Before you start
- Your current SIM, active and able to receive texts
- Valid ID for SIM registration with the new network
- Your account number and PIN, if you’re on a contract
Method 1 Get ready before you switch
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Step 1: Keep the old line active
Don’t cancel your current plan or let the SIM expire. Once a number is disconnected, it usually can’t be ported.
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Step 2: Check what you owe
On a contract, ask about early termination fees or a remaining phone balance. On prepaid, use up your airtime and bundles, because they don’t move with the number.
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Step 3: Check the new phone works
If you’re keeping your phone, make sure it’s unlocked and supports the new network’s bands, or ask the new network for a compatible SIM or eSIM.
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Step 4: Back up your texts and 2-step codes
Your number stays the same, but save anything stored on the SIM and make sure you can still get verification codes for banking and email during the switch.
Method 2 Request your porting code
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Step 1: United Kingdom
Text PAC to 65075 from the phone you’re moving. You’ll get a Porting Authorisation Code by text, valid for 30 days. Text INFO to 87075 to check for exit fees first.
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Step 2: United States
Get your account number and a number transfer PIN from your current carrier’s app or website, or from customer service. The new carrier asks for both.
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Step 3: India
Text PORT followed by a space and your 10-digit number to 1900. You’ll receive a Unique Porting Code (UPC) from 1901. Use it quickly; it expires after a few days in most areas.
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Step 4: Other countries
Many countries don’t use a code. You simply visit or contact the new network with your SIM and ID, and it requests the port. In Nigeria, all networks use the harmonised short code 3232 for number porting.
Method 3 Complete the switch with the new network
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Step 1: Sign up
Choose your new plan in-store or online and say you want to keep your number. Enter your number and porting code or PIN.
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Step 2: Register the SIM
Provide your ID as required for SIM registration in your country.
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Step 3: Wait for the switch
You keep service on the old SIM until the move happens. Most ports finish within one working day in the UK and US, and in three to five working days in India.
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Step 4: Swap SIMs and test
When the old SIM loses signal or you get a confirmation text, insert the new SIM or activate the eSIM, restart the phone and make a test call.
Troubleshooting
The port was rejected
The details must match your old account exactly. Check the number, account number, PIN and name, and make sure your SIM is registered and not suspended for unpaid bills.
I can’t receive texts or calls after the switch
Restart the phone, check that the new SIM is active, and update carrier settings. Calls from some networks can take up to a day to reach you after a port.
Frequently asked questions
Is porting free?
In many countries it’s free or cheap, but contract exit fees still apply. Ask both networks before you switch.
Can I port a prepaid number?
Yes. Prepaid and contract numbers can both be ported, but prepaid balances don’t transfer.
How often can I switch?
Some countries set a minimum time between ports, such as 90 days in India. Check your regulator’s rules.
Summary
Keep your old line active, get your porting code or transfer PIN, and sign up with the new network using that code and your ID. The new network moves your number, usually within a few working days, and your old plan closes automatically.
