Switch from Three to Lebara
Keep your phone number when you switch from Three to Lebara. Here's how in 3 simple steps.
Switching from Three to Lebara is a popular choice for people wanting affordable plans with international calling included. Lebara operates on the Vodafone network, so you'll be moving away from Three's infrastructure. This means coverage could differ in some areas, particularly indoors or in rural locations. The switch itself takes just one working day and you keep your phone number throughout. Lebara's flexible 30-day plans mean you're never locked in long-term.
Important Warning
Do NOT cancel your contract manually. If you cancel before transferring your number, you will lose it permanently. Your old contract will automatically cancel once the transfer completes.
Pre-Switch Checklist
- Back up your data: Contacts, voicemails, and saved messages won't transfer.
- Unlock your phone: Ensure it's not locked to your old network if you plan to keep using it.
- Check Early Termination Fees: Text INFO to 85075 to see if you'll incur charges for leaving early.
How to Switch from Three to Lebara
Get your PAC code from Three
Text PAC to 65075 from your Three handset to get your PAC code within 60 seconds. You can also call Three on 333 from your Three phone or 0333 338 1001 from a different phone, or request it via the My3 app or at three.co.uk. Three's customer service may offer discounted deals to keep you — decline if you've decided to go. Your PAC code remains valid for 30 days from when it's issued.
Give your PAC to Lebara
Get a Lebara SIM by ordering online at lebara.co.uk or picking one up from a local shop. Activate the SIM and top up or select a plan, then submit your PAC code through the Lebara app or your online account. You can also call Lebara on 5588 from your Lebara SIM or 0207 031 0791 from another phone to provide the PAC code and request the number transfer.
Wait 1 working day
Lebara will process the transfer on the next working day after receiving your PAC. A confirmation text will tell you the exact date. When the switch happens, your Three SIM stops working and your Lebara SIM takes over your number. Make sure your phone is on and both SIMs are accessible during the transfer window. Your Three account cancels automatically once the port completes.
Transfer Cut-off Times: Submitting your PAC code before 5:30 PM usually means your number will transfer the next working day. Submitting it after 5:30 PM or on weekends/bank holidays will add an extra working day to the process.
Final Bill: You'll receive a final bill from Three shortly after the transfer is complete. This covers your usage up to the date of the switch.
Things to Check Before Switching
Review your Three account for outstanding device payments, as the remaining balance will need to be paid when you leave. Early exit fees may apply if you're still in a minimum term. Make sure your phone is unlocked for the Vodafone network — Three phones sold after December 2021 come unlocked, but older ones might need unlocking through My3 or by calling 333. Lebara is SIM-only, so you'll need to bring your own handset.
Different Network Coverage
Lebara runs on the Vodafone network, which is different from Three's network. Coverage patterns can vary between the two, especially in rural areas and inside buildings. Check Vodafone's coverage map at vodafone.co.uk/coverage-checker with your postcode before making the switch to avoid any surprises.
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