Mobile Number Portability

Mobile number portability questions answered. Please note that some details may change anytime at the discretion of service providers.

S. No	Question	Details
1	What is MNP?	What is Mobile Number Portability (MNP)? * With MNP, you can change the service operator without changing your current mobile number. * This will trigger a healthy competition among service providers which would benefit the consumers. * Customers can port between prepay and post pay options. * Shifting is allowed only for a mobile number, not for a landline number.
2	Why choose MNP?	Why should I go for MNP? * Go for MNP if you are not happy with the services of your current provider or for getting cheaper/better plans.
3	Steps to switch?	How can I switch to a new service provider? What are the steps? Here are the detailed steps to avail the MNP service: 1. SMS: Send SMS 'PORT <10 digit mobile number>' to 1900 from the mobile number you want to switch. 2. Code: You will immediately get a UPC (Unique Porting Code) by SMS from your current service provider. 3. New Provider/SIM: Go to nearest new service provider's centre, submit the following and get a new SIM: - An 'application form' quoting the UPC code to desired new service provider. - Valid address and identity proof. - One passport size photo may be required by some providers. 4. Fee: You will have to pay a maximum of Rs. 19 to the new operator as Porting charges. (Note: New operator may waive off the MNP fee or reduce it). 5. By When: The entire process will take maximum 7 days as per timelines set by the regulatory authority. 6. Switch: You will get a message on your mobile number on the exact time & date of switching. Replace your current SIM card with the new one from your new service provider at that time & you are all set.
4	Billing / Talktime impact?	What is the impact on billing/talktime? * Post-paid users: You need to clear all dues before applying for MNP. * Prepaid users: You will lose any remaining talk time after switching.
5	Any down time?	Will the service be down during the MNP process? * Your number will be functional throughout this process. * The switchover will happen between 10:00 PM and 05:00 AM to ensure your connectivity is not disrupted. * There may be a 2 hour duration between 10:00 PM to 05:00 AM when your services may be disrupted. * The exact time of disruption would be communicated to you in advance.
6	Old account?	Do I need to cancel my old account with my current service provider? * No! The new service provider will take care of that.
7	CDMA to GSM?	I have a CDMA phone, can I switch to a GSM service operator? * Yes, but you will need a GSM compatible handset.
8	SIM card replaced?	Do I need to replace the SIM card? * Yes. Replace your current SIM card with the new one from your new service provider as explained above.
9	Shift new number?	I just got a new connection? Can I go for MNP now? * A user can switch after 90 days of a new connection being activated.
10	Cancel MNP?	I initiated the MNP request but can I cancel it now? * After initiating the MNP request, it can be cancelled within 24 hours.
11	Availability?	Where is the MNP service available in India? * MNP is being gradually rolled out in various states of India. * Cross check with your service provider about availability in your state.