Pay as you go mobile services
This is the most widely used service, especially with newcomers to the UK. If you have purchased one of our 1st Contact packages, you would have received a SIM card in your welcome pack. Alternatively, you are able to purchase a SIM card after you arrive in the UK.
Credit can be purchased over the phone, online or at a number of stores. Rates for phone calls differ between peak and off-peak hours, with the former being more expensive.
Ask your service provider about their add-on packages, including SMS or text bundles, as these tend to be better value for money.
Contract mobile services
Once you open a bank account in the UK and build a credit rating, you will be able to take out a mobile phone contract.
A contract will allow you to select a service to suit your personal needs, with the bonus of a free mobile phone. You will have a direct debit set up against your bank account, which will be billed on a monthly basis. Consider setting a limit on your contract to avoid an unexpected bill at the end of the month.
Mobile SIM providers
Our 1st Contact packages include a UK mobile SIM card from your choice of one of the following providers.
Provider | How it keeps you connected | 1st Contact customers can |
---|---|---|
Lebara mobile | ||
![]() |
|
|
EE | ||
![]() |
|
|
O2 | ||
![]() |
|
|
Three | ||
![]() |
|
|
giffgaff | ||
![]() |
|
|
Vodafone | ||
![]() |
|
|
Start getting prepared for your UK move
Essential resources for life in the UK
- The UK school system
- Accommodation in the UK
- Mobile SIM cards
- Essential web links
- UK facts and figures
- The UK tax system
- The National Health Service
- International money transfers
- Choosing the right UK visa
- Finding an expat community
- Contracting in the UK
- UK financial services
- Shipping excess baggage
- Cost of living in the UK
- Travel discounts