Are you considering switching to an Airtel prepaid connection but want to keep your existing mobile number? The good news is that with Mobile Number Portability (MNP), you can easily transfer your current number to Airtel while enjoying their reliable network coverage and attractive prepaid plans, including Airtel 5G plans.
Porting your number to a new prepaid connection may seem daunting, but the process is quite straightforward if you follow the right steps. TRAI regulations ensure that you can switch operators without losing your number, as long as you meet certain eligibility criteria.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of porting your existing number to an Airtel prepaid connection, including eligibility requirements, generating a Unique Porting Code (UPC), choosing an Airtel plan, and activating your new SIM.
Eligibility for Porting
Before initiating the porting process, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). According to TRAI regulations, you must have been with your current network provider for at least 90 days before you can request to port your number to another operator. This rule is in place to prevent misuse of the MNP facility and ensure fair competition among telecom providers.
Additionally, make sure that you have cleared any outstanding dues or bills with your current operator. Having pending payments can lead to delays or rejection of your porting request. It’s also a good idea to check if your current operator has any specific terms and conditions related to porting out, such as early termination fees or minimum recharge requirements.
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, the next step is to generate a Unique Porting Code (UPC) from your current operator. The UPC is an essential requirement for the porting process and serves as authorisation for your request to switch to a new prepaid connection. Keep in mind that the UPC is valid for only 15 days from the date of generation, so make sure to initiate the porting process within this timeframe.
By ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria and have all the necessary documents and information ready, you can make the porting process smoother and avoid any potential hurdles or delays in switching to your desired Airtel prepaid connection.
Generating Unique Porting Code (UPC)
To kick-start the porting process, you need to obtain a Unique Porting Code (UPC) from your current network provider. The UPC is an 8-digit code that serves as verification and authorisation of your request to port your existing number to a new operator. Here’s how you can generate the UPC:
- Send an SMS with the word “PORT” followed by a space and your 10-digit mobile number to 1900. For example, if your mobile number is 1234567890, you would send: “PORT 1234567890”.
- You will receive an SMS from 1901 containing your 8-digit UPC, which will be valid for 15 days.
It’s important to note that the UPC is time-sensitive, and you must complete the porting process within the validity period. If the UPC expires, you will need to generate a new one by repeating the SMS process.
Once you have the UPC, you can proceed to choose your desired Airtel 5G plan or any other prepaid plan that suits your needs. Airtel offers a wide range of prepaid plans with varying data allowances, validity periods, and additional benefits like free SMS and access to OTT platforms.
Keep the UPC handy as you will need to provide it when submitting your porting request either online or at an Airtel store. The UPC acts as a crucial piece of information that authorises Airtel to initiate the porting process on your behalf.
Choosing an Airtel Prepaid Plan
Before submitting your porting request, it’s essential to select an Airtel prepaid plan that best suits your usage requirements and budget. Airtel offers a diverse range of prepaid plans, including Airtel 5G plans, which you can explore on their official website or through the Airtel Thanks app.
If you’re looking for an affordable monthly plan with 5G data access, Airtel’s Rs 379 plan is a great option. It comes with 30 days of validity and includes unlimited calls, 100 SMS per day, and 3GB of 5G data. For users who require more data and a longer validity, the Rs 649 plan offers unlimited 5G data for two months along with 2GB of 4G data per day and a validity of 56 days.
Airtel also provides a range of higher-value plans, such as the Rs 979 plan, which offers 84 days of validity with 2GB of 4G data per day and unlimited 5G benefits. Additionally, if you need extra 5G data, Airtel has introduced unlimited 5G data add-on packs priced at Rs 51, Rs 101, and Rs 151. These add-on packs can be used in conjunction with your existing prepaid plan to enjoy uninterrupted high-speed 5G internet.
When selecting your Airtel prepaid plan, consider factors such as your average monthly data consumption, call and SMS requirements, and the validity period that aligns with your usage patterns. Airtel’s 5G plans are designed to cater to a wide spectrum of user needs, ensuring that you can find a suitable plan for your new prepaid connection.
Applying for Porting and Activating Your SIM
Once you have generated your UPC and chosen your desired Airtel prepaid plan, you can proceed to apply for porting either online through Airtel’s website or by visiting an Airtel store. The online process is convenient and allows you to complete the porting request from the comfort of your home.
To apply online, visit the Airtel website and fill out the required form with your details, including your name, current mobile number, and UPC. You may also need to provide proof of identification and address, such as your Aadhaar card or passport. After submitting your porting request, you will receive a new Airtel SIM card.
To activate your new SIM, follow these steps:
- Send an SMS in the format “SIM<20-digit new SIM card number>” to 121 from your current number.
- You will receive a confirmation SMS. Reply with ‘1’ to confirm the activation.
Your number will be ported to the Airtel network within 48 hours of submitting your request. During this period, you may experience a brief downtime of a few hours, usually after midnight, when the switch is being finalized. It’s recommended to keep your old SIM card until you receive confirmation that the porting process is complete.
After successful porting, you may need to perform a first recharge on your new Airtel SIM to activate your chosen prepaid plan and enjoy uninterrupted services on India’s leading telecom network.
Porting your existing mobile number to an Airtel prepaid connection is a straightforward process that can be completed online or by visiting an Airtel store. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can seamlessly switch to Airtel while retaining your current number.
Remember to check your eligibility, generate a UPC, and select a suitable Airtel prepaid plan based on your usage needs. Airtel 5G plans offer an excellent combination of high-speed data, unlimited calling, and extended validity periods, making them an attractive option for users seeking a reliable and feature-rich new prepaid connection.
With Airtel’s extensive network coverage, superior voice clarity, and fast data speeds, you can enjoy a seamless mobile experience without the hassle of changing your number. Embrace the freedom of MNP and unlock the benefits of being an Airtel prepaid customer today!