Porting your mobile number

Moving your phone number from one network to another is called porting, and it’s a very straightforward process. You can do this whether you are switching to a new SIM only (bill pay) or prepay deal. This applies to both physical SIM cards and eSIMs, the latter of which allows for near-instant switching. Once the move is complete, your new provider will arrange for your old service to be cancelled, allowing you to keep your existing mobile number.

How does porting work?

The porting process is handled directly by your new provider. To move your number, you simply need to provide your new network with your mobile number and, in the case of bill pay, your account number.

Various ways to initiate a porting request

  • Online: When ordering your new SIM or eSIM on the provider’s website, select the option to Move my number. With an eSIM, your porting process can often begin immediately after purchase.
  • In-store: Visit a retail outlet of your new provider, and they can process the porting request on the spot.
  • Via app: Most Irish networks allow you to trigger the move through their official app once you have received your new SIM.

For security, you will usually receive a text message with a temporary authorisation code (sometimes called a porting PIN) from your current provider to confirm that you authorised the move. You simply give this code to your new provider to finish the process. This verification step is a mandatory security measure required by ComReg to protect your number from unauthorised transfers.

How to port your phone number to another network

If you are on a bill pay plan, start by checking your contract status with your current provider. If you are still within your minimum commitment period (usually 12 or 24 months), you may have to pay an early termination fee to cover the remaining months of your contract.

If you are “out of contract” you are free to switch at any time. However, keep in mind that most bill pay plans require a 30-day notice period. When you port your number, it automatically serves as your notice to cancel. Your old contract ends the moment the port completes, though you will receive a final pro-rata bill for any days used up to that point. It is always worth double-checking with your provider to avoid any final unexpected bills.

The porting process step by step

  1. Get your details ready: Have your current mobile number and your account number (found on your bill or app) to hand.
  2. Order your new SIM: Choose your new SIM only or prepay plan.
  3. Submit the request: You can do this during the checkout process or after your new SIM arrives.
  4. Wait for the switch: Once the request is submitted, your old SIM will lose signal, and your number will move to the new SIM. This usually happens within two to four hours during standard business hours.

Can I port my number with a prepay plan?

Yes, you can absolutely move your number if you are on prepay. It is even simpler than bill pay because there are no contracts or notice periods to worry about. Just make sure your current SIM is active and in a phone, as you will need to receive a verification text to confirm the move. 

While credit generally doesn’t transfer between networks, Irish regulations allow you to request a refund of your remaining balance from your old provider, though a small administrative fee may apply. Alternatively, it is a good idea to use it up before you switch.

Can I port my number if I am still in contract?

If you are still in a contract, you can still port your number, but your current provider will charge you for the remainder of the term. This is known as an early termination fee. If you don’t want to wait for the contract to end, you can contact your provider to find out exactly what the buy-out cost would be. Once you are happy to proceed, your new network can start the porting process immediately.