How to get a virtual phone number in the UK

A virtual phone number is a real phone number that is not tied to a SIM card or a phone line. Calls to it travel over the internet to an app on your phone, or are forwarded to any phone you choose. That makes it an easy way to get a second number: for a business, a side project, or simply to keep your personal number private.

Step 1: Decide what the number is for

The right choice depends on what you need it to do:

• A business number that customers call and that you can switch off after hours. You will want working hours, voicemail and the ability to call out with the number. See business phone numbers.
• A local presence in a town or city you serve. Choose a geographic 01 or 02 number. See virtual landlines.
• A UK-wide number that is not tied to one place. Choose a 033 number.
• A number for WhatsApp Business, so customers can message the business rather than you. See WhatsApp Business numbers.

Step 2: Choose the type of number

Calls to 01, 02 and 033 numbers usually come out of callers' inclusive minutes, so customers are not put off by the cost of calling.

Step 3: Choose a provider

Things worth checking before you sign up:

• Can you make calls with the number, not just receive them? Otherwise customers see your mobile number when you call back.
• Can you choose the area code and the number?
• What is the total monthly cost, including setup fees and per-minute charges?
• Is there a contract, or is it month to month?
• Are working hours and voicemail included?
• Is there a free trial so you can test it on your phone?

We cover these in more detail in how to choose a virtual landline.

A note on free numbers: free virtual number apps are often designed for one-off verification codes or short-term use, and numbers can be recycled. If customers will rely on the number, choose one you keep for as long as you pay for it.

Step 4: Set it up

With Digital Numbers, setup takes a few minutes:

1. Choose your number: pick an area code and a number, or a 033 number.
2. Start the 7-day free trial. The number is active straight away.
3. Install the app on your iPhone or Android phone, or set a forwarding number in your dashboard.

It costs £7.99 a month, or £79.99 a year, after the trial, with no setup fee and no contract.

Common questions

How do I get a virtual phone number?

Choose a provider, pick your number, then install the provider's app or set call forwarding. With Digital Numbers you choose a number, start a 7-day free trial and are taking calls within minutes.

Can I get a UK virtual number for free?

Free virtual numbers exist, but they are usually meant for short-term or verification use and can be recycled. For a number customers will rely on, a paid number you keep is the safer choice.

Do I need a second phone for a virtual number?

No. A virtual number works through an app on the phone you already have, or by forwarding calls to any phone.

Can I choose my own virtual number?

With Digital Numbers, yes. Choose an area code and pick from the numbers available, or choose a 033 number.