By What is SFR France?
SFR (Société Française du Radiotéléphone) is one of the main Internet and mobile providers in France. Founded in 1987 and now owned by Altice France, SFR offers a wide range of services, from fibre broadband and TV packages to mobile plans and prepaid SIM cards. With over 25 million customers, SFR is a popular choice among both locals and expats settling in France.
SFR's offers are known for their strong network coverage and attractive bundles that combine Internet, French TV and mobile. Whether you're moving to France for work, studies or long-term residence, SFR can provide everything you need to get connected quickly and easily.
In 2011 SFR launched a low-cost brand, RED by SFR, through which it offers no-contract mobile phone and internet plans (sans engagement).
SFR France offers include:
- ✓Fibre and ADSL broadband for homes and apartments
- ✓Mobile plans with 4G and 5G coverage nationwide
- ✓Prepaid SIM cards (no contract, ideal for short stays)
- ✓SFR TV and entertainment options, including over 200 channels
- ✓International calling and roaming options across Europe
SFR's website is mainly in French, but you can subscribe to SFR offers in English through partners like Selectra, which help expats compare deals and sign up with English-speaking support.
📰 Update: SFR takeover news (2025)
In October 2025, Bouygues Telecom, Orange and Free made a joint €17 billion offer to buy SFR from its parent company, Altice France. The proposal was immediately rejected, so no changes affect customers for now, but future developments could reshape the French telecom market.
SFR Internet & Fibre Offers
You can start by using the tool below to check fibre availability in your area and see which SFR Internet plan best suits your needs.
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* Promotional price for the first months. Regular price may apply thereafter.
SFR SIM Cards & mobile offers in France
SFR offers a wide range of mobile plans and prepaid options to suit all needs, whether you're an expat settling in France, a student, or simply looking for a flexible SIM card. All plans include 5G access, allowing you to enjoy high-speed mobile Internet throughout France.
SFR post-paid mobile plans
SFR offers a broad selection of SIM-only mobile plans that allow you to keep your existing device while enjoying the full performance of the SFR network. These plans are highly flexible and ideal for expats who already own a smartphone or prefer to change it freely.
All of them are no-contract (sans engagement). The data allowances vary widely, from minimal usage to heavy data consumption, so you can choose depending on your habits while living in France. If you're not sure which plan to choose, check out our dedicated page "How much data do I need?".
What makes SFR's SIM-only offerings interesting for expats in France:
- →You can subscribe quickly once you provide proof of address and ID. Many plans are activated same day.
- →The SFR network supports 4G and 5G so you get high speeds if your device is compatible.
- →You get discount on your mobile plan if you already have an SFR home internet offer (Box), making it a good option if you're bundling fixed + mobile.
If you're staying only temporarily in France (study, work, travel), choosing a no-contract SIM-only plan means you're not locked in for 12 or 24 months and can cancel freely when you leave.
Non-exhaustive selection of telecom offers, sorted by price.
SFR mobile deals with a phone included
For users who prefer a new device bundled with their mobile subscription, SFR offers mobile plans with a handset. These contracts typically involve a 24-month commitment in exchange for subsidised smartphones or payment instalments. This type of subscription is suited to those setting up life in France for the long term or wanting a new high-end handset without paying upfront.
Here are key aspects to consider:
- ✓The monthly cost covers both the mobile plan (data, calls, SMS) and part of the handset cost; you effectively spread the phone price.
- ✓Because of the commitment period, check the early-termination terms: expats should verify whether leaving the country early affects the contract.
- ✓Bundling your mobile with an existing SFR fixed-line can give you additional benefits (for example, cheaper data or shared data across lines).
How to buy a SFR prepaid SIM card in France?
If you want maximum flexibility with no contract, SFR's prepaid SIM card (carte prépayée) offers a perfect solution. These are ideal for short-term stays in France (tourism, business trips, temporary accommodation) and can be topped up as needed without long-term commitment or bank account details.
You can find SFR prepaid SIM cards in shops with SFR partnership, Relays and tobacconists.You can also purchase top-ups on the SFR website.
What you’ll find with SFR prepaid:
- →You manage your credit manually (top-up when needed) and there is no automatic renewal unless you set it.
- →Data allowances are substantial in recent prepaid offers: SFR shows options up to 350 GB of 5G data at competitive monthly prices.
- →Because there is no contract, you avoid cancellation fees and you're free to end your plan anytime, great flexibility for expats.
Before you buy a prepaid SIM, check whether your device is unlocked and compatible with French LTE/5G bands. Also check whether the SIM includes data roaming (between France and your home country) if you travel often.
Updated April 2026
SFR Internet & mobile coverage in France
SFR is one of the main Internet and mobile operators in France, covering nearly the entire population through its fibre, ADSL and mobile networks. The company has invested heavily in recent years to modernize its infrastructure and improve both fixed and mobile connectivity.
SFR fiber optics coverage
SFR's fixed Internet coverage extends across the whole country. FTTH offers (Fiber to the Home), deliver the fastest speeds among all the technologies deployed by SFR. Furthermore, nearly 500,000 customers are still connected to fibre coaxial/cable network (FTTLA – Fibre to the Last Amplifier) through THD offers.
- →Fibre optics (FTTH) is now available to more than 85% of French households, with ongoing deployment in smaller towns and rural areas.
- →In locations not yet eligible for fibre, ADSL remains an option, offering stable broadband through the existing telephone network.
- →Some areas are still served by the THD (coaxial fibre) network, but this technology is gradually being replaced by full fibre connections.
As a result, most households in France can now access an SFR box offer, whether through fibre, ADSL, or the newer 5G Home Internet service.
What is coaxial fibre / FTTLA?
Coaxial fibre, also known as FTTLA (Fibre to the Last Amplifier) uses a fibre optic line up to the local network, then a coaxial cable to reach your home. It offers very high speeds (up to 1 Gbit/s), but is being phased out in favor of full fibre (FTTH). SFR is progressively migrating FTTLA customers to FTTH, ensuring faster, more stable and future-proof service.
SFR Mobile coverage
SFR also operates one of France's largest mobile networks, providing coverage for 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G across mainland France and the overseas territories. SFR's service quality is relatively strong, comparable to Orange, Bouygues Telecom and ahead of Free Mobile.
- →4G coverage reaches more than 99% of the population, ensuring stable mobile Internet almost everywhere.
- →5G continues to expand rapidly, already available in most large cities and many medium-sized towns.
With such broad coverage, SFR customers can stay connected both at home and on the go, whether they rely on mobile data or home broadband.
| Type de couverture | Toutes zones | ZDP | Montagne |
|---|---|---|---|
| Réseau 4G | |||
| Taux de couverture surface | 96,74 % | 95,48 % | 90,65 % |
| Taux de couverture population | 99,91 % | 99,60 % | 99,46 % |
| Population couverte | 65 444 254 | — | — |
| Réseau 5G | |||
| Taux de couverture surface | 42,90 % | 28,86 % | 20,86 % |
| Taux de couverture population | 85,00 % | 54,99 % | 69,65 % |
| Population couverte | 55 677 886 | — | — |
Source : Données ARCEP — T4 2025.
🗺️ Check your SFR coverage
What are the MVNO on the SFR France network?
A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) is a mobile provider that offers phone and data services without owning its own network infrastructure. Instead, it rents access from a major operator like SFR, using the same antennas and coverage while managing its own pricing, plans, and customer service.
For expats in France, MVNOs can be an excellent option to get a French SIM card at a lower cost. They usually offer more flexible plans, and some focus on specific audiences, for instance, those who need international calls or no-contract mobile data. The main difference lies in customer support (exclusively online), extra features (like 5G or roaming), and the way the plans are managed.
As SFR is one of the main telecoms operators, several MVNOs rely on its network, including: Coriolis, Prixtel, Syma Mobile and YouPrice.
Updated April 2026
RED by SFR: the low-cost alternative
RED by SFR is SFR's digital low-cost brand, offering both mobile plans and home Internet (RED Box) at highly competitive prices. Entirely managed online, RED keeps things simple: no long-term contracts, no in-store assistance, and straightforward pricing. It's a great option for expats or students who want affordable, flexible services without paperwork or hidden fees.
RED uses the same SFR infrastructure for both mobile and fibre broadband, meaning you benefit from SFR's 4G/5G mobile coverage and high-speed fibre network, but at a lower price point. Subscriptions are handled online, and activation is usually quick, whether for a SIM card or an Internet box.
Key points to remember about RED by SFR:
- →No long-term commitment for both mobile and Internet.
- →Same network quality as SFR (4G/5G + fibre).
- →Fully online management via the RED app or customer space.
- →Cheaper monthly prices thanks to digital-only service.
- →Add-ons available for extra data, international calls, or TV channels.
Here is a comparison between SFR and its low-cost brand, RED by SFR:
|
SFR SFR Box from 27,99€ /mo |
RED by SFR RED Box from 22,99€ /mo |
|
|---|---|---|
| Contract length | 0 or 24 months depending on offer | ✓ No commitment |
| Cancellation fees | ✗ 59€ + compensation | ✗ 59€ |
| Setup fees | ✗ 49€ | 39€ |
| Fibre installation | ✓ Free | ✓ Free |
| Max. download speed | 8 Gbit/s | 1 Gbit/s |
| TV included | ✓ Up to 200 channels | ✗ TV box (+3€/mo) |
| English helpline | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Mobile plan prices | 5,99€ – 39,99€/mo | 1,99€ – 15,99€/mo |
| Subscribe to SFR → | See RED offers → |
Prices verified May 2026. Non-contractual.
SFR Internet + mobile bundles: what discounts are available?
SFR makes it easy to combine your home Internet and mobile plans under one account. By subscribing to both services, customers can save money each month while enjoying simplified billing and shared benefits. These Box + Mobile bundles are popular among households and expats who need both stable home broadband and a reliable mobile connection across France.
The combination offers flexibility: you can choose any SFR Fibre or ADSL Box and pair it with one or more SFR mobile plans (including 5G). Discounts are automatically applied to your bill once both services are active under the same customer account. In some cases, the mobile plan's monthly price can drop by up to €10.
Benefits of combining SFR Box + Mobile
- ✓One single bill for all your SFR services.
- ✓Up to €10/month discount on your mobile plan.
- ✓Additional data or streaming bonuses depending on the plan.
- ✓Easier management through the SFR & Moi mobile app.
- ✓Option to share advantages with family members under the same account.
1 Choose your fibre box
2 Add your mobile plans
Up to plans — /
Non-exhaustive selection of telecom offers, sorted by price.
How to subscribe to a SFR mobile or internet Plan
Signing up for a Mobile Phone Plan With SFR
Subscribing to a mobile plan with SFR is relatively easy, and is well-suited for expats who either already live in France or are arriving soon. You can choose a plan online, by phone, or in a physical SFR store. Before you commit, you'll need to prepare some key documents: proof of identity, a French address, and usually a French bank account for direct debit.
Once subscribed, SFR activates your SIM and you'll be able to start using your mobile line quickly.
Here are important steps and requirements to keep in mind:
- →Choose your mobile plan (SIM-only or with handset) and check if you’re eligible for any promotions.
- →Provide your personal details: name, email, French address, mobile phone number.
- →Set up your payment method (often direct debit from a French bank account) and accept the terms.
- →Activate your SIM (sometimes automatically, sometimes via online account) and confirm service start.
If you're an expat and don't yet have a long-term French address or bank account, look for no-contract (sans engagement) prepaid offers. These allow you to start the plan quickly and cancel when needed without hefty penalties.
Does SFR have an English-speaking Helpline? No, SFR doesn't have an English speaking helpline. The SFR forum contains threads in English, but online help is fairly limited. To access an English-speaking subscription assistance for SFR, call Selectra at +33 9 77 55 72 27 (Mon. to Fri., from 8 am to 9 pm, Sat. from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm and Sun. from 9 am to 6 pm).
📞 SFR customer support
Signing up for a SFR Internet Plan
If you're looking to subscribe to a home Internet plan with SFR, whether fibre, ADSL or 5G Box, the process also begins online, in-store, or by phone. You'll need to test your address eligibility to determine which technology (fibre, THD/coaxial, ADSL or 5G home) is available at your residence.
After confirming eligibility, you select your preferred box offer, schedule installation (if needed), and set up payment. Some offers may include an interim connection (via 4G/5G) while your line is being installed. Then the technician visit (for fibre) or self-installation (for some boxes) completes the process.
Here are the key steps:
- →Check your address for network eligibility (via fibre test, ADSL availability, or 5G Box option).
- →Choose the box offer, equipment and any TV or extra services you want.
- →Provide your contact details, French address, payment method and confirm the contract.
- →Installation phase: technician may visit, or you plug the device yourself; interim connection may be offered until full service is active.
Most expats move into accommodation that already has telecom wiring. When you move, ask your landlord for previous operator details. You can usually use existing sockets and save installation fees.
How to cancel my SFR subscription?To cancel an Internet or mobile phone plan with SFR, you can either call the SFR customer service (at 1023), send a cancellation letter or cancel your plan online in your personal space. Note, you should be able to cancel your mobile phone or Internet plan for free if you are leaving the country.
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