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FAQ Mobile Phone Migration

On March 5, 2026, Nikhef will switch to a new mobile telephony provider. On this date, we will migrate from Vodafone to KPN. This change applies to all Nikhef users with a mobile phone number provided by Nikhef. Everyone affected has already received an email about this.

What does this mean for you?

  • You will keep your current mobile phone number
  • You will receive a new SIM card from KPN
  • By default, you will receive the same type of SIM card you are currently using:
  • physical SIM → physical SIM
  • eSIM → eSIM
  • There are, of course, no costs associated with this transition for you as a user

SIM cards: what will I receive and what do I need to do?

Physical SIM card

If you are currently using a physical SIM card, you will receive a new physical SIM card from KPN.

  • Physical SIM cards can be collected at the Nikhef helpdesk
  • Collection period: starting Monday, February 23, 2026
  • The new SIM card will become active on March 5, 2026
  • One hour before your number is ported, you will receive an SMS. After that hour, you will temporarily not be reachable. At that time, you can replace the SIM card; afterwards, you will be reachable again.

Important: Only replace your current SIM card on or after March 5, 2026

eSIM

If you are currently using an eSIM, you will receive a new eSIM.

  • You will receive activation instructions in advance via your Nikhef email address
  • Make sure you are near a Wi-Fi connection so you can access your email
  • The eSIM will be activated on March 5, 2026
  • One hour before your number is ported, you will receive an SMS. After that hour, you will temporarily not be reachable.
  • At that time, you can switch the SIM.
  • When activating the eSIM, enter the confirmation code: 2026.

Prefer a different type of SIM card?

Would you prefer a different type of SIM card than the one you currently use (for example, switching from a physical SIM to an eSIM or vice versa)? That is possible.

  • Reply to the migration email that was sent or send an email to helpdesk@nikhef.nl by Thursday, January 29
  • Clearly indicate which type of SIM card you would like

Receive your SIM card by post

Unable to collect your physical SIM card at the helpdesk? We can send it to you in advance by post.

  • Reply to the migration email that was sent or send an email to helpdesk@nikhef.nl by Thursday, January 29
  • Include the full postal address where the SIM card should be sent, within the Netherlands or abroad

What will happen on March 5, 2026?

On March 5, 2026, your mobile subscription will be migrated from Vodafone to KPN.

  • Your phone number will be transferred to KPN during the day
  • One hour before your number is ported, you will receive an SMS. After that hour, you will temporarily not be reachable. At that time, you can replace the SIM card; afterwards, you will be reachable again
  • The new SIM card will become active
  • It is possible that your phone may briefly lose network connectivity during the day

No connection?

If you have no connection to KPN after replacing the SIM card, first check the following:

  1. Is the new SIM card inserted or activated?
  2. Restart your phone
  3. Does the problem persist? Contact the helpdesk (visit us or attend the Office Hours on March 5 at 13:00)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will my phone work with KPN?

Most modern phones work seamlessly with the KPN network. Unsure? Please contact the helpdesk.

Do I need to adjust any settings?

In most cases, this is not necessary. For eSIM users, activation instructions will be sent to your Nikhef email address.

What if I am abroad on March 5, 2026?

That is not a problem. You can insert the physical SIM card into your phone on March 5. In the case of an eSIM, you will receive instructions via your Nikhef email address.

What happens if I collect my SIM card too late?

Your current SIM card will no longer work after the migration. Please contact the helpdesk as soon as possible.

Will my contacts, apps, or messages be affected?

No. The migration only concerns your mobile subscription. All data on your phone will remain intact.

Problems or questions?

Please contact the Nikhef helpdesk.

On March 5, CT Office Hours will also take place at 13:00. If you encounter any issues, feel free to stop by.