The CRTC has authorized full mobile virtual network operators to transfer wireless telephone numbers directly, ending their mandatory reliance on an underlying carrier for that function.
In Telecom Decision CRTC 2026-271, issued October 15, 2026, the commission approved ISP Telecom Inc.’s application and extended the same access to other registered full operators that meet Canada’s wireless number-portability requirements.
It directed the Canadian LNP Consortium Inc. to make the necessary changes to governance, agreements and cost recovery by February 1, 2027.
Rules had not caught up with network capabilities
Number portability lets customers retain their telephone numbers when changing providers. The 2005 wireless framework required virtual operators and resellers to arrange transfers through their underlying carriers.
Full mobile virtual network operators are different from providers that simply resell a carrier’s service. They supply the components of a mobile network except its radio access network, using another carrier’s spectrum and radio infrastructure to reach customers.
ISP Telecom sought direct access to the Number Portability Administration Center’s database after the consortium refused its request under the existing rules. It argued that its own core network contained the switching equipment needed for number transfers and that its radio network provider could not transfer numbers on its behalf because it lacked access to that switch.
The commission agreed that full operators possess the necessary technical capability. Transfers occur in the core network rather than the radio access network. The older rules predated recognition of full virtual operators as a distinct category and could require an impractical arrangement, the commission found.
Access does not confer spectrum or new-number rights
The Canadian Telecommunications Association opposed the change, arguing that it blurred the distinction between facilities-based providers and resellers and could deplete numbering resources. TELUS supported updating the framework, subject to equivalent obligations, but proposed a separate proceeding to clarify the requirements.
The commission found that direct porting would not give full operators spectrum rights, a radio network or general access to new telephone numbers. They would still need arrangements with radio network carriers to offer service.
It also distinguished transferring an existing number from allocating a new one. ISP Telecom already had access to numbering resources in its separate capacity as a competitive local exchange carrier. The requested change would not accelerate number depletion, the commission concluded.
Existing obligations still apply
Full operators must meet the applicable membership, cost-recovery, service-interval and technical requirements. The commission said the established rules were sufficiently clear to extend access without another proceeding.
The decision gives operators a choice: they may transfer numbers directly or continue to rely on their underlying carrier. It does not extend the authorization to every wireless reseller.
The commission considered the change capable of improving competition, including in rural, remote and Indigenous communities where ISP Telecom said it planned to operate. The decision does not verify that those planned services have launched or that the consortium has completed the required changes.
