By What is Orange France Telecom?
Orange France, formerly known as France Télécom, is the country's largest telecommunications provider. It offers a full range of services such as mobile phone plans, fibre internet, landline, and TV bundles, to both individuals and businesses across France.
Today, Orange is one of Europe's leading telecom operators, with more than 40 million customers in France alone. It's known for its reliable network coverage, fast fibre broadband, and good customer service, including support available in English for newcomers and expats.
A quick look at Orange's history:
Before 2000
Operated under the name France Télécom, the state-owned phone company.
2000s
Rebranded as Orange, the name of its UK mobile division, and expanded to mobile and internet.
Today
Fully privatized and known globally as Orange Telecom France, part of the Orange Group operating in 26 countries.
Orange France still runs the country's most extensive fibre broadband network, making it the go-to provider if you're looking for a reliable internet connection when settling in France.
Orange mobile phone plans in France
Orange SIM-only mobile plans
If you already have a phone and just need a French SIM card, Orange's SIM-only mobile plans (known in French as "forfaits sans engagement") are a flexible and affordable choice. These plans come without a handset, meaning you're free from any long-term contract and can cancel or upgrade whenever you like.
They're ideal for expats, students, or anyone settling in France who wants a local mobile number without paying extra for a new phone. Orange offers several options ranging from small data bundles for occasional users to generous 5G plans for heavy streamers or frequent travellers. If you're not sure which plan to choose, you can check out our dedicated page "How much data do I need?".
It may also be worth noting that the provider offers special Orange promotions throughout the year, so check out our page dedicated to discounts every now and then to get yourself the deal that'll best suit your needs and budget.
Here's why many people choose a SIM-only deal with Orange France:
- →No commitment: change or cancel anytime ;
- →Access to Orange's 4G and 5G network, one of the most reliable in France ;
- →Use your data across the EU without extra charges ;
- →Keep your existing phone and number (if compatible with French networks).
As prices tend to change quite regularly (limited time offers, etc), check out Orange's website for the latest offers.
All SIM-only Orange plans include unlimited calls and texts within France (except the 2h 100 MB plan), and most also let you call or use data in Europe at no extra cost — perfect if you travel often or go home for holidays.
Aucun forfait disponible pour les filtres sélectionnés.
Offer tariff
/mo for months, then /mo
/mo (fixed price)
Annualised cost
Over 12 months:
Over 24 months:
Fees
Activation:
SIM card:
Cancellation:
Commitment
Plan
network
in France
Calls/SMS/MMS unlimited
Calls unlimited
Calls limited
Calls pay-as-you-go
SMS unlimited
SMS limited
SMS pay-as-you-go
Abroad
EU/DOM:
Not specified
Services
eSIM compatible
Données issues du comparateur Selectra. Mis à jour le .
Non-exhaustive selection of telecom offers, sorted by price.
Orange mobile plans with a phone included
If you prefer to get a new smartphone with your Orange subscription, the provider also offers several mobile plans with a handset included ("forfaits avec téléphone"). These are 12- or 24-month contracts where you pay a lower upfront price for your phone, then a fixed monthly fee that covers both the device and your mobile plan.
This option is great if:
- ✓You want to spread the cost of a new phone over time
- ✓You're planning to stay in France for a year or longer
- ✓You like having the latest models (such as iPhone, Samsung and more) with easy upgrades
If you choose a plan with a phone, remember that it's usually locked to the Orange network for the duration of your contract. However, you can request an unlock code for free once your plan ends or if you need to use your phone abroad.
Aucun forfait disponible pour les filtres sélectionnés.
Offer tariff
/mo for months, then /mo
/mo (fixed price)
Annualised cost
Over 12 months:
Over 24 months:
Fees
Activation:
SIM card:
Cancellation:
Commitment
Plan
network
in France
Calls/SMS/MMS unlimited
Calls unlimited
Calls limited
Calls pay-as-you-go
SMS unlimited
SMS limited
SMS pay-as-you-go
Abroad
EU/DOM:
Not specified
Services
eSIM compatible
Données issues du comparateur Selectra. Mis à jour le .
Non-exhaustive selection of telecom offers, sorted by price.
Orange mobile network coverage and quality
When it comes to mobile coverage in France, Orange is consistently rated the best network for both reliability and speed. From busy cities like Paris and Marseille to remote rural areas, Orange provides nationwide 4G coverage and one of the largest 5G networks in Europe.
The Orange France mobile network stands out for:
- →Excellent call and data quality, even in less populated areas ;
- →High-speed 4G and 5G for streaming, browsing, and video calls ;
- →Strong rural coverage, ideal for those living outside city centres ;
- →Ongoing investment in 5G rollout and sustainable infrastructure.
Orange Internet & broadband offers in France
Orange Fibre optics offers in France
If you're looking for fast and reliable internet in France, Orange Fibre is one of the best options available. The operator provides several fibre optics plans designed for different needs and budgets, from essential home use to ultra-fast 8 Gbit/s connections for power users and large households.
Orange's fibre network is one of the most extensive in France, covering millions of homes in both cities and rural areas. Prices for fibre plans start from 29,99€/month up to 47,99€/month during the first year promotional period.
You can use the tool below to check fibre availability in your area and see which Livebox plan best suits your needs, from the entry-level Livebox Lite Fibre to the ultra-fast Livebox Max Fibre.
All Orange Fibre deals include:
- ✓Unlimited high-speed internet with stable download and upload speeds
- ✓A Livebox modem (router) with easy plug-and-play installation
- ✓Optional Orange TV service with 140+ channels and on-demand content
- ✓An option to combine your broadband and mobile plans under a single bill (offre Open)
See what's available at your door
We check fibre, VDSL, 4G/5G box and satellite across every operator — instantly.
Free · no sign-up · live ARCEP data
Double-check the number and postcode, or start typing to see suggestions. You can also call an adviser and we'll check it together.
* Promotional price for the first months. Regular price may apply thereafter.
Aucune offre disponible pour les filtres sélectionnés.
Offer tariff
/mo for months, then /mo
/mo (fixed price)
Annualised cost
Over 12 months:
Over 24 months:
Fees
Activation:
Cancellation:
Commitment
Performance
Up to download
Up to upload
Wi-Fi
Phone
Landline calls unlimited in France
Landline calls limited
Landline calls pay-as-you-go
Mobile calls unlimited in France
Mobile calls limited
Mobile calls pay-as-you-go
Not included
included
TV included
Set-top box included
Streaming included:
No TV
Data from the Selectra comparator. Updated on .
Orange Open: combine your Internet and mobile plans
If you're looking to simplify your bills and save money, Orange's Open offers let you combine your fibre (or ADSL) broadband plan with one or more mobile plans under a single contract. It's a convenient all-in-one solution, ideal for families, couples, or anyone who uses multiple Orange services.
With Orange Open, you can:
- →Get a discount on your mobile plan when you bundle it with your home internet. Depending on your mobile plan, this can range from €5 to €15 per month, which adds up to up to €240 in savings per year ;
- →Manage all your subscriptions in one place via your Orange customer area (Espace Client) ;
- →Enjoy shared data and benefits across family members.
There are several combinations available, depending on which Livebox Fibre plan you choose and how many mobile lines you want to include.
If you already have an Orange mobile plan and move into a new home, consider switching to an Open bundle instead of keeping your contracts separate. It's often cheaper overall and easier to manage.
1 Choose your fibre box
2 Add your mobile plans
Up to plans — /
What are the MVNO on the Orange network?
Sosh: Orange quality at a lower price
If you like the Orange network but prefer a simpler and cheaper plan, Sosh is the perfect alternative. Fully owned by Orange, Sosh lets you enjoy the same fibre and 4G/5G coverage and reliability, but with no-contract offers and lower monthly prices - ideal if you want flexibility without giving up quality.
- →The Sosh Internet offer : Sosh offers a single home Internet plan, available via Fibre or ADSL, for 24,99€/month. It's a no-contract offer, and while there's no TV decoder, you still get access to over 200 TV channels via the Orange TV app on your smartphone or tablet, perfect for watching on the go or connecting to your smart TV. Installation is simple, and since it runs on Orange's fibre network, you'll enjoy excellent stability and speed
; - →Sosh mobile plans : Sosh also provides a range of SIM-only mobile plans designed to fit every need and budget, from 1 GB for light users to 300 GB for heavy data consumers. Prices start at just 1,99€/month and go up to 20,99€/month, depending on data volume and 5G access. All plans include unlimited calls and texts within France and across the EU, with no long-term commitment.
- ✓Lower prices, same Orange quality
- ✓Access to the full Orange 4G/5G network
- ✓No contract, cancel anytime
- ✓EU roaming included
- ✓200+ TV channels via the Orange TV app
All Sosh support is done online, through chat or the app. This helps keep prices down, but if you prefer face-to-face assistance, you might want to stay with Orange.
Other mobile providers using the Orange network
Several MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) in France use the Orange network to deliver mobile service, so you can still benefit from Orange's excellent coverage, often at lower prices. Each of these brands has its own advantages: some focus on low-cost SIMs, others on international calling or prepaid options.
Lebara International calls
Popular with expats. Cheap calls abroad and flexible prepaid plans.
YouPrice Flexible data
Adjust your data package every month. Choice of Orange or SFR network.
La Poste Mobile In-person support
Simple plans with support available at post offices across France.
Nordnet Rural areas
Orange subsidiary for rural & remote areas. Broadband + mobile bundles.
If you're moving to France and mainly need a temporary or flexible plan while settling in, one of these MVNOs could be a smart first choice. You'll get reliable coverage without long-term commitment.
How to subscribe to an Orange Internet or mobile plan from abroad
Moving to France or planning your arrival soon? The good news is that you can subscribe to Orange services even before you set foot in the country - whether you need a mobile plan, a fibre connection, or both. Here's how it works and what to prepare.
What you'll need to subscribe to an Orange plan
When subscribing to an Orange mobile or internet plan, you'll usually be asked for:
Proof of identity
Passport or EU ID card
French address
Temporary address (hotel, Airbnb) is accepted
IBAN (bank account)
European SEPA IBAN accepted — no French account needed
Email & phone number
To receive order confirmation and delivery updates
Subscribe to an Orange plan
Subscribing to Orange services from abroad is simple and fully digital, but if you prefer some guidance (especially in English), there are several options to make the process easier.
If you already know your future French address, you can:
- →Subscribe directly online via the official Orange website: The process only takes a few minutes, you'll choose your plan, enter your details, and upload any required documents (such as ID or proof of address). You'll then receive a confirmation email and your SIM card or equipment will be shipped to your new French home.
- →Call Selectra's English-speaking advisors, who can help you compare offers, check your fibre eligibility, and complete the subscription process on your behalf. They can also answer questions about activation timelines, installation fees, or how to transfer your number from another operator.
- →Visit an Orange store (boutique Orange) once you're in France. This is ideal if you prefer face-to-face service, or if you need to show your documents in person (for example, to set up an Internet line in a new home).
Depending on your plan, you may be asked to schedule a technician appointment to activate your internet connection. This can be arranged in advance for your move-in date, so your Wi-Fi is ready as soon as you arrive.
How to Cancel an Orange Subscription?
If you're leaving France, switching provider, or simply want to cancel your services with Orange (mobile or internet), the good news is that it's mostly straightforward. Here's what you need to know, including online cancellation options and when a registered letter is still required.
Cancelling an Orange mobile plan
- →IYou can cancel your no-contract mobile plan at any time without any cancellation fees.
- →You can cancel directly from your online account (“Espace Client”) or by calling Orange customer service.
- →If you're moving abroad for more than six months, you may be eligible for termination without fees, provided you can show proof of your move (for example, a foreign address).
- →If you want to keep your mobile number, request your RIO code (by calling 3179) before cancelling - it allows you to transfer your number to another provider.
💡 How to Keep Your Phone Number?
To keep your phone number when changing providers you need to find out your RIO (Relevé d'Identité Opérateur - a unique identifying number that is assigned to your phone number). This is a 12-digit number that you can find by dialling 3179 (to automatically receive your RIO in a text), or in your personal space online. You then will need to communicate this number to your new provider and they will take care of the rest (transferring your number, cancelling service your old provider)!
Cancelling an Orange Internet plan
You generally have three ways to cancel an Internet plan with Orange:
- →From your online customer area (Espace Client), under My offer / My contract, then select Cancel.
- →By phone, by calling Orange customer service (3900 from France).
- →By sending a registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt (lettre recommandée avec avis de réception) to the Orange cancellation address.
If you're moving abroad or switching technologies (for example, from ADSL to fibre), you may need to provide proof to avoid early termination fees. After cancellation, you'll receive instructions to return your Livebox equipment (usually within 30 days).
💡 Good to know
- →Always ask for written confirmation of your cancellation (email or postal letter with the effective termination date).
- →Keep copies of any proof or documents you send to Orange ;
- →If you forget to cancel before leaving France, your plan may automatically renew and continue to generate monthly charges ;
- →For mobile plans, most cancellations can now be done entirely online, but in some cases, you may still be asked to call or send a letter to finalise the process.
The history of Orange (France Telecom)
Orange is one of the oldest telecom operators in Europe. The company began as France Télécom, a public state-owned entity that managed the country's telephone network. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, France Télécom started to modernise its services and expand internationally: that's when the Orange brand first appeared, originally from a British mobile operator acquired by France Télécom in 2000.
The Orange name quickly became the group's main identity, and in 2013, France Télécom officially changed its name to Orange S.A. to unify all its mobile, internet, and business services under one brand.
As a response to the launching of Free mobile to the French mobile phone market, Orange launched a low-cost brand called Sosh in 2011, through which it sells commitment-free (sans engagement) mobile phone plans.
Today, Orange is the largest telecom provider in France, with millions of customers across Europe and Africa.
Key milestones:
1988
France Télécom becomes a separate entity from the French state.
2000
Acquisition of UK-based Orange and launch of the Orange brand.
2004
Partial privatisation and entry on the stock market.
2013
France Télécom officially becomes Orange S.A.
Today
Orange operates in over 25 countries and continues to invest heavily in fibre and 5G networks.
Despite the name change, many older references to "France Télécom" still appear on bills, technical documents or installations — they all refer to the same company: Orange S.A.