Get a UK mobile phone number
Getting connected is a priority when you've just arrived in the UK. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate the mobile network landscape and find the best option for you.
The Types of Mobile Networks in the UK
In the UK, the mobile network scene is split into two main types:
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs): These are the 'Big Four' companies that own and operate their own physical network infrastructure, like phone masts and cables. They are the foundation of all mobile services in the country. The Big Four are EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs): These are smaller companies that don't have their own network infrastructure. Instead, they "piggyback" or rent access from one of the Big Four networks. This allows them to offer mobile services without the huge cost of building a network, which often means they can offer cheaper deals and more flexible plans. Think of them as resellers.
Mainstream Providers of Mobile Networks and Data
Here are the main players you'll come across:
The Big Four (MNOs):
EE: Known for having the best overall coverage and fastest speeds, especially for 4G and 5G.
Vodafone: Offers great coverage and is often praised for its international roaming options.
O2: Has strong coverage in urban areas and offers a popular "Priority" rewards program with perks like early access to concert tickets.
Three: Known for competitive prices and being a pioneer of unlimited data plans.
Popular MVNOs (running on the MNO networks):
Giffgaff (runs on O2): Famous for its flexible, no-contract plans ("Goodybags") and a strong online community.
Tesco Mobile (runs on O2): A reliable choice that offers rewards and is known for great customer service.
Lebara (runs on Vodafone): A fantastic option for international calls.
SMARTY (runs on Three): Known for its simple, low-cost plans and money back for unused data.
Voxi (runs on Vodafone): Caters to younger users with social media data that doesn't use up your allowance.
iD Mobile (runs on Three): Offers competitive prices and flexible plans.
Types of Data and Calling Plans Available
You have several options, depending on your needs:
Pay As You Go (PAYG): This is the easiest and most flexible option for a new arrival. You buy credit and top it up as you need it, and your usage (calls, texts, data) is deducted from your balance. There's no contract or credit check.
SIM Only Deals: This is the most common choice if you already have a phone. You get a SIM card and pay a set monthly fee for a bundle of minutes, texts, and data.
30-Day Rolling Contracts: This is perfect for new arrivals. You pay monthly, but you're not tied into a long contract. You can cancel or change your plan at any time with just 30 days' notice.
12 or 24-Month Contracts: These require a credit check and tie you in for a longer period, but often offer better value for money.
Phone Contract: This bundles a brand new phone with a monthly plan over 12, 24, or 36 months. This is usually not an option for someone who has just arrived, as it requires a credit history in the UK.
The Cheapest Mobile Networks for Calling and Data
For a new arrival, the MVNOs are almost always the best value, especially for flexibility and international calls.
For UK and International Calls: Lebara is widely considered one of the best for international calls. Their plans often include a set number of international minutes to many countries at no extra cost. This is a huge benefit if you need to call family and friends back home.
For General UK Use (Data and Calls): Giffgaff, SMARTY, and Voxi are consistently praised for offering excellent value on a rolling, 30-day basis. They are transparent and don't require credit checks for their SIM-only plans.
Process for Getting a Mobile Number and the Required Documents
The process is very straightforward for new arrivals, especially with the flexible options.
For Pay As You Go or 30-Day SIM Only:
Order a free SIM card online: Go to the network's website (e.g., giffgaff.com, lebara.co.uk) and order a free SIM. It will be delivered to your UK address in a few days. You only need to provide your name and address.
Pick up a SIM in a shop: You can buy a SIM card from supermarkets (like Tesco or Asda), convenience stores, or phone shops. This is the fastest way to get connected.
Activate it: Once you have the SIM, you can activate it online or via the app and choose a plan.
Documents Required: For these types of plans, you typically only need your UK address to get the SIM delivered or to register it. No proof of address or credit check is needed, which is perfect for you. You'll just need a debit or credit card to pay for your plan or top-up.
For a Monthly Phone Contract:
This is much harder for new arrivals.
Documents Required: You will need proof of ID (passport), proof of UK address (a utility bill or bank statement in your name), and a UK bank account for the direct debit.
Credit Check: The network will run a credit check, and without a credit history in the UK, your application will likely be rejected. It's best to build up some history (by getting a bank account, for example) before considering this option. My application was rejected when I applied for a mobile phone contract after two years of arriving in the UK. Generally, you need to be a UK resident for at least three years before you get a monthly phone contract.
6. Mobile Networks to Avoid
While there are no major networks that are completely "unreliable" in the UK, some have a better reputation for customer service than others.
Based on customer satisfaction surveys from sources like Ofcom and Which?, some networks have received more complaints than others. While a company's reputation can change, in recent years, some of the MNOs (like Three and Vodafone) have sometimes scored lower in customer satisfaction surveys compared to MVNOs like Tesco Mobile and Giffgaff.
It's also worth noting that some smaller, lesser-known MVNOs might have more basic customer service, often relying solely on online support. If you value being able to call someone or visit a shop, stick to the well-known names.
Recommendation: As a new arrival, stick to the major MVNOs like Giffgaff, Lebara, or SMARTY for a start. They offer flexibility, no credit checks, and great value, which is exactly what you need to get set up and start exploring the UK!
You will find all the information you need to get a UK phone number