Par In brief
- Get your free RIO code by dialling 3179 from the line you want to move (read out and sent by SMS, 24/7).
- Give the RIO to your new provider when you subscribe — they port your number and cancel your old contract for you.
- Number portability usually completes within a few working days, with little or no loss of service.
- Still under commitment? A new provider will often buy out your termination fees, up to around €150.
What is a RIO code?
The RIO (Relevé d'Identité Opérateur) is a unique code that identifies your line. You give it to your new operator so your existing number is ported to them instead of being lost.
- Dial 3179 free from the mobile or line you want to switch — the code is read out and also sent to you by SMS.
- The 3179 line is available 24/7; note the code down, it is valid for a limited time.
- For a fixed line / internet box, the RIO is also shown in your online account (espace client).
- Using the RIO to port your number automatically cancels the old contract — do not cancel it yourself first.
Switch provider with English-speaking help
An English-speaking Selectra advisor compares French operators, checks any remaining fees, and handles the switch and number portability for you — in English.
How to switch and keep your number, step by step
Switching provider takes five simple steps :
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1
Get your RIO code (dial 3179 from the line, or find it in your online account for a box).
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2
Choose your new plan — compare French providers or ask a free advisor.
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3
Subscribe with the new operator and give them your RIO plus your bank details (RIB) for a monthly plan.
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4
The new provider ports your number and closes the old contract; you do not send a cancellation letter.
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5
Your number switches over within a few working days — keep both SIMs until the port completes.
Switching fees and how to avoid them
If your plan is contract-free or your commitment period is over, switching costs nothing. If you are still under a 12 or 24-month commitment, you may owe early-termination fees (frais de résiliation) — but there are ways around them :
- Many providers buy out your cancellation fees (up to around €150) when you switch to them — ask before you subscribe.
- You can leave fee-free for a legitimate reason (motif légitime) such as moving abroad — see our cancellation guide.
- On a 24-month plan, the Loi Chatel cuts the remaining fees to 25% once you pass the 13th month.
If you would rather cancel outright than switch, use our ready-to-copy French cancellation letter templates.
Switching internet (box) vs switching mobile
The RIO/portability process above is the standard route for a mobile line. Switching a home internet box is similar but has a few differences :
- If you keep a fixed landline number, it is ported using the same RIO principle; a pure fibre/box plan without a landline has nothing to port.
- Box activation (especially first-time fibre) can take from a few days to a few weeks, sometimes with an engineer visit — longer than a mobile port.
- You must return the old equipment (box, TV decoder, accessories) within the provider’s deadline, or you will be billed for it — keep the return receipt.
- As with mobile, a new provider will often buy out remaining fees; check what is available at your address in our internet in France guide.
What to have ready before you switch
Gather these before you subscribe with the new operator so the switch goes through in one go :
- Your RIO code (dial 3179) if you want to keep your number.
- A valid ID and your French bank details (RIB) for a monthly plan.
- Your current contract details — customer number and any remaining commitment, so fees can be checked or bought out.
- Your full French address (with floor and door) for an internet box eligibility check.
The most common mistake is cancelling the old line yourself first — that loses your number. Always let the new provider port it with your RIO, and keep the old SIM active until the switch completes.
Let us handle the switch in English
Our English-speaking advisors compare French operators, get your fees bought out where possible, and manage the number portability for you — free of charge.
Switching provider in France: FAQ
Get your RIO code (dial 3179) and give it to your new provider when you subscribe. They port your number and cancel the old contract automatically — you do not cancel it yourself.
Number portability usually completes within a few working days of your request. Keep your old SIM active until the new number goes live to avoid any gap in service.
Possibly, but many providers buy out your termination fees (up to around €150) when you join them. You can also leave fee-free for a legitimate reason, or once your commitment is over.
No — using the RIO to port your number closes the old contract automatically. A letter is only needed if you are cancelling without moving your number; in that case use our cancellation letter templates.