Ruqayyah Snyder
If you're moving to Australia and want to keep your US phone number, there are several options for porting it to an Australian number. One popular method is to use Google Voice, which allows you to port your US mobile number for a one-time fee of $25. Google Voice offers free texting to the US and Canada, but it doesn't forward numbers internationally. Alternatively, you can use a service like Flynumber, which charges $30 to port your existing number, which can then be forwarded to a VOIP account or a regular phone number for a small monthly fee. Another option is to use a Truphone SIM, which includes both the US and Australia on the same SIM, allowing you to port your number and use a dual SIM phone. If you're looking for a cheaper option, you can consider porting your number to a service like MagicJack, which offers low-cost international calling and texting.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of porting a US number to Google Voice | $25 |
| Cost of porting an existing number to Flynumber | $30 |
| Cost of porting an existing number to MagicJack | $40 |
| International exit code for the US | 011 |
| Country code for Australia | 61 |
| Cost of porting a number to an Australian Phone VoIP service | Free |
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What You'll Learn
Using Google Voice to port your US number
Google Voice is a virtual phone number provider that gives you a cloud phone number for calls, texts, and voicemails. It is available in Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, and the US.
Google Voice can be used to port your US number to Australia. Here's how:
First, sign up for Google Voice before you leave the US or before you discontinue cell service. You will need a valid Google account and a US phone number (landline or mobile) to create a Google Voice account. There is a service charge to port your existing number to Google Voice, which is around $25.
Once you have signed up, you can use your Google Voice number to make and receive calls, send and receive text messages, and set up voicemail and call forwarding. Google Voice calls to the US and Canada are free, but there are charges for international calls, which differ by country.
When using Google Voice outside the US, international calls will use minutes from your mobile phone plan, and your mobile phone company may charge you extra roaming fees. To avoid these charges, ensure that your calls are routed through Google Voice. To do this, keep the Google Voice app open on your device when making international calls.
Google Voice can be a useful tool for staying connected with family and friends in the US while living abroad. It also allows you to maintain your US phone number for security reasons, such as two-factor authentication for banks and credit cards.
Note that Google Voice may not be officially available in Australia, so you may need to use a VPN or a temporary number with a VoIP provider to access the service.
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Forwarding your Google Voice number to an Australian number
Google Voice allows you to port your US mobile number to them for $25. This service provides free texting to the US or Canada, but it will not forward your number abroad. However, you can make free VOIP calls using Talkatone (iOS) or GrooveIP (Android).
If you want to forward your Google Voice number to an Australian number, you can port your current number to Google Voice and then get a number from a company like Localphone, which you can then forward to your Australian number. Alternatively, you can port your number to Google Voice and then forward it to a VOIP forwarding service. That way, you can receive text messages and voice calls.
To set up custom call forwarding with Google Voice on your computer, go to Google Voice and click on "Settings" in the top right corner. Then, click on "Calls" on the left side and click on "Manage rules" under "Custom call forwarding". From here, you can forward calls to one or more of your linked numbers or directly to voicemail. You can also play a custom voicemail greeting and screen calls.
It is important to note that some Australian VOIP carriers block VOIP on their prepaid plans, so you may need to find a specific carrier that allows this. Additionally, you may need to pay a fee for forwarding calls to an international number.
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Using MagicJack to port your US number
If you're looking to port your US number to an Australian number, one option is to use MagicJack. MagicJack is a subscription-based online calling service that allows you to make international calls at low rates without the need for extra equipment. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use MagicJack to port your US number:
Step 1: Sign up for MagicJack
Visit the MagicJack website and sign up for an account. You will need to provide your personal and payment information to create an account. MagicJack offers various subscription plans, so choose one that suits your needs and budget.
Step 2: Log into your MagicJack account
Once you have signed up, log into your MagicJack account using your credentials. You can do this by visiting the MagicJack website and clicking on the "Login" or "Sign In" button.
Step 3: Initiate the port order
To start the process of transferring your US number to MagicJack, click on the appropriate link or button within your MagicJack account. Follow the prompts and instructions provided by MagicJack to submit your transfer request.
Step 4: Provide the necessary information
When submitting your transfer request, you will need to provide certain details, such as your account number, owner name, address, and PIN. Ensure that your PIN is a six-digit number. If it isn't, you can change it by accessing the "Manage Login" tab within your MagicJack account.
Step 5: Wait for the transfer to complete
The number transfer process typically takes between 7 and 15 business days for US numbers. During this time, you can still make outbound calls from your MagicJack, but you will not receive incoming calls placed to your US number until the transfer is completed.
Troubleshooting
If your port request fails, there may be several reasons, including mismatches in names or account numbers with your current service provider. Depending on the issue, you may be able to correct the information submitted with your transfer order by logging into your MagicJack account or contacting your current service provider. If needed, you can also cancel your port request and retain the number assigned to you when you registered with MagicJack.
By following these steps, you can successfully use MagicJack to port your US number. Remember to refer to the MagicJack website and support resources for the most up-to-date and detailed instructions.
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$7.99
Using a Truphone SIM to port your number
Porting your number to a Truphone SIM is a straightforward process. Firstly, you will need to purchase either a physical SIM or an eSIM from Truphone. If you opt for a physical SIM, it will be shipped to your contract administrator, who will then provide it to you. On the other hand, if you choose an eSIM, Truphone will send you an email containing a QR code, which eliminates the need for a physical SIM card.
Once you have your SIM card, it is recommended to test it by installing it on your device. This preliminary test will allow you to verify your internet access and confirm that you can make and receive calls with your temporary number. If any issues arise during this test phase, Truphone Customer Service is available to assist you.
Before the porting process commences, you will receive a notification via text message. This message will be sent to your current phone number, so ensure that you still have access to your old SIM card to view the notification. During the porting process itself, you may experience a brief interruption in service as your former operator removes your number from their network, and Truphone adds it to theirs.
To complete the porting process, your former operator and Truphone will exchange the necessary information to ensure a smooth transfer. This information exchange will configure your number to be recognised as part of the Truphone network. Truphone will then associate your name and contact details with your new SIM card. Your SIM card will have a temporary number until the porting process is finalised, at which point your definitive number will be assigned.
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Porting your landline number to an Australian VoIP service
Step 1: Check Compatibility
First, confirm if your landline number is eligible for transfer to an Australian VoIP service. Local numbers (starting with 02, 03, 07, and 08), mobile numbers (starting with 04), freephone numbers (starting with 1800), and local rate numbers (starting with 13 and 1300) are typically portable. However, some non-geographic and special numbers may have restrictions.
Step 2: Choose a VoIP Provider
Select a VoIP service provider in Australia that suits your needs. Popular options include Australian Phone, NSW IT Support, Google Voice, and MagicJack. Each provider may have different requirements and limitations, so be sure to review their specific instructions and eligibility criteria.
Step 3: Inform Your New Provider
Contact your chosen Australian VoIP service provider and inform them of your intention to transfer your existing landline number. They will guide you through their specific porting process and requirements.
Step 4: Obtain a Letter of Authorisation (LOA)
To initiate the porting process, you will need to provide your new VoIP provider with a Letter of Authorisation (LOA). This grants them permission to start the transfer process on your behalf.
Step 5: Submit the LOA and Wait for Porting
Once you have submitted the LOA, your new provider will create a Local Service Request (LSR) to instruct your old landline service provider to start porting your number. The standard turnaround time for porting a landline number is typically around 10 working days, including time for verification and the actual port.
Step 6: Test Your New Number
Once the porting process is complete, test your new VoIP number to ensure it is functioning properly before cancelling your old landline service. This will ensure continuity in your communication services during the transition.
Additional Considerations:
- Costs and Fees: Be aware of any costs or obligations imposed by your current service provider, such as early termination fees or porting fees. These additional charges may apply, so check with your existing carrier before submitting a porting request.
- Internet Service: If your number is connected to certain services, such as DSL or specific NBN services, porting to a VoIP service may disrupt your Internet service. Always check with your current provider to understand how porting may impact your Internet connection.
- Timing: The porting process can take around 8-15 business days. Maintain your old service during this time to avoid any disruptions in communication.
- International Number Porting: If you are porting an international number, additional considerations may apply. For example, porting a US number to Australia may involve using services like Flynumber, Google Voice, or Truphone.
By following these steps and considerations, you can successfully port your landline number to an Australian VoIP service, enjoying the flexibility and convenience of modern VoIP communications while retaining your established phone number.
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Frequently asked questions
Local Number Portability (LNP) allows customers to port their landline numbers to an Australian Phone VoIP service. You can submit a Number Porting Request to an Australian Phone Company online, by email, or by fax.
Porting a single number to an Australian Phone Company is free. However, there may be additional costs imposed by your current service provider, such as early termination fees or porting fees.
The standard turnaround time for a porting request is typically 10 working days (5 for port verification and 5 for the actual port).
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) from a mobile phone number to a VoIP residential service is not accepted or supported.
Yes, you can port your American number to Google Voice for $25 and then forward it to a VOIP account or a regular phone number for a small monthly fee. Alternatively, you can use a service like MagicJack or Skype to make international calls at a low price.
