How to keep your number when switching networks
The PAC code process, the timings and what to check before you switch.
Switching network without losing your number takes one text message and about a day. The only part worth slowing down for is checking what your current provider will charge you to leave.
Key takeaways
- Text PAC to 65075 from the mobile you want to move.
- Your current network must send the code within one working day.
- Give the code to your new provider within 30 days.
- Your number usually transfers within one working day of activation.
Switching network without losing your number takes one text message and about a day. The only part worth slowing down for is checking what your current provider will charge you to leave.
Key takeaways
- Text PAC to 65075 from the mobile you want to move.
- Your current network must send the code within one working day.
- Give the code to your new provider within 30 days.
- Your number usually transfers within one working day of activation.
Step 1 — Get your PAC
Text the word PAC to 65075 from the mobile you want to move. Your current network must send your code within one working day. The message also tells you any charges owed on the account you are leaving.
Step 2 — Order your new SIM
Choose your plan and enter the PAC at checkout. The code stays valid for 30 days, so there is no rush, but don't let it expire — you would need to request a new one.
Step 3 — Activation and transfer
Once your new SIM activates, your number usually transfers within one working day. Keep the old SIM in a phone until the transfer completes so you don't miss calls in the gap.
What to check before you switch
Charges on your old contract stop from the switch date, but any early termination fee or cease fee owed to that provider still stands — check this before you request the code.
These tariffs are aimed at new business, so a re-sign or migration within the same network may not qualify for the same pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose service while my number transfers?
Transfers normally complete within one working day of your new SIM activating, and any interruption is short. Keep the old SIM available until the switch completes.
How long is a PAC code valid?
30 days. Give it to your new provider within that window or request a fresh code.
Do I still owe money to my old network?
Charges stop from the switch date, but any early termination fee or cease fee owed under the old agreement remains payable.
Next steps
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose service while my number transfers?
Transfers normally complete within one working day of your new SIM activating, and any interruption is short. Keep the old SIM available until the switch completes.
How long is a PAC code valid?
30 days. Give it to your new provider within that window or request a fresh code.
Do I still owe money to my old network?
Charges stop from the switch date, but any early termination fee or cease fee owed under the old agreement remains payable.
Deals mentioned in this guide
Prices include VAT and show the saving against the network’s own published price where a like-for-like plan exists.
O2 Unlimited
Unlimited streaming and tethering
Fixed for the full 24 month term
Compared against O2 direct, you save £192 over the 24 month term
That’s £8/month less than their £23 price for the same allowance.
Unlimited
Data
24 months
Contract
Vodafone Unlimited
Unlimited streaming and tethering
Fixed for the full 24 month term
Compared against Vodafone direct, you save £216 over the 24 month term
That’s £9/month less than their £26 price for the same allowance.
Unlimited
Data
24 months
Contract