You can switch UK mobile provider and keep your number without negotiating with your old provider. For a single number, text PAC to 65075, give the code to the new provider and keep the old service active until the switch completes.
Important: switching the mobile service does not necessarily settle a separate handset finance agreement. Check both before you move.
Choose the correct switching code
| What you want | Text | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Keep your existing number | PAC to 65075 | You receive a Porting Authorisation Code |
| Switch and take a new number | STAC to 75075 | You receive a Service Termination Authorisation Code |
| Check whether leaving charges may apply | INFO to 85075 | You receive contract-status information without starting a switch |
The text service is for switching one number. For multiple numbers on the same account, use the provider's online or telephone process.
Step-by-step: keep your number
- Check the agreement. Confirm the airtime minimum term, any early termination charge and any separate device balance.
- Choose the new service. Check coverage where you use the phone, allowance, price rises, minimum term and roaming needs.
- Request the PAC. The provider should reply to the text request within one minute. The code is valid for 30 days.
- Give the PAC to the new provider. Agree the intended porting date and keep the confirmation.
- Keep both SIMs available. The old service may work until the number moves. Do not dispose of the old SIM before the switch is complete.
- Check the result. Test incoming and outgoing calls, texts and access to important accounts that use the number.
- Review the final bill. Confirm the old airtime service closed on the switching date and that any separate device plan is treated as agreed.
How long should it take?
After the new provider receives the PAC or STAC, the switch must be completed within one working day. The old provider must not charge for a notice period extending beyond the switching date. If the switch is delayed or the process is abused, reasonable compensation may be due.
Avoid the most common switching mistakes
- Do not cancel first if you intend to use PAC or STAC. A separate cancellation can complicate the transfer.
- Do not confuse airtime with handset finance. A switch can close the service while device repayments continue.
- Do not leave number-dependent security until the last minute. Check that your bank, email and other important services have an alternative recovery method.
- Do not choose by price alone. A cheaper tariff is poor value if coverage is unreliable in the places that matter.
- Do not assume an unused PAC cancels anything. If the code expires without use, the old service normally continues.
If you already cancelled
You can still request to keep the old number for free within one month of cancelling. Contact the former provider for the PAC if it was not supplied when the service ended.
Before taking a replacement contract, use the full contract-cost checklist rather than comparing only the advertised monthly price.
Related guidance: Return to Phone Deals and Contracts for related options, then use the Phone Contract Cost Guide before committing to the final choice.
Sources and date checked
Last fact-checked: 25 July 2026. Provider terms, product ranges and interfaces can change. Check the documents offered for your own account before acting.
