Mobile Number Portability (MNP): Complete Guide India

Want to switch your mobile operator but keep the same number? Mobile Number Portability (MNP) allows you to move from one telecom operator to another — Jio, Airtel, Vi (Vodafone Idea), or BSNL — without changing your phone number. This guide covers the complete process.

What is Mobile Number Portability (MNP)?

MNP is a TRAI-regulated facility that lets you switch your telecom service provider while retaining your existing mobile number. Introduced in India in 2010, MNP is available across all circles and for both prepaid and postpaid users.

There are two types:

• Intra-circle porting — switching operators within the same telecom circle (e.g., Delhi to Delhi)
• Inter-circle porting — switching operators across different circles (e.g., Delhi to Mumbai)

Who is Eligible?

• Any mobile subscriber (prepaid or postpaid) in India
• Your number must be active for at least 90 days with the current operator
• No pending contractual obligations (e.g., device EMI lock-in)
• If you ported recently, you must wait 90 days before porting again

Documents Required

• Valid ID proof — Aadhaar card, PAN card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving Licence
• Address proof — Aadhaar card, Passport, Utility bill, or Bank statement
• Passport-size photograph (1-2 copies)
• Existing SIM — must be active and working

For postpaid users, ensure all outstanding bills are cleared before initiating the port.

Step-by-Step MNP Process

Step 1: Generate UPC (Unique Porting Code)

Send an SMS from the number you want to port:

SMS format: PORT <Your 10-digit Mobile Number> → Send to 1900

Example: PORT 9876543210 → Send to 1900

You will receive a UPC (Unique Porting Code) via SMS. This code is valid for:

• 4 days for intra-circle porting
• 4 days for inter-circle porting

Step 2: Visit New Operator's Store or Apply Online

• Visit the nearest store of your new (desired) operator — Jio, Airtel, Vi, or BSNL
• Some operators allow online porting through their apps (Jio, Airtel)
• Carry your documents and the UPC code

Step 3: Fill CAF (Customer Application Form)

• Fill the Customer Application Form at the new operator's store
• Submit your ID proof, address proof, and photograph
• Provide the UPC code received via SMS
• Choose your new plan (prepaid or postpaid)

Step 4: Verification & Activation

• The new operator submits your porting request
• Your current operator has 2 working days to process (or raise objection)
• You will receive an SMS confirming the porting schedule
• Porting happens between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM to minimize disruption
• Total process: 3-5 working days (intra-circle) or up to 5 working days (inter-circle)

Step 5: Insert New SIM

• Once porting is complete, insert the new SIM card
• Your old SIM will stop working automatically
• The new SIM activates with your same mobile number

Porting Process by Operator

Fees

Common Rejection Reasons

Your porting request may be rejected if:

1. Number not active for 90 days — you need minimum 90 days with current operator
2. Outstanding dues — postpaid bills not cleared
3. UPC expired — the code is valid for only 4 days
4. Contractual obligation — device lock-in or minimum commitment period active
5. Sub-judice — legal case pending related to the number
6. Incorrect documents — mismatch in name, address, or ID proof
7. Request already pending — another porting request is in process

If rejected, you will receive an SMS with the reason. You can re-apply after fixing the issue.

Important Tips

1. Back up your contacts and any data tied to your old operator's services before porting
2. Clear all dues on postpaid connections to avoid rejection
3. Update your number on banking apps, UPI, and Aadhaar if linked — porting does not affect these
4. Port during low-usage hours — the switch happens at night, so plan accordingly
5. Check network coverage of the new operator in your area before porting

Processing Time

• Intra-circle porting: 3-5 working days
• Inter-circle porting: Up to 5 working days
• Actual porting activation: Between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM

FAQs

Can I port my number from prepaid to postpaid (or vice versa) while switching operators?

Yes. During the porting process, you can choose a different plan type with the new operator.

Will I lose my balance or validity when I port?

Yes. Any remaining balance, validity, or active packs with your old operator will be forfeited. Use them before porting.

Can I port a corporate/enterprise number?

Corporate numbers can be ported only with authorization from the company. You need a letter from the authorized signatory.

Is there any downtime during porting?

Yes, there is a brief downtime (usually 1-2 hours) during the night when the switch happens. You may not be able to make calls or use data during this window.

Can I cancel a porting request after submitting?

Yes. You can cancel by contacting your current operator before the port is executed. Once the new SIM is activated, cancellation is not possible.

How many times can I port my number?

There is no limit, but you must wait 90 days between each porting request.

Will porting affect my WhatsApp, UPI, or bank OTPs?

No. Your number remains the same, so all services linked to it continue to work normally after porting.

Disclaimer: CitizenNest is an independent informational platform and is not affiliated with TRAI, DoT, or any telecom operator. Information is based on official TRAI guidelines. Verify details with your operator before porting.