Guatemala Approves Decreto 14-2025: Keep Your Number When Switching Carriers

Guatemala has taken a major step toward strengthening user rights in telecommunications with the approval of Decreto 14-2025, a new legal framework that allows mobile users to retain their phone number even when changing service providers. The change is expected to simplify processes, reduce friction for consumers, and reshape competition across the sector.

A Turning Point for Mobile Services in Guatemala

On November 11, 2025, Guatemala’s Congress approved the Ley Portabilidad Numérica en Telefonía Móvil, establishing the legal basis for full number portability in the country. Once the decree is officially published in the Diario Oficial, users will no longer need to replace their phone number when moving from one telecom operator to another.

Before this law, switching companies meant adopting a new number and updating it across personal and professional contacts, a burdensome process the new legislation aims to eliminate.

The Congress emphasized the importance of the measure, noting that “the telephone number functions as a personal identifier, comparable to the DPI and other legal means used to identify an individual.”

They added that altering a number directly impacts users’ daily activities, both at work and at home.

What the New Law Establishes

1. Users Become the Owners of Their Mobile Number

The legislation states that userswhether using prepaid or postpaid lines, will be recognized as the owners of their phone numbers. As a result, they will have the freedom to decide which telecom company provides their service without losing their number.

2. SIT Will Define the Operational Rules

As part of Decreto 14-2025, the Superintendencia de Telecomunicaciones (SIT) must issue detailed administrative and technical regulations for implementing number portability. This regulatory framework must be published within two months after the decree takes effect.

How Number Portability Will Work

A User-Centered Process

The request to transfer a phone number must be initiated with the new telecom provider, which will manage all necessary steps with the current company. Both companies are required to collaborate to enable the transfer smoothly.

The Legislative Branch stressed that the process must be “agile, efficient, timely, and free of charge for customers.”

The new provider is obligated to offer clear information about requirements, timelines and any relevant instructions.

Minimal Requirements

The regulation must guarantee a simple process, available both in person and online. Users will only be required to present their Documento de Identificación Personal (DPI).

Who Can Request Number Portability?

All individuals will be able to request number portability, regardless of plan type, length of service, or other conditions—provided certain criteria are met:

• The mobile line must be active.
• The number cannot be part of another pending portability request.
• The user must not hold a liquid and enforceable debt with the current telecom provider.

When Will the Law Take Effect?

Although the legislation has been approved, it is still awaiting publication in the Diario Oficial. Only then will the law officially enter into force.

We encourage readers to stay tuned to our updates—we will continue reporting as soon as the authorities release official timelines and additional information.