Get a UK mobile phone number

You may need a UK mobile number to use some services in the UK.

If you already have a mobile phone

You will need a UK SIM card. Make sure your phone is compatible and has been unlocked. Find out how to unlock your phone.

You will need to choose between a SIM with a monthly contract, or a pay as you go SIM.

Order SIM cards to your home address before you leave for the UK. Get a free SIM card from Giffgaff.
You can get a SIM card from the Global Lounge.
Order a SIM card online (see our list of SIM providers). Check with the provider how long it will take for the card to be delivered. It could be a few days.

It is a good idea to get a UK mobile number.

If you need one urgently, you could get a virtual UK number from a provider like Easy Ringer while you wait for your permanent number to be set up.

You may need to provide the following when securing a mobile phone contract:

proof of identity
proof of address (you may be able to provide a University of Bristol student status letter for this which you can produce online yourself when you are fully registered)
UK bank account.