O2 PAC Code: keep your number and switch networks

Joining O2 from another network and keeping your number

To keep your number, request a PAC code from your current network and give it to O2.

You can usually give O2 your PAC code when you order, or after your new SIM card or eSIM has been activated.

1. Request a PAC Code from your current network

You do not need to change your number when you join O2.

Request a PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) from your current network using one of these methods:

• Text: From your current phone, text "PAC" to 65075. You will receive a text back with your code within a minute. This is a free service from Ofcom (the UK's communications regulator).
• Online: Some networks will allow you to log in to your current online account and request your PAC code.
• Phone: Call your current provider's customer service phone number from your current phone.

Requesting a PAC does not cancel anything. Your current plan carries on as normal until the code is used, and if you never use it, it simply expires after 30 days.

The text with your PAC will also show any early exit fees you would pay or credit you would lose by switching, so check it before you hand the code over.

2. Order a SIM only deal from O2

If you have not ordered yet, compare current O2 SIM only deals below.

If you already have your new SIM, continue to Step 3.

If O2 asks for your PAC code during checkout, enter it there. If not, wait for your new SIM or eSIM to activate, then give O2 the PAC code using the method below.

3. Give the PAC code to O2

Once you have your PAC code, here is how to give it to O2:

• Online: Enter your PAC code at checkout when you order, or log in to My O2: on the website go to Switch to O2, then Move my number; in the app go to Support, then Keep your number.
• Phone: Call 202 from your O2 phone or 0344 809 0202 from any other phone.
• In-store: Visit an O2 store and give a member of staff your PAC code.

O2 usually completes the switch by 4pm on the transfer day, and by 10pm at the latest.

4. Wait for your number transfer to O2 to complete

O2 will send the transfer request to your current network.

Your number should move to your new O2 SIM within 1 to 2 working days.

Leaving O2: transfer and switch your O2 number to a different network

To leave O2 and keep your number, request a PAC code from O2 and give it to your new network.

You can usually give your new network the PAC code when you order, or after your new SIM card or eSIM has been activated.

1. Request a PAC Code from O2

Here is how to get your PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) from O2:

• Text: Text "PAC" to 65075 from your O2 phone. You will get a text back with your code within a minute. This is a free service from Ofcom (the UK's communications regulator). If you have multiple numbers on your account or an Apple Watch plan, the text service will not work: use My O2 or call instead.
• Online: Log in to My O2 and request your PAC code from your account.
• Phone: Call 202 from your O2 phone or 0344 809 0202 from any other phone.
• In-store: Visit an O2 store and request to leave.

2. Order a SIM only deal

If you have not ordered yet, compare current SIM only deals below.

If you already have your new SIM, continue to Step 3.

If your new network asks for your PAC code during checkout, enter it there. If not, wait for your new SIM or eSIM to activate, then give your new network the PAC code using its transfer process.

3. Give the PAC code to your new network

Once you have your PAC code, here is how to give it to your network:

• Online: When you order your new SIM card online, you can enter your PAC code.
• Phone: Call your new network's customer service number and provide them with your PAC code.
• In-store: If your new network has a store you can visit a store, and a staff member will help you transfer your number using your PAC code.

Your new network will handle the transfer. Give them your PAC code within 30 days of receiving it — after that it expires and you will need to request a new one from O2.

If you want a new number instead, text STAC to 75075 and give the code to your new network.

4. Wait for your number transfer to your network to complete

Your new network will send the transfer request to O2.

Your O2 number should move to your new SIM within 1 to 2 working days.