Transferring telephone numbers to be even easier from now on

Today new rules come into effect which will make it easier for mobile subscribers to transfer their phone number to a new mobile operator, even if they still have a contract with the provider whom they wish to leave. In addition, it may not take more than 10 working days to transfer a number, unless the respective subscriber requests a specific, subsequent date in writing.

Mobile callers have been able to take their phone number with them to a new provider for some time. In particular, business callers are increasingly making use of this. However, OPTA established that this so-called number portability was not being processed smoothly. Callers complained to OPTA that they were unable to take their numbers with them in a number of cases. For example, they were tied to a contract with their previous provider or a term of notice. In other cases, a deposit was requested. In addition, OPTA noted that the period required to transfer a number was too long in the case of several providers. Following the amendment of the relevant policy rules, these impediments are no longer allowed and it may not take more than 10 working days to transfer a number, unless the respective caller requests a specific, subsequent date in writing. In this way OPTA wishes to ensure that consumers are at liberty to choose a mobile operator.

As it happens, the fact that mobile callers could transfer their phone number does not release them from their contract with their previous provider. Compliance with their duty to meet their payment obligations or any other contractual obligations is separate from their right to their number.