Virgin Media is shaking things up for new customers again. From 26 June 2025, the UK broadband giant has officially returned to 24-month minimum contracts for broadband and broadband + TV deals. That’s a change from the 18-month contracts they’d been offering more recently, and it puts Virgin Media back in line with other major providers like BT, Sky, EE, Plusnet, and Vodafone.
Why the switch back?
Virgin Media says the move is all about “longer-term certainty and greater value” for customers. In other words, you lock in your deal for longer, and the provider can plan ahead knowing who’s staying on board.
It’s a familiar story for the UK broadband market — most big ISPs already operate 24-month contracts, and Virgin Media is simply following suit. Plus, with Ofcom’s One Touch Switch system making it easier to change providers, longer contracts help keep customers around a little longer.
What it means for new customers
- Stable pricing (mostly): Your deal is locked in for two years, so no unexpected monthly changes — at least at the start.
- Watch out for annual rises: Price increases are still likely in April 2026 and April 2027, so don’t be caught off guard.
- Longer commitment: Instead of 18 months, you’re now tied in for 24 — so switching early could be trickier.
If you’re after peace of mind and a stable broadband connection, this could be a solid choice. But if you’re budget-conscious or prefer flexibility, take a careful look at your options and check what other ISPs are offering in your area before committing.