Help with Switching to Three

Below you'll find answers to the most common questions about switching when using a PAC or STAC. You’ll also find info about your compensation rights.

Ready to switch? Head over to our Switching Hub.

Switching to Three using a PAC 

PAC stands for Porting Authorisation Code. You’ll need a PAC to switch to our network and keep your number.

A PAC gives us permission to transfer your mobile number to the Three network and close your account with your existing provider at the same time.

Switching to Three using a STAC

STAC is short for Service Termination Authorisation Code. 
 

Not everyone wants to keep their old number when switching networks. A STAC lets you switch to Three and get a new number from us. It also gives us permission to cancel your account with your old network at the same time. 

After we’ve got your PAC or STAC code

Check the most common causes for delay below. If they don’t help, please contact us

Did you activate your Three SIM?  

Your new Three SIM must be activated by 17:00 on the last working day before your transfer date.  

If you’ve not activated it on time, don’t worry. Follow these steps and the transfer will be completed within 1 working day. Or 2 working days if done after 17:00, over the weekend, or on a Bank Holiday. 

To activate your new Three SIM, put it into your device and switch it on. 

When you see signal bars, that’s your SIM activated. You might need to switch Wi-Fi off to see the signal bars.  

Once your SIM is active, you can use it immediately. Or you can go back to your old network SIM until the transfer is completed. 

If you activated your SIM on time, but your number’s still not been transferred, please contact us.

Are you abroad?

You must be connected to the Three network in the UK to complete the transfer. If you’re abroad when the transfer is scheduled, it’ll be delayed until you return to the UK.

Please note: If your PAC expires during this time, you’ll need to get a new one and submit a new switching request.

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