Quick answer To switch to Lyca Mobile, choose a plan, order a SIM or eSIM online, verify your ID, and request to transfer your existing number. Keep your old service active until the transfer finishes, so you do not lose your number or have a gap in coverage. |
Switching providers sounds like a hassle, but with a prepaid SIM-only plan it is usually quick and there is no lock-in contract. This guide walks you through every step, so you can take advantage of seasonal deals with confidence.
Before you switch: a quick checklist
- Is your phone unlocked? You need an unlocked phone to use another provider’s SIM. Lyca plans are bring-your-own-device.
- Do you want a SIM or an eSIM? An eSIM is a digital SIM with no physical card, and it is available with a compatible phone.
- Is there coverage where you live? Lyca uses the Vodafone 4G and 5G network. Check the coverage map for your home, work and regular travel areas.
- Are you on a contract? If you pay off a phone or have a minimum term, check for remaining charges or exit fees with your current provider.
- Do you have unused credit or data? Check what happens to it when you leave.
Step-by-step: switching and keeping your number
- Choose your plan. Compare data, price and international calling. Remember the standard price after any promotional period.
- Order your SIM or eSIM online. You can buy and activate online. Select eSIM if your phone supports it. You can view all the plans here to make a purchase: https://www.lycamobile.com.au/en/bundles/sim-only-plans/#best-value
- Verify your identity & Activate your NEW SIM or eSIM. Australian law requires ID verification for prepaid services. Have your ID ready. Steps are: Go to the SIM activation page. Enter your PUK code and the last 4 digits of your ICCID number (these are usually on your SIM card or eSIM email).Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your activation.
- Request to keep your number. Select the option to transfer your existing number, and enter your current number and details from your old provider. You can do this via this page. These are the exact steps you need to follow: Once your SIM is activated, start your number transfer at the Transfer Your Number Page. Please insert your Lyca Mobile Number you have activated plus your ICCD ( Last 4 digits ).Then follow the instructions to request the transfer.You will need to verify your old number with a one time passcode. You'll get a confirmation message with a reference number for your request. Your service will be interrupted for two-and-a-half business hours from the porting date you selected. Once porting is complete, you will get an confirmation message and you can start enjoying the service.
- Keep your old service active until the transfer is complete. Cancelling too early can cause you to lose your number.
- Install your SIM or eSIM. Insert the SIM, or scan the QR code or follow the in-app steps for an eSIM.
- Test it. Make a call, send a text and check your data. Restart your phone if needed.
- Set up your plan. Check your renewal date, and your auto-renewal settings.
SIM or eSIM: which should you choose?
| Â | Physical SIM | eSIM |
| Delivery | Posted or collected | Digital, activated online |
| Best for | Any unlocked phone | eSIM-compatible phones |
| Switching phones | Move the card across | Transfer or reinstall the eSIM |
| Dual SIM | Needs a dual-SIM phone | Easy second line on supported phones |
| Speed to start | Wait for delivery | Often available quickly |
What to know about Lyca plans after you switch
- Renewal: plans renew automatically every 28 days, so keep enough balance on your payment method.
  ( This is if you select a 28 Day Plan as we have other Plans called Long Term Plans which are valid for 180 Days and 360 Days) - Rollover: unused data can roll over up to 500GB if you recharge with the same or a higher-value plan before expiry or within the 48-hour grace period.
- Speeds: data speeds are capped at 100Mbps.
- Multiple services: you can register up to five Lyca mobile services under the same email and residential address.
- No lock-in: you can leave at any time without an exit fee by not recharging.
Common problems and quick fixes
Problem | What to try |
| No signal after switching | Restart the phone, check mobile data and roaming settings, and confirm the plan is active |
| Old SIM still shows | Wait for the number transfer to finish, then remove or disable the old SIM |
| eSIM will not install | eSIM will not install    Check you have Wi-Fi, that the phone is unlocked and that the QR code was not used before |
| Number not transferred | Number not transferred    Check the details entered match your old account, and contact customer support |
| Data not working | Check your APN and mobile data settings, and your plan has not expired |
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep my number when I switch to Lyca Mobile?
Yes, in most cases you can transfer your existing Australian mobile number to Lyca. Keep your old service active until the transfer finishes.
How long does it take to switch?
Many transfers complete quickly, but the time can vary. Allow some time, and do not cancel your old plan until the new service is working.
Does Lyca Mobile offer eSIM?
Yes. Lyca offers eSIM activation for compatible phones, as well as physical SIMs.
Do I need a new phone to switch?
No. You can bring your own device as long as it is unlocked and compatible with the network.
Is there a lock-in contract?
No. Lyca sells prepaid SIM-only plans, so you can stop at any time by not recharging.
Do I need ID to activate a prepaid SIM?
Yes. Australian rules require identity verification when you activate a prepaid service.
The bottom line
Switching is mostly preparation: check your phone, check coverage, pick your plan and keep your old service until your number has moved. Do that and it can take just a few steps.
Ready to switch? Choose your plan.