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Mobile Number Portability (MNP) in India: How to Port Your Mobile Number to Airtel, Jio, Vi or BSNL

Updated on June 2026

Mobile Number Portability (MNP) allows mobile subscribers in India to switch from one telecom operator to another without changing their existing mobile number. Whether you want to move from Airtel to Jio, Vi (Vodafone Idea) to BSNL, or any other telecom provider, MNP makes the process simple and convenient.

The facility was introduced to promote competition among telecom operators and give consumers the freedom to choose a network that offers better coverage, faster internet speeds, affordable plans, and improved customer service.

If you are unhappy with your current mobile network due to poor signal quality, call drops, expensive tariffs, or unsatisfactory customer support, Mobile Number Portability can help you switch providers while retaining the same phone number.

What is Mobile Number Portability (MNP)?

Mobile Number Portability is a telecom service that enables subscribers to retain their existing mobile number while changing their service provider. This means you can move from one telecom company to another without informing your contacts about a new number.

MNP is available for both prepaid and postpaid users across India and can be used to switch between major telecom operators such as Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea (Vi), and BSNL.

Benefits of Mobile Number Portability

How to Port Your Mobile Number in India

Step 1: Generate Your Unique Porting Code (UPC)

Send an SMS from the mobile number you wish to port.

Type:

PORT <space> Your Mobile Number

Send the message to:

1900

Example:

PORT 9876543210

You will receive a Unique Porting Code (UPC) via SMS from your existing telecom operator.

Step 2: Visit the New Telecom Operator

Visit the nearest Airtel, Jio, Vi, or BSNL store, or an authorized retailer of the telecom operator you wish to join.

Carry the following documents:

Step 3: Fill the Customer Application Form

Complete the Customer Acquisition Form (CAF) and submit the necessary KYC documents along with your UPC.

Step 4: Receive the New SIM Card

The new telecom operator will issue a replacement SIM card. Keep this SIM safely until the porting process is completed.

Step 5: Wait for Porting Approval

Your request will be processed and verified by the telecom operators involved. You will receive updates through SMS regarding the status of your porting request.

Step 6: Activate the New SIM

Once the porting process is completed, your old SIM card will stop working. Insert the new SIM card provided by your chosen telecom operator and complete any activation steps if required.

How Long Does Mobile Number Porting Take?

In most service areas across India, mobile number porting is usually completed within a few working days. During the transition period, service interruption is generally minimal and often occurs during late-night hours.

You will receive SMS notifications regarding the expected date and time of activation.

Eligibility Criteria for Mobile Number Portability

To successfully port your mobile number, you must satisfy the following conditions:

Important Things to Know Before Porting

For Prepaid Users

Any unused balance, SMS packs, data benefits, or promotional offers from your current operator may not be transferred to the new operator.

For Postpaid Users

Outstanding dues must be cleared before the porting request can be approved.

Temporary Service Interruption

A brief service disruption may occur during the final migration process. This usually happens during non-peak hours and lasts only a short period.

Reasons Why an MNP Request May Be Rejected

Which Telecom Operator Should You Choose?

Before porting your mobile number, compare operators based on:

Major telecom operators currently offering MNP services in India include Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea (Vi), and BSNL.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Mobile Number Portability?

Mobile Number Portability allows users to switch telecom operators while retaining their existing mobile number.

How do I get a UPC code?

Send an SMS in the format PORT <space> Mobile Number to 1900 from the number you wish to port.

Can I port my prepaid number?

Yes. Both prepaid and postpaid mobile numbers can be ported.

Can I port from Airtel to Jio?

Yes. You can port between any telecom operators that support MNP services.

Can I port from Jio to Airtel?

Yes. Mobile Number Portability works in both directions between operators.

Can I port from Vi to BSNL?

Yes. You can switch from Vodafone Idea (Vi) to BSNL while retaining your mobile number.

Will my contacts know that I changed operators?

No. Since your mobile number remains unchanged, your contacts can continue reaching you normally.

Is there any service interruption during porting?

A short interruption may occur during the final activation process, usually during late-night hours.

Do I need to change my SIM card?

Yes. Your new telecom operator will provide a replacement SIM card that becomes active after successful porting.

Can I cancel my porting request?

Cancellation policies may vary. Contact your telecom operator immediately if you wish to withdraw your request after submission.

Conclusion

Mobile Number Portability gives consumers the freedom to choose the telecom operator that best meets their needs without losing their existing mobile number. Whether you want better network coverage, faster internet speeds, lower tariffs, or improved customer service, MNP provides a simple and effective way to switch operators while staying connected on the same number.