Goodbye TIM, Hello Freedom: A Complete Guide to Switching from TIM to Iliad in Italy
Switching mobile providers can feel daunting, but in Italy, the process is designed to be relatively smooth and straightforward. If you’re currently with TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile) and considering a move to Iliad, you’re likely looking for a more transparent and potentially more affordable plan. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of switching from TIM to Iliad, ensuring a hassle-free transition.
## Why Choose Iliad?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s briefly touch on why many Italians are making the switch to Iliad. Iliad entered the Italian market with a disruptive approach, offering:
* **Competitive Pricing:** Iliad’s plans are often significantly cheaper than those of established providers like TIM.
* **Data-Rich Bundles:** Iliad usually offers generous data allowances at affordable prices, catering to the needs of modern smartphone users.
* **Transparency:** Iliad is known for its straightforward pricing and lack of hidden fees. What you see is generally what you pay.
* **No Speed Throttling (within data limits):** Unlike some providers, Iliad generally doesn’t throttle your speed within your allotted data allowance.
However, it’s important to note that Iliad’s network coverage might not be as extensive as TIM’s in some rural areas. Before switching, it’s wise to check Iliad’s coverage map in your specific location.
## Prerequisites: What You Need Before You Start
Before initiating the switch, gather the following essential information and documents:
* **Your TIM SIM Card:** You’ll need your current TIM SIM card throughout the process, so keep it handy.
* **Your TIM Account Details:** Knowing your TIM account details, such as your customer ID or account number, can be helpful, although not always strictly necessary. You can usually find this information on your TIM bills or by logging into the TIM website or app.
* **Your *Codice Fiscale* (Tax Identification Number):** This is essential for identification purposes when signing up for a new mobile plan in Italy.
* **A Valid Form of Identification:** You’ll need a valid ID card (*Carta d’Identità*) or passport for identification verification.
* **Your Current TIM Mobile Number (obviously!):** You’ll need the number you’re porting over.
* **An Email Address:** For creating your Iliad account and receiving important updates.
* **Payment Method:** Have your preferred payment method ready (credit card, debit card, or prepaid card). Iliad typically requires automatic billing.
* **ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier):** This is a 19-20 digit number printed on your TIM SIM card. You may need this during the online application process, especially if there are issues with the automatic number recognition.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Switching from TIM to Iliad
Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to migrating your mobile number from TIM to Iliad:
**1. Choose Your Iliad Plan:**
* **Visit the Iliad Website:** Go to the official Iliad Italy website ([https://www.iliad.it/](https://www.iliad.it/)).
* **Browse Available Plans:** Carefully review the different plans offered by Iliad. Pay attention to the data allowance, included minutes and SMS, roaming benefits, and monthly cost.
* **Consider Your Needs:** Choose the plan that best suits your data usage, calling habits, and budget. If you use a lot of data for streaming videos or social media, opt for a plan with a higher data allowance.
**2. Initiate the Online Application Process:**
* **Select Your Plan:** Click on the button (usually labeled “*Scopri l’offerta*” or “*Attiva Ora*”) to select your desired Iliad plan.
* **Start the Registration:** You’ll be redirected to the registration page. You can usually choose between activating a new number or porting your existing number from another provider (TIM, in this case).
* **Choose Number Portability (Portabilità del Numero):** Select the option to keep your existing TIM mobile number. This is crucial if you want to avoid the hassle of changing your number and notifying all your contacts.
**3. Provide Your Personal Information:**
* **Enter Required Details:** Carefully fill out the online form with your personal information, including your name, surname, date of birth, *Codice Fiscale*, address, email address, and phone number.
* **Double-Check for Accuracy:** Ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and matches the details on your ID card and *Codice Fiscale*. Inaccurate information can cause delays or rejection of your application.
**4. Enter Your TIM SIM Card and Number Information:**
* **Enter Your Current Mobile Number:** Provide the TIM mobile number you want to port to Iliad.
* **Enter Your ICCID (if requested):** The website may automatically detect your current operator. However, if prompted, enter the 19-20 digit ICCID number from your TIM SIM card. This is crucial for the portability process. The ICCID is usually printed on the SIM card itself.
* **Confirm Ownership of the Number:** You will likely need to confirm that you are the owner of the TIM number you are porting. This might involve answering a security question or receiving a confirmation code via SMS.
**5. Choose Your Payment Method:**
* **Select Payment Option:** Choose your preferred payment method. Iliad typically accepts credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards. Automatic billing is usually required.
* **Enter Payment Details:** Enter your card details carefully and ensure that the information is correct.
* **Review and Confirm:** Review the payment information and confirm your choice.
**6. Account Creation and Verification:**
* **Create an Iliad Account:** You will likely be prompted to create an Iliad account with a username and password. This will allow you to manage your account online, track your usage, and access support.
* **Verify Your Email Address:** Check your email inbox for a verification email from Iliad. Click on the link in the email to verify your email address. This step is essential for activating your account.
**7. ID Verification (Video Identification or Upload):**
* **Choose Verification Method:** Iliad requires you to verify your identity. This is often done either through a video identification process (usually with a third-party provider like Sign Identification) or by uploading a copy of your ID card (*Carta d’Identità*) or passport.
* **Video Identification (if applicable):** If you choose video identification, you’ll be connected to a representative who will guide you through the process. You’ll need to show them your ID card and answer a few questions to verify your identity. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a working webcam.
* **ID Upload (if applicable):** If you choose to upload your ID, take clear, high-quality photos or scans of both sides of your ID card or your passport. Ensure that all the information is legible. Upload the files as instructed on the website.
**8. Review and Submit Your Application:**
* **Carefully Review All Details:** Before submitting your application, carefully review all the information you have provided, including your personal details, TIM number, ICCID (if entered), payment information, and chosen plan.
* **Accept Terms and Conditions:** Read and accept the terms and conditions of Iliad’s service.
* **Submit Your Application:** Click on the button to submit your application. You will receive a confirmation email from Iliad acknowledging receipt of your application.
**9. Wait for Your Iliad SIM Card to Arrive:**
* **Delivery Time:** Iliad will ship your new SIM card to the address you provided during registration. Delivery times can vary, but it usually takes a few business days.
* **Track Your Shipment:** You may receive a tracking number to monitor the progress of your shipment.
**10. Activation and Number Portability:**
* **Activation SMS/Email:** Once your SIM card is ready for activation and the porting process is about to begin, you will receive an SMS or email from Iliad with instructions.
* **Insert the Iliad SIM Card:** Following the instructions in the activation message, insert your new Iliad SIM card into your phone.
* **Wait for Number Portability:** The number portability process typically takes 1-3 business days. During this time, your TIM SIM card will continue to work. You will receive an SMS from Iliad when the porting is complete.
* **Reboot Your Phone:** Once the porting is complete and you receive the confirmation SMS, reboot your phone. Your Iliad SIM card should now be active with your original TIM mobile number.
## Important Considerations During the Transition:
* **Keep Your TIM SIM Active:** Do not cancel your TIM contract or deactivate your TIM SIM card until the number portability process is complete. Cancelling prematurely can disrupt the porting process.
* **Monitor SMS Messages:** Pay close attention to SMS messages from both TIM and Iliad during the transition. These messages will contain important information about the porting process and any potential issues.
* **Potential Service Interruption:** There may be a brief period of service interruption (usually a few hours) during the number portability process when your phone will not be able to make or receive calls or use data. This is normal.
* **TIM Contract Termination:** After the number portability is complete, your TIM contract will automatically be terminated. You do not need to take any further action to cancel your TIM service.
* **Voicemail Reset:** After the porting is complete, you may need to reconfigure your voicemail settings on your Iliad SIM card.
* **Check APN Settings (if necessary):** In some cases, you may need to manually configure the APN (Access Point Name) settings on your phone to enable data connectivity with your Iliad SIM card. Iliad usually provides these settings on their website or in their activation instructions. You can usually find the APN settings under your phone’s mobile network settings.
* **Dealing with Potential Problems:** If you encounter any problems during the switching process, such as delays in number portability or issues with activation, contact Iliad’s customer support for assistance. Be prepared to provide your application details and relevant information.
## Checking Iliad Coverage
Before committing to the switch, it’s always a good idea to check Iliad’s network coverage in your area. You can do this by:
* **Visiting the Iliad Website:** Iliad typically has a coverage map on their website that shows the areas where they have strong coverage. Keep in mind that coverage maps are estimates, and actual coverage may vary depending on your location and surroundings.
* **Asking Friends or Neighbors:** Talk to friends or neighbors who are already using Iliad and ask about their experience with the network coverage in your area.
## Conclusion
Switching from TIM to Iliad can be a smart move if you’re looking for more affordable and transparent mobile plans. By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the process smoothly and enjoy the benefits of Iliad’s services. Remember to gather all the necessary information beforehand, carefully follow the instructions, and don’t hesitate to contact Iliad’s customer support if you encounter any issues. Good luck, and welcome to Iliad!