Wrong path looks exactly like an empty wallet.

Troubleshooting order

Create vs import — quick comparison

• Create — new phrase, you define path/index going forward; record what you chose.
• Import — existing phrase, you must match history; guessing defaults can miss funds.
• Both — self-custody on device; GreyWallet does not keep a copy of the phrase for you.

After funds arrive

Use Receive only on the network you intend. Add trusted addresses to the address book when helpful. For privacy separation on the same phone, configure Private Vaults after the main wallet is stable — not before you have a verified backup.

Next steps

Full sequences live in Docs under Create a wallet and Import a wallet. Derivation deep-dives are in Features → Advanced derivation and the Journal note on phrase, path, and index. When you are ready, download GreyWallet for iOS or Android and run a test receive before moving size.