Tech blog Tekrieg published a report on how you can unlock your Samsung Galaxy S3 and Note 2.

Below is the step-

by-step procedure on how to unlock your Samsung devices.
Step 1 - Take out your SIM card and put one in from one of the other carriers then turn off the device and turn it back
on.
Step 2 - Enter *#197328640# on the dialpad.
Step 3 - Go to Main Menu menu > [1] UMTS > [1] Debug Screen > [8] Phone Control > [6] Network Lock > Options
[3] Perso SHA256 OFF.
Step 4 - Wait for 30 seconds before going back to the Main Menu then back.
Step 5 - You should see "Network Lock" now. Choose [4] NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ.
Otro metodo
Confirmed to work on GSM-only S3/Note 2 variants
Just dial the following keys *#197328640#
Main Menu > [1] UMTS > [1] Debug Screen > [8] Phone Control > [6] Network Lock
> Options [3]Perso SHA256 OFF > (after choosing this option, wait about 30 seconds,
then go back one step by pressing the Menu button then select Back, now you are in [6]
Network Lock then choose [4] NW Lock NV Data INITIALLIZ ..... wait for a minute
then reboot your phone... enjoy!!!
*This is a PERMANENT UNLOCK, and does NOT trigger anything for warranty (but
you still do this at your own risk)
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=34661189&postcount=1
Credit to owl74 from xda-developers.
Edit: This will unlock your GSM phone to work on other domestic and international
GSM-based carriers, like AT&T, T-mobile, etc using that' carrier's SIM card. Typically
a phone-branded/offered by a carrier will be locked to their network only and usually
they will give you the unlock codes after a considerable length of time of service with
the phone.
Edit2: Those who are having trouble.
1) PLUG IN THE FOREIGN SIM CARD FIRST
2) BOOT up the phone with the different sim card, then it will ask for unlock code.
CLICK DISMISS
3) Then perform the process above
4) be sure to WAIT AT LEAST EXACTLY where it says wait 30 sec, and wait 1min
then reboot
Edit3: Looks like you need to be running stock ROM for it work.