The mobile operator "Kyivstar" is set to implement new rules for extending the validity of numbers for prepaid subscribers starting from February 6, 2026.

According to the operator's announcement, these changes aim to retain numbers for active users and simplify mobile service conditions.

The updated rules involve changing the mechanism for number retention, including the introduction of an intermediate suspended state.

The overall validity period for numbers remains at 365 days, but it is now divided into two stages:

• During the first 274 days from the last account recharge or tariff payment, the number will stay active, allowing subscribers to access all services;
• The next stage is a suspended state for another 91 days; during this time, subscribers will receive SMS reminders about recharging their accounts to avoid number deactivation; while in the suspended state, subscribers can recharge their accounts and make calls to service numbers; to restore full functionality, a recharge of at least 30 UAH will be required.

To extend the validity of their numbers, subscribers can choose from several options. The simplest method is to recharge the account with a minimum payment of 30 UAH in a single transaction. Another option is to pay for the main service package for four weeks or a month, or select a daily service package. For users on annual or semi-annual plans, the validity period is automatically extended with each service package renewal.

It is reported that some financial transactions do not affect the validity extension of the number. Services such as "Extra Money" and transferring funds to other subscribers do not count as actions to maintain the number's activity.

To check the current validity period of their number, subscribers can use the USSD request *114# or view the relevant information in the "Profile" section of the "My Kyivstar" mobile application. These tools provide quick access to current data about the number's status and help avoid deactivation.

As mentioned earlier, the independent French company nPerf recently studied the home internet offerings from Vodafone and "Kyivstar" in 2025 and found that Vodafone provides better services to Ukrainians. According to the research, Vodafone has a higher average download speed of 200.48 Mbps compared to Kyivstar's 109.04 Mbps. The upload speed is also higher — 196.4 Mbps versus 127.8 Mbps.