Change provider

How to take your cell phone number to the new network

Hundreds of thousands of mobile phone customers switch providers every year, mostly to save money

(Bild: ©Drobot Dean - stock.adobe.com)

In April, many cell phone tariffs will increase because they are linked to inflation. It often pays to switch to a cheaper contract with a different network provider. Keeping your usual cell phone number is easy and free of charge. The "Krone" explains how easy it is.

More than 100,000 cell phone customers have done this number portability in the last few quarters in order to get a better tariff. The process is therefore well established and largely automatic. Strictly speaking, you only have a legal right to do this if you "really" change providers, but not if you only change brands with the same operator (e.g. from A1 to bob, both of which operate in the Telekom Austria network). In fact, however, this is usually accepted, but you should still enquire beforehand as a precaution.

The next step: You must obtain your NÜV information ("number portability information") from the previous network. This has been free of charge since 2022 and confirms the contractual relationship. In addition, the request also counts as termination of the old contract. To be on the safe side, you can also send a formal notice of termination. The NÜV can be requested via the hotline, in one of the operator's stores or by e-mail. This may also be done in a store of the chosen new network operator. In any case, this may take no longer than the working day after next, and the NÜV is then valid for 90 days. So you have enough time during this period to choose another contract at your leisure.

Two steps to the new contract with the old number
You then use this NÜV information to apply for number portability with the new provider. In the case of discounters without their own branches, this is of course only possible via the hotline, the Internet or by purchasing a starter package (e.g. from a grocery store) and activating it. You then send the NÜV with the number transfer order to the selected network operator. You also agree the date for the switchover with the operator, which usually takes place at night so that you don't notice it. However, the so-called porting can take a few days.

It is important to note that neither the old nor the new cell phone network company may charge anything for the process. Only if there is still an outstanding bill do you have to pay it, of course.