UK Mobile for Newcomers (2025) — Best SIM & eSIM, PAYG vs Monthly, EU Roaming, No Credit Check

Appendix A — Provider checklist before buying

• Is EU roaming included? If yes, how many GB and which countries?
• Hotspot allowed? Any throttling or time-of-day rules?
• Spend cap controls in the app?
• eSIM available instantly or only by post?
• Invoice/receipt download for expenses?

Appendix B — Italian ⇄ Easy English phrase card (in store)

Italiano:
"C'è eSIM? Il roaming in UE è incluso? Posso avere una fattura mensile?"

Easy English:
"Do you have eSIM? Is EU roaming included? Can I get a monthly invoice?"

Italiano:
"La copertura in casa e al lavoro è buona?"

Easy English:
"Is coverage good at my home and workplace?"

Appendix C — Example APN fields (generic)

Always use your provider’s official APN; the above are generic placeholders.

Appendix D — Spend-cap & data-saver cheatsheet

• Enable “Data Saver/Low Data Mode” on phone.
• Disable auto-play videos in social apps.
• Allow updates on Wi-Fi only.
• Use Maps offline packs and Spotify/Netflix offline downloads.

Appendix E — If your company reimburses your phone

Choose a provider with downloadable VAT invoices and predictable pricing. Keep your plan at or under the monthly cap your employer sets.

Appendix F — Family & kids: controls that matter

• Enable content filters at the account level.
• Set spend caps and disable international calling by default.
• Use Screen Time/Family Link for app and time rules.

Appendix G — When to switch provider

• Poor indoor coverage persists after trying Wi-Fi Calling.
• Roaming rules changed and no longer fit your travel pattern.
• You find a 12-month SIM-only deal that halves your cost.

Appendix H — Travel eSIM playbook (outside EU)

1. Buy regional eSIM before you fly; download in advance.
2. On arrival, set travel eSIM as data line; keep UK line for calls/SMS.
3. Disable background sync for heavy apps on travel days.

Appendix I — 3-D Secure & SMS codes (banking)

• Some banks allow app-based approval instead of SMS.
• Set the correct line as default for SMS during verification.
• Switch back after receiving the code to avoid surprise costs.

Appendix J — Keep Italian WhatsApp with a UK SIM

WhatsApp is tied to your account, not the active SIM. After UK SIM activation, WhatsApp still works with your Italian number. If WhatsApp asks to re-verify, use the Italian SIM or call verification.

Appendix K — Small business: separate your number

Consider keeping one line for personal use and one for clients. Use call-forwarding or a cloud PBX app if you run appointments or deliveries.

Appendix L — If your phone is locked

• Contact original carrier to request unlock; provide IMEI.
• Use a temporary PAYG portable Wi-Fi (MiFi) or borrow a phone for setup.
• Plan for unlock processing time (days/weeks depending on carrier).

Appendix M — Data priority & MVNOs

Some virtual operators (MVNOs) may have lower traffic priority during congestion than the main network. If peak-hour speeds are vital, test with a main-brand plan in your area.

Appendix N — Wi-Fi Calling & indoor coverage hacks

• Enable Wi-Fi Calling in phone and provider account, if available.
• Place router high and central; avoid microwaves/metal objects.
• Consider powerline adapters to improve Wi-Fi by rooms.

Appendix O — Hotspot etiquette in house shares

• Agree on fair use; hotspot drains batteries and data.
• Prefer home broadband for streaming/gaming.
• Set a strong hotspot password and change it monthly.

Appendix P — Example spend scenarios (ballpark)

Appendix Q — SIM swap & security hygiene

• Lock your account with strong passwords and 2FA.
• Beware phishing texts. Providers won’t ask for full passwords by SMS.
• If you suspect SIM swap, contact provider immediately and freeze banking apps.

Appendix R — Invoices & admin

Download monthly receipts and keep them in a cloud folder named mobile_invoices_YYYY. Handy for expenses and visa paperwork.

Appendix S — Environment: refurb & recycle

• Consider refurbished devices from reputable sellers.
• Recycle old phones/SIMs at certified points; wipe data first.

Appendix T — Troubleshooting: mini decision tree

Appendix U — Template: toggle international calling

Hello,

Please enable international calling on my line <07xxxxxxxxx> with a spend cap of £5/day.
Alternatively, please keep it disabled and enable only when I request.
Thank you!

Appendix V — Template: request itemized invoice

Hello,

Could you please enable itemized billing and email monthly VAT invoices for account <xxxx>?
I need them for expense claims.

Thanks!

Appendix W — Cancel 30-day plan (polite)

Hello,

I would like to cancel my 30-day plan at the end of the current period. 
Please confirm the end date and that no further charges will be applied.

Kind regards,
<Your Name>

Appendix X — Switch bundle size next month

Hello,

Please change my plan for the next billing cycle to <bundle name/GB>. 
Keep auto-renew on the new price. Thank you!

Appendix Y — Phone lost: reissue eSIM

Hello,

My phone was lost/stolen. Please suspend my line and reissue the eSIM to a new device.
Number: <07xxxxxxxxx>. I can verify ID.

Thanks!

Appendix Z — Ask provider for a proof-of-number letter

Hello,

Could you issue a letter or PDF confirming that I am the account holder for number <07xxxxxxxxx>, 
showing my full name and billing address? I need it for HR/bank verification.

Many thanks!