The Indian telecom industry is home to several major players, with Jio, V (Vodafone Idea), BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) and Airtel leading the way in terms of users. However, sometimes subscribers want to switch from one telecom operator to another for various reasons.
If you are planning to port your mobile number from Jio, Vi or BSNL to Airtel, then you have to follow a certain process. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on porting your phone number to Airtel. Through online and offline modes.
Port your mobile number to Airtel Online
Step 1: Start a port request and generate a UPC
To start the porting process, send an SMS “Please port your mobile number” to 1900. This will generate a unique portable code (UPC) that you will receive via SMS.
Step 2: Get the UPC and write it down.
When you send an SMS, you will receive a UPC via SMS. Be sure to write down this code as you will need it in the next step.
Step 3: Select your Airtel recharge plan and fill the form
Visit the Airtel website or app and select the recharge plan you want. You will also need to fill out the form with your personal information such as address, email address and phone number.
Step 4: Submit the form
After filling out the form, click the “Submit” button to proceed with your transfer request.
Step 5: Wait for the call from Airtel executives
After submitting your port request, you will receive a call from an Airtel manager to confirm delivery of the new Airtel SIM card.
Step 6: Provide ID and proof of address
When an Airtel manager hands over your SIM card, make sure you have a valid address and identification proof (e.g. Aadhaar card, driving license or utility bill) and the UPC code you received earlier.
Step 7: Activate your Airtel number
After successful verification of documents and UPC, your existing number will be activated on Airtel network within 48 hours.
Port your mobile number to Airtel Offline
Step 1: Visit your nearest Airtel store.
If you prefer the traditional offline method, find your nearest Airtel branch.
Step 2: Bring important documents with you.
Make sure you have valid proof of identity and address such as Aadhaar card, driving license or utility bill.
Step 3: Create a UPC code.
Generate a Unique Porting Code (UPC) by texting ‘Transfer Your Phone Number’ to 1900 from Airtel Store.
Step 4: Get your UPC code.
After sending the SMS, you will receive a UPC code via SMS to your mobile number.
Step 5: Enter your Airtel store details.
Visit an Airtel store and enter your secondary mobile number, address proof, UPC code and the OTP received at that time.
Step 6: Complete the documentation procedures
Complete the necessary document formalities as directed by the Airtel Business Manager.
Step 7: Pay the initial top-up
After completing the formalities, you have to pay for the first recharge plan required for your Airtel port.
Step 8: Implementation within 48 hours
The SIM card will be successfully transferred to Airtel within 48 hours after completing all the steps at the Airtel store.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.