How long does number portability take?

Portability takes a maximum of 3 business days. The effective date is agreed with your new operator during subscription.

Is there service interruption during the transfer?

The interruption is very brief, typically a few hours maximum on the transfer day. You're notified by SMS of the date and approximate time.

Yes, number portability is free. Your old operator cannot charge you for this. It's a right guaranteed by law.

Mobile Number Portability France 2026

Q: What is the RIO code and how do I get it?

The RIO (Relevé d'Identité Opérateur) code is a 12-character code that identifies your mobile line. To get it, call 3179 (free) from your mobile. You'll receive your RIO by SMS.

Q: Is my old contract automatically cancelled?

Yes, when you request portability, your new operator automatically cancels your old contract. Termination fees may apply if you're still under commitment.

Mobile Number Portability in France: 2026 Guide

Switching mobile operators while keeping your phone number is a right guaranteed by French law. Portability is free, fast, and entirely handled by your new operator. This guide explains all the steps to successfully transfer your number with peace of mind.

Key Points

Portability is free
Maximum 3 business days
RIO code obtained by calling 3179
Automatic cancellation of old contract

1. Portability Steps

Get your RIO code

Call 3179 (free) from your current mobile

Choose your new operator

Compare offers and select the one that suits you

Subscribe with portability

Provide your RIO during subscription

Wait for the transfer

Maximum 3 business days, you'll be notified by SMS

2. The RIO Code Explained

The RIO (Relevé d'Identité Opérateur) is a unique 12-character code that identifies your mobile line. It's essential for keeping your number when switching operators.

How to Get Your RIO

Call 3179

Free call from your mobile. You'll receive your RIO by SMS immediately. The voice server will also provide information about your current contract (end of commitment date, etc.).

Operator	RIO Number	Note
Orange	3179	Free from Orange mobile
SFR	3179	Free from SFR mobile
Free Mobile	3179	Free from Free mobile
Bouygues Telecom	3179	Free from Bouygues mobile

3. Timeline and Schedule

French law mandates a maximum of 3 business days to complete the transfer. In practice:

Day 0: Subscribe with new operator with portability request
Day 1-3: Request processing and technical transfer
Transfer day: Actual switchover (possible few hours of interruption)

You'll be notified by SMS of the date and approximate time of the switchover. Usually, transfers happen in the morning.

4. Your Rights

Free Portability

Your old operator cannot charge for portability. It's a right guaranteed by ARCEP.

Automatic Cancellation

Your new operator cancels your old contract. Termination fees may apply if under commitment.

Keep Your Number

You keep your number for life, regardless of how many times you switch operators.

Dispute Resolution

In case of dispute, you can contact the electronic communications mediator.

5. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the RIO code and how do I get it?

The RIO is a 12-character code identifying your line. Call 3179 (free) from your mobile to receive it by SMS.

How long does portability take?

Maximum 3 business days. The date is agreed with your new operator during subscription.

Is there service interruption?

A brief interruption of a few hours maximum on transfer day. You're notified by SMS of the date and time.

Is portability free?

Yes, portability is free. It's a right guaranteed by law.

Is my old contract automatically cancelled?

Yes, your new operator cancels your old contract automatically. Fees may apply if under commitment.

Written by Comparatif24.fr Team

Last updated: February 10, 2026

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