[
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "I%20am%20thinking%20of%20moving%20from%20sky%20mobile%20to%20Lebara%2C%20should%20I%20get%20my%20pac%20code%20from%20sky%20mobile%20before%20signing%20up%20to%20Lebara"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Yes \u2014 you should *definitely* get your PAC (Porting Authorisation Code) from Sky Mobile **before** you complete signing up with Lebara, especially if you want to keep your current number. Here\u2019s why, and what the process looks like:\n\n---\n\n## What is a PAC code?\n\n- A PAC code is a unique alphanumeric code that lets you transfer your mobile number from one provider to another. In the UK, this is regulated by Ofcom so that customers can switch networks without losing their number. ([blog.lebara.co.uk](https://blog.lebara.co.uk/knowledge-base/how-to-get-a-pac-code/?utm_source=openai))  \n- Once issued, a PAC code is valid for **30 days**. If you don\u2019t use it (\u201cport in\u201d to your new provider) within that period, it expires. ([blog.lebara.co.uk](https://blog.lebara.co.uk/knowledge-base/how-to-get-a-pac-code/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## How Sky Mobile\u2019s PAC process works\n\n- To get a PAC code from Sky Mobile, you can text **\u201cPAC\u201d** to **65075** from the number you want to keep. This is usually the fastest method. ([mymobiles.com](https://www.mymobiles.com/guides/pac-code/sky-mobile?utm_source=openai))  \n- They must issue the PAC code **within 2 hours** of your request. If the \u201ctext-to-switch\u201d route doesn\u2019t work (for example, for multi-line accounts), you can also get it via their website or by calling customer service. ([mymobiles.com](https://www.mymobiles.com/guides/pac-code/sky-mobile?utm_source=openai))  \n- **Important**: Don\u2019t cancel your Sky Mobile contract before the porting finishes \u2014 once your number moves, the old contract is automatically closed. If you end the contract yourself first, you risk losing your number. ([mymobiles.com](https://www.mymobiles.com/guides/pac-code/sky-mobile?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## How Lebara handles porting in your number\n\n- Lebara requires a PAC code to port your number to them. You usually order a Lebara SIM, get your PAC from your old provider, then submit it to Lebara. ([lebara.co.uk](https://www.lebara.co.uk/en/port-number.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- The porting (number transfer) process typically takes **1 working day**, though in some cases it could be up to **2 working days**. ([simonlyfinder.co.uk](https://www.simonlyfinder.co.uk/pac-code-transfer-number/lebara?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Why it\u2019s best to get the PAC *before* signing up\n\nHere are the benefits of getting your PAC code *before* completing your move to Lebara:\n\n1. **Seamless transition**  \n   Having the code ready means that once you order your Lebara SIM, you can immediately initiate the port. That reduces downtime and means you\u2019re less likely to be without service.\n\n2. **Avoid losing your number**  \n   If you cancel Sky Mobile first, even by mistake, there\u2019s a risk your number could be lost or permanently disconnected. The PAC ensures the switch happens smoothly. ([mymobiles.com](https://www.mymobiles.com/guides/pac-code/sky-mobile?utm_source=openai))  \n\n3. **Time-sensitive validity**  \n   Since PAC codes are only good for 30 days, you want to order one when you\u2019re already almost ready to switch. Ordering too early means it might expire before Lebara can activate your SIM. Ordering too late means delays. Getting it just before or during your Lebara sign-up is ideal. ([blog.lebara.co.uk](https://blog.lebara.co.uk/knowledge-base/how-to-get-a-pac-code/?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## Steps you should follow\n\nHere\u2019s a suggested checklist to make sure things go right:\n\n1. From your Sky Mobile number, text **PAC \u2192 65075** to request the code. Alternatively, get it via Sky\u2019s website or support, especially if you have a multi-line plan.  \n2. Don\u2019t cancel anything with Sky until the number transfer is confirmed.  \n3. Order your Lebara SIM/plan. During or after ordering, submit the PAC code and the phone number you want to port.  \n4. Choose a preferred port-in date with Lebara (you\u2019ll be prompted to do this). ([lebara.co.uk](https://www.lebara.co.uk/en/portin/verify-pac.html?utm_source=openai))  \n5. Wait for the switch, which should take 1 working day (sometimes 2). Use your Sky SIM until your number moves over.  \n\n---\n\nIf you want, I can check the specific cutoff times for Sky and Lebara (to see if there are daily deadlines to meet), and any costs or conditions specific to your plan \u2014 would that be helpful?"
    }
]