If your Jio network is weak in your area, or you have found an Airtel or Vi recharge plan that suits you better, you may be thinking about changing your operator. But what about the number linked to your bank account, UPI apps, WhatsApp and other services? You do not have to change it. Mobile Number Portability (MNP) lets you move to another operator while keeping your existing number.
To start the process, you need to send an MNP SMS (also called mobile number portability SMS) and get a Unique Porting Code (UPC). You then share this code with your new operator before it expires. This guide explains who can port a number, how to send the SMS and what to do next, whether you are moving to Jio, Airtel, Vi, BSNL or MTNL.
What Is an MNP SMS?
MNP stands for Mobile Number Portability. It lets you move your mobile number from one operator to another while keeping the same number.
An MNP SMS, also called a port message or porting SMS, is the message you send to 1900 to request a UPC. You need this code to submit your porting request to the new operator.
The Three Messages You May See During Porting
| Message | Who sends it? | What does it contain? |
| Porting request SMS | You send it to 1900 | PORT <10-digit mobile number> |
| UPC reply SMS | Your current operator sends it | Your 8-digit UPC and its expiry date |
| Porting update SMS | The MNP service provider or new operator sends it | Confirmation, porting schedule or SIM activation update |
The first message is your request. The reply with the UPC is the code you need to continue the process.
Who Can Port a Mobile Number?
Your number must meet TRAI’s eligibility conditions before you can get a UPC. If a condition is not met, your request may be rejected, and you should receive an SMS explaining the reason. a
1. Your Number Must Be Active on the Current Network for More Than 90 Days
You can request a UPC only after your number has been active on your current operator’s network for more than 90 days.
2. Clear Your Pending Postpaid Bills
If you use a postpaid connection, pay all outstanding bills issued by your current operator before requesting a UPC.
3. Complete Any Contractual Exit Requirements
If your agreement with the current operator has an exit clause or other pending contractual requirement, complete it before porting.
4. Wait Seven Days After a SIM Swap or Replacement
If you recently replaced or swapped your SIM, wait until seven days have passed before requesting a UPC. This rule has been in force since 1 July 2024.
5. Check for Other Restrictions
You may not be able to port your number if a change of ownership is being processed, the number is involved in a court case, or a court has stopped it from being ported.
MNP SMS Number and Message Format
The SMS number for requesting a UPC is 1900. Send the message from the mobile number you want to port.
Use this format:
PORT <space> <10-digit mobile number>
For example, if your number is 98XXXXXX10, send:
PORT 98XXXXXX10
The word PORT is not case-sensitive. You can type it in upper or lower case.
What Is a UPC?
UPC stands for Unique Porting Code. It is an 8-digit code sent to your mobile number after you request it. TRAI says the reply SMS comes from 1901. The message also tells you when the code expires.
How Long Is a UPC Valid?
| Telecom service area | UPC validity |
| Most service areas | 4 days |
| Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and the North East | 30 days |
The day the UPC is generated is not counted towards its validity. If the code expires before you submit your request, send the porting SMS again to get a new one.
How to Port Your Number: Step by Step
The basic process is similar whichever operator you choose.
Step 1: Check That You Meet the Eligibility Rules
Make sure your number has been active on the current network for more than 90 days. Postpaid users should clear pending bills. If you recently changed your SIM, wait seven days before requesting a UPC.
Step 2: Send the MNP SMS
From the number you want to port, send PORT <10-digit mobile number> to 1900.
Step 3: Save Your UPC
Your current operator will send your UPC by SMS. Save the 8-digit code and check its expiry date.
Step 4: Apply With the New Operator
Visit the new operator’s store or use its website or app if online porting is available. Share your UPC, complete the required forms and finish KYC using the documents requested by the operator.
You may be asked for proof of identity and address, such as an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport or Driving Licence. Some operators also offer eKYC.
Step 5: Wait for the Porting Schedule
You will receive an SMS with the date and time for the switch. Keep your old SIM in your phone until the scheduled time.
Step 6: Insert the New SIM
When your old SIM stops working, insert the new SIM and follow the activation instructions. Service may be unavailable for up to four hours during the scheduled switch, which usually takes place at night.
Can You Cancel a Porting Request?
You can withdraw your request within 24 hours of submitting it. Send CANCEL <10-digit mobile number> to 1900. Cancelling the request also cancels the UPC.
How to Port to Jio, Airtel, Vi, BSNL or MTNL
The SMS to get a UPC is the same for all operators. The application process can differ depending on which operator you are joining.
| New operator | How to apply after getting your UPC |
| Jio | Apply online, visit a Jio Store or retailer, or request SIM home delivery. Share your UPC and complete KYC. |
| Airtel | Order a SIM through Airtel’s website or visit an Airtel store. Check Airtel’s official channels for current application and status-tracking options. |
| Vi (Vodafone Idea) | Apply through the Vi website or app, or visit a Vi store. Share your UPC and complete KYC. |
| BSNL | Visit a BSNL Customer Service Centre or authorised retailer with your UPC and the documents requested for KYC. |
| MTNL | Send the same SMS to 1900 to request your UPC. Contact MTNL customer care to confirm how to complete the application for your number. |
If you are leaving any of these operators, send the same porting SMS to 1900 from the number you want to move. Your current operator will issue a UPC if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Porting Timelines and Charges
1. How Long Does Porting Take?
The time depends on whether you are moving to an operator in the same telecom service area or a different one.
| Porting situation | Usual time |
| Within the same service area | 3 working days |
| From one service area to another | 5 working days |
| Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and the North East | Up to 15 working days |
| Corporate mobile number | 5 working days |
You will receive an SMS with the porting schedule. The switch usually takes place at night, and service may be unavailable for up to four hours.
2. Is Porting Free?
TRAI says the new operator may charge ₹6.46 per porting request. Some operators may waive the charge or offer SIM delivery at no cost, so check the current terms with the operator before applying.
3. What Should Postpaid Users Do Before Porting?
Pay any outstanding bills issued by your current operator. If you have a refundable deposit with your current operator, ask how it will be returned after the number is ported.
Why Is the Port SMS Not Sending or the UPC Not Arriving?
If you do not receive a UPC, check your message format and the eligibility rules first.
| Problem | Possible reason | What you can do |
| No UPC received | Your number has not been active on the current network for more than 90 days | Wait until you meet the 90-day requirement, then try again |
| No UPC after changing your SIM | You requested the code within seven days of a SIM swap or replacement | Wait until seven days have passed, then resend the message |
| UPC refused on a postpaid number | You have unpaid bills | Clear the outstanding dues and try again |
| SMS could not be sent | The format is incorrect, the number is mistyped, or the SMS was sent to the wrong number | Send PORT <10-digit mobile number> to 1900 |
| SMS sent from another phone | The request must come from the number you want to port | Send the message from that number |
| New operator rejects the UPC | The code may have expired or been entered incorrectly | Request a fresh UPC and share it exactly as received |
TRAI says an SMS should explain why a UPC request was rejected. If the issue continues, contact your current operator’s customer care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an MNP SMS?
It is the SMS you send to 1900 in the format PORT <10-digit mobile number> to request a UPC and start porting your number.
What Is an MNP Message?
“MNP message” is another name for the porting SMS. It may also refer to the UPC reply or a status update sent during the porting process.
What Does MNP Mean in an SMS?
MNP means Mobile Number Portability. It refers to the process of moving your number to another operator while keeping the same number.
What Is the MNP SMS Number?
Send the porting SMS to 1900.
What Is the Port Message Format?
Type PORT, add a space, and then enter your 10-digit mobile number. For example: PORT 98XXXXXX10.
How Many Days Is the UPC Valid?
It is valid for four days in most service areas and 30 days in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and the North East. The day it is generated is not counted.
Can I Send the Port SMS From Another Number?
No. Send it from the number you want to port.
Can I Port My Number After a SIM Swap?
Yes. You can request a UPC after seven days have passed from the SIM swap or replacement.
Will My Number Stop Working During Porting?
Your old SIM should continue working until the scheduled switch. Service may be unavailable for up to four hours during the switch, which usually takes place at night.
How Long Does Porting Take?
It usually takes three working days within the same service area and five working days between service areas. In Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and the North East, it can take up to 15 working days.
Is Porting Free?
TRAI allows the new operator to charge ₹6.46 per request. Some operators may waive the fee, so check before applying.
Can I Cancel My Porting Request?
Yes. You can withdraw it within 24 hours by sending CANCEL <10-digit mobile number> to 1900.
