Switching mobile network in Ireland is easier than most people think. You can keep your existing phone number, there's no gap in service, and the whole process takes just a few days. Here's exactly how to do it.
The Quick Version
- Find your account number (from current provider)
- Order new SIM from chosen network
- Request number porting during signup
- Wait for SIM delivery (1-3 days)
- Number transfers automatically (24-48 hours)
That's it. Your old provider is notified automatically—you don't need to contact them to cancel.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Get Your Account Information
Before switching, you need:
Your account number: Found on your bill, in your app, or by texting your current provider.
| Provider | How to Get Account Number |
|---|---|
| Eir | My Eir app or bill |
| Three | My3 app or text FREE to 50272 |
| Vodafone | My Vodafone app or bill |
| GoMo | MyGoMo app |
| 48 | My48 app |
| Tesco Mobile | My Tesco Mobile app |
Your phone number: Obviously you know this.
Your IMEI (optional): Only needed if you're unlocking your phone. Dial *#06# to find it.
Step 2: Check You're Free to Switch
Bill pay customers: Check your contract end date. If you're in contract, you may face early termination fees. After your minimum term, you're usually on a 30-day rolling contract and can leave anytime.
Prepay customers: You can switch anytime. No contract, no notice period.
Phone finance: If you're paying off a phone separately, you must continue those payments even after switching network.
Step 3: Order Your New SIM
Visit your chosen network's website:
- GoMo: gomo.ie
- 48: 48.ie
- Clear Mobile: clearmobile.ie
- Lycamobile: lycamobile.ie
- Tesco Mobile: tescomobile.ie
During signup, select "Keep my existing number" or "Port my number."
Enter:
- Your current phone number
- Your current provider
- Your account number
- A transfer date (minimum 3 days in future)
Step 4: Receive and Insert Your New SIM
Physical SIMs arrive in 1-3 business days. eSIMs are instant.
Don't insert the new SIM yet if you're porting your number. Wait until the scheduled transfer date.
Step 5: Number Transfer Day
On your scheduled date:
- Your old service will stop working
- Insert your new SIM (or activate eSIM)
- Your number transfers to the new network
- This typically completes within 24 hours
During transfer: There may be a brief period (minutes to hours) where you can't make or receive calls. This is normal.
Step 6: Confirm Everything Works
After transfer:
- Make a test call
- Send a test text
- Check mobile data works
- Update any apps that verify by SMS (banking apps, etc.)
Porting Timeline
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Order new SIM | Day 1 |
| SIM arrives | Day 2-4 |
| Earliest port date | Day 4+ (3 days after order) |
| Number transfers | 24 hours from scheduled date |
Total time: 4-6 days typically.
What Happens to Your Old Account?
When you port your number, your old provider is notified automatically. Your account closes on the transfer date.
Bill pay: You'll receive a final bill for usage up to the transfer date. Any credit is typically forfeited.
Prepay: Any remaining credit is forfeited when you leave. Use it up before switching, or accept the loss.
Direct debit: Cancel your direct debit after your final bill is paid to avoid any issues.
Keeping Your Phone
You can keep your existing phone when switching networks, but it may need unlocking.
Is Your Phone Locked?
Phones bought directly from a network (Eir, Three, Vodafone) may be locked to that network.
How to check: Insert a SIM from a different network. If it doesn't work, your phone is locked.
How to Unlock
| Network | Unlock Policy |
|---|---|
| Eir | Free after 6 months, or €20 before |
| Three | Free after contract ends |
| Vodafone | Free after 12 months |
Contact your current provider to request unlocking. You'll need your IMEI number (dial *#06#).
Already Unlocked?
Phones bought SIM-free or from Apple directly are already unlocked. Most phones bought outright (not on contract) are also unlocked.
Switching FAQs
Will I lose my number?
No. Number porting transfers your exact number to the new network.
Is there a gap in service?
A brief one—typically minutes to a few hours during the transfer. Schedule for a time when you don't need your phone urgently.
Do I need to tell my old provider?
No. The number port request automatically notifies them. They can't refuse or block the transfer.
Can my old provider charge me to leave?
Only if you're within a minimum contract term (bill pay). Prepay customers can leave anytime without fees.
What if something goes wrong?
Contact your new provider. They manage the porting process and can troubleshoot any issues.
Can I change my mind?
Before the port completes, you can cancel with your new provider. After the port, you'd need to port back (which is another full switching process).
How long until I can switch again?
There's no mandatory waiting period. You can switch as often as you like.
Tips for a Smooth Switch
Time it right: Don't switch just before travelling or when you need your phone for something important.
Use up prepay credit: Remaining credit is forfeited, so use it or lose it.
Screenshot important data: Save any texts, voicemails, or data tied to your old account.
Note two-factor apps: Banking apps and other 2FA services may need reconfiguration after switching.
Test the new network first: If possible, try a pay-as-you-go SIM from the new network before porting your main number.
Check coverage: Use the new network's coverage checker for your home and workplace before committing.
What About Business Accounts?
Business accounts follow the same process but may have:
- Longer notice periods
- Early termination fees
- Multiple lines to consider
Check your business contract terms before switching. You may need to wait until contract renewal.
Switching Between Specific Networks
Switching to GoMo
- Order at gomo.ie
- €14.99 activation fee (covers first month)
- Port takes 24-48 hours
- No contract—cancel anytime
Switching to 48
- Order at 48.ie
- Choose free SIM (promotions vary)
- Top up €12.99 to activate
- Prepay—no contract
Switching to Clear Mobile
- Order at clearmobile.ie
- €12.99 activation if from GoMo/48/Eir/Three/Tesco
- €14.99 otherwise
- Port during checkout
Switching to Lycamobile
- Order at lycamobile.ie (free SIM)
- Choose plan (from €10/month)
- Port number during activation
- Prepay—no contract
Common Switching Problems
"My port was rejected"
Usually means:
- Account number was incorrect
- Account name doesn't match
- Outstanding balance on old account
Solution: Contact new provider with correct details.
"I can't receive calls after switching"
Give it 24 hours. If still not working:
- Restart your phone
- Check APN settings (ask new provider)
- Contact new provider support
"My data isn't working"
Check APN (Access Point Name) settings. Each network has specific APN settings that must be configured. Usually automatic, but sometimes needs manual setup.
"My old provider is still charging me"
Check your bank for the final bill. If charges continue after your port date, contact your old provider with proof of the port completion.
Summary
Switching mobile network in Ireland is straightforward:
- Get your account number
- Order new SIM and request port
- Wait for scheduled transfer date
- Insert new SIM when old service stops
- Enjoy your new network
The entire process takes about a week and requires minimal effort. With budget networks now offering excellent value (48 at €12.99, GoMo at €14.99), there's never been a better time to switch.
Last updated: January 2026