Switching mobile carriers has always been a bureaucratic process. Applications, waiting, physical SIM cards, activation. eSIM and the new EU regulations are changing everything. From 2026, number porting takes just minutes.
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▶️ What is eSIM
eSIM (embedded SIM) is a chip built into your device. No physical card is needed — the carrier profile is downloaded digitally. iPhones from the XS onwards, most flagship Android phones, and smartwatches support eSIM. The advantage? You can have multiple profiles (e.g. personal + business) without swapping cards.
In Greece, all major carriers (Cosmote, Vodafone, Nova) have supported eSIM for years. What changed in 2026 is the porting process.
🇪🇺 New EU regulations (2026)
- Maximum carrier switch time: 24 hours (down from 3-5 days)
- No fees for number porting
- Mandatory eSIM support from all carriers
- Simplified online process (no store visit required)
- EU-wide portability for those relocating to another country
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❓ How switching works now
The process is now simple. You choose your new carrier and plan online. You indicate that you want number porting. The new carrier handles everything: contacts the old one, completes the transfer, and sends you a QR code to activate your new eSIM profile.
The whole thing takes under 24 hours, often just a few hours. No need to visit a store, wait in line, or swap a physical card. Everything is done from your phone.
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📱 Before (SIM card)
- Visit a store
- Wait 3-5 days
- Porting fee
- New physical card
- 1 carrier per device
✨ Now (eSIM)
- Everything online
- Within 24 hours
- Free porting
- Digital profile
- Up to 8 carriers on the same phone
🎯 What it means for consumers
More competition, better prices. When switching carriers is easy, companies have to offer better services to keep you. The lock-in “trap” is weakened.
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Additionally, eSIM opens up new possibilities. Traveling abroad? Add a local eSIM profile without losing your Greek number. Want a separate number for work? Add a second profile. All on the same phone.
For those relocating to another EU country, the new regulations allow porting your number to a carrier in the new country. You no longer need to maintain a Greek connection just to keep your number.
OnOff Mobile
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