1. Types of Mobile Contracts in France
French mobile contracts fall into two main categories. Knowing which one you have directly affects how you can cancel and how much it costs.
No-Commitment Plans (Sans Engagement)
As the name suggests, no-commitment plans carry no minimum term. They renew monthly and can be cancelled at any time.
Advantages of No-Commitment Plans
- Cancel with 10 days notice, no penalties
- No early termination fees
- Switch operator whenever you want
- Adapt your plan to your changing needs
Commitment Plans (Avec Engagement)
Commitment plans typically come with a subsidised or heavily discounted handset but bind you for 12 to 24 months.
Commitment Plan Conditions
- 12 to 24-month commitment period
- Early cancellation incurs penalties
- After 12 months, 25% penalty applies (Loi Chatel)
- Usually includes a discounted device
Note: Loi Hamon (2014) capped the maximum commitment period at 12 months. Source: Code de la consommation Article L224-30
2. Cancellation Procedures
There are three main ways to cancel your mobile contract in France. Choose the one that suits your situation.
Method 1: Online Cancellation (Easiest)
Most operators (Orange, SFR, Bouygues, Free) offer online cancellation through their customer portal. This is usually the fastest and simplest option.
- Log in to your customer account
- Go to "My subscriptions" or "My contracts"
- Select the line you want to cancel
- Confirm your cancellation request
- Keep the confirmation email for your records
Method 2: Registered Letter
In some situations a written request is required, particularly in disputes or when the online system is unavailable.
- Prepare your cancellation letter (template below)
- Send it by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt
- Keep the postal receipt as proof
- Your cancellation takes effect 10 days after receipt
Method 3: Through Your New Operator (Most Common)
If you are switching operators and keeping your number, your new operator handles the cancellation for you. This is the most convenient approach and relies on your RIO code.
What Is a RIO Code?
RIO (Réseau Identité Opérateur) is a 12-character code that identifies your phone line. Call 3179 from your mobile to receive it by SMS immediately and free of charge. You will need it to transfer your number.
3. Loi Chatel and Loi Hamon Compared
Two key laws govern mobile contract cancellation in France: Loi Chatel (2008) and Loi Hamon (2014). Both protect consumers but address different aspects.
| Subject | Loi Chatel (2008) | Loi Hamon (2014) |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum commitment | Allowed up to 24 months | Maximum 12 months |
| Early cancellation fee | 100% of remaining months | After 12 months: 25% of remaining |
| Price increase right | Not covered | Penalty-free cancellation within 4 months |
| Notice period | 10 days | 10 days |
Loi Chatel: Limiting Early Termination Fees
Loi Chatel (n°2008-3, 3 January 2008) restricts early termination penalties for commitment contracts. Its legal basis is Article L224-30 of the Code de la consommation.
How it works: If you cancel during your commitment period, you pay only 25% of the fees for the remaining months rather than 100%. This represents a significant saving.
Example: 24-month plan at €30/month, cancelled in month 18
Remaining months: 6 (months 19-24)
Without Loi Chatel: 6 × €30 = €180
With Loi Chatel: 6 × €30 × 25% = €45
You save: €135
Loi Hamon: Cutting Commitment Periods
Loi Hamon (n°2014-344, 17 March 2014) reduced the maximum commitment period from 24 months to 12 months. This means consumers gain freedom sooner.
Loi Hamon also introduced a penalty-free cancellation right when your operator increases prices. If your operator raises prices, you have 4 months to leave without penalty.
4. Number Portability (Portabilité)
Since 2003, you have had the legal right to keep your phone number when switching operators in France. Regulated by ARCEP, this process allows consumers to change operator without losing their number.
Step-by-Step Number Transfer
Get Your RIO Code
Call 3179 from your mobile to receive your RIO code by SMS. It arrives immediately, so do not wait.
Apply to Your New Operator
Sign up with your new operator using the number you want to transfer and provide your RIO code.
Transfer Begins
Your new operator cancels your old contract automatically and completes the number transfer within 3 business days.
Activate Your New SIM
Insert your new SIM card when notified. Your number transfers automatically and you experience less than 4 hours of interruption.
Key Facts
- Free of charge: Number portability does not require any additional payment
- 3 business days: ARCEP regulation sets a maximum of 3 business days for completion
- Compensation: If there is a delay, you are entitled to automatic compensation
Source: ARCEP — Electronic communications sector regulations
5. French Mobile Operator Comparison
Four main mobile operators operate in France. Knowing their strengths and weaknesses helps you make an informed choice when switching.
| Operator | No-Commitment Plan | Commitment Plan Advantage | Customer Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orange | €20-35/month | Subsidised devices + Europe coverage | Web, app, phone |
| SFR | €15-30/month | Discounted bundled internet packages | Web, store, phone |
| Bouygues | €15-30/month | Mobile + fibre bundle advantage | Web, store, phone |
| Free | €10-20/month | Low prices, straightforward plans | Web, app |
Prices shown for reference only. Visit operators' official websites for current rates. Source: Respective operator websites, January 2026.
Sub-Brands
The major operators also own sub-brands (Sosh, RED by SFR, B&You, Prixtel) that typically offer no-commitment plans at lower prices. They use the same network infrastructure but have different customer service arrangements.
- Sosh (Orange subsidiary): Budget-friendly, online-focused
- RED by SFR (SFR subsidiary): Flexible plans, web only
- B&You (Bouyness subsidiary): Competitive pricing
- Prixtel: Usage-based flexible plans
6. Loi Sapin 2: The 60-Day Right to Cancel
Loi Sapin 2 (n°2016-1691, 9 December 2016) introduced an additional cancellation right that most people do not know about. Under Article L224-32 of the Code de la consommation, you can cancel any electronic communications contract within 60 days of signing without providing a reason.
What Makes This Different
- Unlike the 10-day cooling-off period (withdrawal right), the 60-day right applies to commitment plans as well
- You do not need to justify your cancellation
- Applies to both in-store and online contract signings
- You must still pay for services used during the contract period
Note: This right must be exercised by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt. The operator has 14 days to confirm cancellation and refund any unused credit.
7. Returning Your SIM Card
After cancelling, you must return your SIM card unless you are transferring your number to a new operator. The conditions and deadline depend on your contract type.
When Returning Is Required
If you are not keeping your number, or if you are cancelling a commitment plan with a subsidised device that required a deposit.
Deadline
Typically 10 days from cancellation confirmation. Check your contract for exact terms.
Non-Return Fees
Operators may charge €5-15 if SIM is not returned within deadline. Lost SIMs are usually charged at €10.
How to Return
Most operators provide a prepaid return envelope. You can also return in-store or by registered post.
Important: Keep Your Number
If you are switching operators and want to keep your number, do not return your SIM. The new operator will handle the transfer and your old SIM will be deactivated automatically. Returning the SIM before the transfer is complete will result in losing your number.
8. Operator Cancellation Contacts
Each operator has specific channels for cancellation requests. Here are the direct contact methods and URLs for the main operators.
| Operator | Cancellation Phone | Online Portal | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orange | 3900 (from Orange) | orange.fr/espace-client | Service clients Orange, 95130 Le Plessis-Bouchard |
| SFR | 1023 (from SFR) | sfr.fr/mon-compte | SFR Résiliation, 93200 Saint-Denis |
| Bouygues | 3106 (from Bouygues) | bouyguestelecom.fr/mon-compte | Service Clients, 60676 Compiègne CEDEX |
| Free | 3244 (from Free) | free.fr/mon-compte | Free Résiliation, 75371 Paris CEDEX 08 |
Tip: Calling from your mobile operator is usually free. Have your customer reference number ready before calling.
9. Your Rights When Prices Rise
When your operator raises prices, French consumer law grants you important protections. These rights are set out in Loi Hamon (2014-344).
What to Do When Prices Increase
- Check the price increase notification from your operator
- You must receive at least 1 month advance notice
- You have 4 months to cancel penalty-free
- Apply to your new operator and provide your RIO code
Important: If you do not accept the price increase, you can cancel your contract without paying a penalty. However, do not cancel before setting up your new contract; this minimises any gap in service.
10. Legitimate Grounds for Penalty-Free Cancellation
In certain circumstances, you can cancel without paying any fees even during your commitment period. These rights are established under Article L224-31 of the Code de la consommation.
Death
If a policyholder dies, their next of kin can request cancellation as the account holder. A death certificate is required.
Long-Term Illness or Disability
When you are unable to use the services due to medical reasons, a doctor's report enables penalty-free cancellation.
Redundancy
Being made redundant or registering for ARE (reemployment allowance) allows cancellation with your unemployment certificate.
Forced Professional Relocation
When your employer relocates to a different region or your role makes it genuinely impossible to continue using the service, supporting documentation is required.
Note: You must provide supporting evidence for each of these circumstances. Without documentation, your cancellation request may be rejected.
11. Cancellation Letter Template
If you need to send a written cancellation request, use the template below. Send it by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt (lettre recommandée avec accusé de réception) to have legal proof of your request.
Tip: Send the letter by registered mail with acknowledgement of receipt. This proves both the sending date and delivery. Keep the receipt for at least 1 year.
11. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Frequent errors during mobile contract cancellation can lead to unnecessary costs or delays.
Mistake: Sending a cancellation request by email
Email does not constitute legal proof of cancellation. Use the official online system or a registered letter.
Mistake: Applying to a new operator before getting your RIO code
The new operator cannot begin the process without your RIO. Call 3179 first.
Mistake: Closing your line before the 10-day notice period ends
Start the cancellation process while your line is still active. Otherwise additional charges may apply.
Mistake: Stopping your old operator before receiving cancellation confirmation
Without confirmation, you risk service disruption. Wait for written confirmation before assuming the cancellation is complete.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
How do I cancel my mobile plan in France?
No-commitment plans require 10 days notice. With commitment plans, you can cancel after 12 months by paying only 25% of remaining monthly fees. The easiest method is to give your RIO code to your new operator, who handles the cancellation automatically.
What does the Loi Chatel mean for my mobile contract?
The Loi Chatel (2008-3) limits early termination fees to 25% of remaining months after the first 12 months of a 24-month commitment. Legal basis: Code de la consommation Article L224-30.
Can I keep my phone number when switching operators?
Yes, number portability (portabilité) is a legal right in France. Call 3179 to get your RIO code, then give it to your new operator. The transfer completes within 3 business days.
What happens if my operator raises prices?
Under Loi Hamon (2014-344), you must be notified at least 1 month in advance of any price increase. You then have 4 months to cancel penalty-free.
How long does it take to cancel a no-commitment plan?
No-commitment plans require a minimum 10-day notice period. Your cancellation takes effect 10 days after your operator receives your request.
When can I cancel for free?
Death, long-term illness, disability, redundancy, and certain forced professional relocations allow penalty-free cancellation under Article L224-31 of the Code de la consommation.
How do I leave Orange, SFR, Bouygues, or Free?
All operators allow cancellation via your online account, by phone, or by registered letter. The most convenient method is to let your new operator handle it using your RIO code.
What is the difference between Loi Chatel and Loi Hamon?
Loi Chatel (2008) governs penalty cancellation conditions. Loi Hamon (2014) reduced the maximum commitment period from 24 to 12 months and added the penalty-free cancellation right when prices increase.
What if I am moving abroad?
Moving abroad does not grant penalty-free cancellation. If you have a commitment period remaining, you pay 25% of the outstanding months. Proof of your new address may be required.
What happens if I cancel a plan with a discounted phone?
If you received a heavily subsidised phone with your commitment plan, you may need to pay the difference between the market value of the device and what you actually paid. Check with your operator for the exact figure before cancelling.
Related Articles
Sources
- Code de la consommation Article L224-30 — Commitment and cancellation conditions
- Code de la consommation Article L224-31 — Penalty-free cancellation conditions
- Service-public.fr — Mobile contract cancellation
- ARCEP — Electronic communications regulations
- DGCCRF — Mobile telephony
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Terms and conditions vary by operator. Always verify the specific terms of your contract before cancelling.