On the 3rd of July, telecom companies around India launched the National Mobile Number Portability (NMNP). This means that you can now move from one city to another and still retain your mobile number. While many may be aware of this already, we decided to provide a step-by-step guide for those who may not know the proper procedure to port their number and a few things to keep in mind before doing so.
Step 1 : Generate An Eight-Digit Unique Porting Code
The first thing you have to do is generate an eight-digit Unique Porting Code by sending “PORT <10-digit mobile number>” to 1900. You will then receive an SMS of the UPC code and the UPC expiration date.
Step 2 : Get The Required Documents
Before you head to your mobile operating store, you’ll need to carry along a few documents. You will need an ID proof, address proof, a passport size photograph, and a copy of your last paid bill (in case of post-paid customers). Airtel customers can carry forward the existing talk-time or outstanding/pending bills to the new telecom service.
Step 3 : Visit The New Mobile Operator Store
Once you have your UPC code and required documents ready, you can visit the mobile operator store you wish to switch to and fill out the number porting form. You will also buy a new sim card. The whole porting process costs Rs. 19.
STEP 4 : Choose Your Plan
Both pre-paid and post-paid customers will have the option to either retain their original plan or to choose a different one based on their needs. Every operator has its own range of plans and you can pick yours at the store.
Step 5 : Processing Time
Some operators like Airtel promise that all NMNP requests will be processed within 24 hours. You will receive an SMS regarding the deactivation of your old sim card. Once deactivated, you can insert your new sim. Generally, most operators complete the porting process within 7 days.
Note : Some Important Points
- Post-paid customers must make sure any unpaid bills are paid before porting as this can hold up the porting process
- Make sure your active connection is at least 90 days old
- Some operators like Airtel and Idea require you to call 59059 for tele-verification once the new sim is activated.
