1. Types of Mobile Contracts
In France, there are two main types of mobile phone contracts, each with different cancellation rules:
No-Commitment Plans (Sans Engagement)
These plans can be canceled at any time with minimal notice (usually 10 days). They're the most flexible option and increasingly popular.
- ✓ Cancel anytime
- ✓ No termination fees
- ✓ 10-day notice period
- ✓ Most operators offer this option
Commitment Plans (Avec Engagement)
These typically come with a subsidized phone and lock you in for 12 or 24 months. Early termination is possible but incurs fees.
- • 12 or 24-month commitment
- • Early termination fees apply
- • Loi Chatel protections after 12 months
- • Often includes subsidized phone
2. Cancellation Procedures
Method 1: Online (Easiest)
Most operators now allow cancellation through your online account:
- Log into your customer area
- Find "Cancel" or "End contract" option
- Follow the steps and confirm
- Download confirmation for your records
Method 2: Registered Letter
The traditional method, still valid and sometimes required:
- Write a cancellation letter (see template below)
- Send by registered letter with acknowledgment (lettre recommandée avec accusé de réception)
- Keep the receipt as proof
- Cancellation takes effect 10 days after receipt
Method 3: Via Your New Operator
If you're switching operators and keeping your number, your new operator can handle the cancellation automatically:
- Provide your RIO (operator identity code) to the new operator
- They initiate the transfer and cancellation
- Process takes about 3 working days
- Seamless transition, no service interruption
Getting Your RIO
To get your RIO, call 3179 (free from any French mobile). You'll receive your RIO by SMS within minutes. This code is essential for number portability.
3. Loi Chatel Explained
The Loi Chatel (Law n°2008-3 of January 3, 2008) protects French consumers from excessive termination fees. Here's how it works:
For 24-Month Commitments
| When You Cancel | What You Pay |
|---|---|
| First 12 months | 100% of remaining months until month 12, then 25% for months 13-24 |
| After 12 months | Only 25% of remaining months |
Example Calculation
Scenario: €30/month plan, cancel at month 18
Remaining months: 6 (months 19-24)
Without Loi Chatel: 6 × €30 = €180
With Loi Chatel: 6 × €30 × 25% = €45
Legitimate Reasons for Fee-Free Cancellation
In certain situations, you can cancel without any fees, even during commitment:
- Moving abroad: Proof of new address required
- Job loss: Unemployment certificate required
- Long-term illness: Medical certificate required
- Death: Death certificate (for family)
- Over-indebtedness: Official commission decision
- Price increase: If operator raises prices beyond inflation
4. Number Portability
Since 2003, you have the legal right to keep your phone number when switching operators in France. Here's how:
Get Your RIO
Call 3179 from your mobile to receive your RIO code by SMS
Subscribe to New Operator
Provide your RIO when signing up with the new operator
Automatic Transfer
New operator cancels old contract and transfers number (3 working days)
Receive New SIM
Insert new SIM when notified, your number transfers automatically
Good to Know
Number portability is free. The transfer typically happens early morning on the scheduled day, with minimal service interruption (usually less than 4 hours).
5. Cancellation Letter Template
If you need to send a cancellation letter, here's a template you can use:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Phone Number]
[Customer Reference]
[Operator Name]
[Operator Address]
[City], [Date]
Subject: Mobile contract cancellation
Dear Sir or Madam,
I hereby request the cancellation of my mobile phone contract, details below:
- Phone number: [Your number]
- Customer reference: [Reference]
In accordance with the general terms and conditions, please process this cancellation within the contractual notice period.
[If keeping number: I will be using number portability to transfer my number to another operator.]
Please confirm this cancellation and send me a final invoice to the address above.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
Send this letter by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt (lettre recommandée avec accusé de réception) for legal proof.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the notice period for canceling a mobile plan in France?
For plans without commitment or after the commitment period, the notice is usually 10 days. During a commitment period, the Loi Chatel limits termination fees.
Can I keep my phone number when switching operators?
Yes, number portability is a legal right in France. Simply provide your RIO (Relevé d'Identité Opérateur) to your new operator who handles the transfer.
What is the Loi Chatel?
The Loi Chatel allows you to cancel a mobile contract after 12 months of a 24-month commitment, paying only 25% of the remaining months instead of 100%.
Sources
- • ARCEP (Telecom regulatory authority): arcep.fr
- • Service-Public.fr - Mobile contracts: service-public.fr
- • Loi n°2008-3 (Loi Chatel) - Légifrance
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. Terms and conditions may vary by operator. Always verify the specific conditions of your contract before canceling.
Last updated: February 10, 2026