Can I keep my phone number when I switch provider in Malta?
You can keep your mobile or landline number when you change provider, and providers may not charge you for porting it. Apply to the new provider; once you agree a date, your number must be active within one working day of that date.
You can usually take your mobile or landline number with you to a new provider. You ask the new provider to transfer it, and the number moves on an agreed day.
📜 The rules in Malta
Compensation
The law empowers the MCA to set rules on compensation from providers for delays or abuse in porting and switching, and for missed service or installation appointments. No MCA amount was found; providers must inform you of your compensation rights.
The details
- For a landline number, the one working day counts from when the new provider is ready to serve you, that is, once the new fixed line has been installed. (mca.org.mt)
- If porting fails, the old provider must reactivate your number and services until porting succeeds. Loss of service during switching and porting may not exceed one working day. (legislation.mt)
- After your contract ends, you keep the right to port or reactivate the number for one month, unless you give up that right. Porting can be refused if you have a bill that is overdue. (mca.org.mt)
- On a pre-paid or hybrid plan, you have at least two weeks after porting to ask the old provider to refund your remaining credit. A refund fee applies only if your contract or terms provide for it, and may not exceed €5. (mca.org.mt)
Malta Communications Authority (MCA)
Takes your complaint about a phone, internet or TV provider once you have complained to the provider first. It intervenes where a rule it enforces was broken; otherwise it mediates or refers you to the right forum.
🪜 Step by step
- Do not cancel the old contract firstIf you end the old contract before the transfer, the number can be lost. Let the new provider request the transfer.
- Get your details readyYou usually need the number, the name on the old contract and sometimes a customer number or transfer code from the old provider.
- Agree the transfer dateThe new provider tells you when the number moves. Keep the old SIM or line in use until then.
- Check that everything worksTest calls and messages on the new SIM or line, and check that the old provider sends a final bill and stops charging.
📇 Who to contact
Sponsor this page → One labelled block, €100 a month. Founding price €75 until 31 January 2027.
❓ Questions
How long does a number transfer take?
It is usually quick. If the rules in Malta set a maximum time or compensation for delays, you find them on this page.
Can I keep my number if I still owe the old provider money?
You still have to pay what you owe under the old contract. Ask the new provider before you switch whether anything could hold up the transfer.
Can I move a mobile number to a landline, or the other way round?
Usually not: mobile numbers move between mobile providers, landline numbers between landline providers.
📎 Sources
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