SIM Porting Rules 2026: Are you frustrated with poor mobile network coverage, slow internet speeds, frequent call drops or expensive recharge plans? You do not necessarily have to continue using the same telecom operator. India's Mobile Number Portability (MNP) facility allows mobile subscribers to switch service providers while keeping their existing 10-digit mobile number.

Whether you want to move from Jio to Airtel, Airtel to BSNL, Vi to Jio or another available network, the porting process follows a standard procedure.

You need to generate a Unique Porting Code (UPC), submit your request to the new operator and complete the required identity verification.

However, porting is not instantaneous. The time required depends on the telecom service area and applicable regulatory conditions.

Here is a detailed guide explaining how to port your SIM card, how long the process takes, what it costs and how to cancel a request.

What Is Mobile Number Portability?

Mobile Number Portability is a facility that enables subscribers to change their telecom service provider without changing their mobile number.

For example, if you currently use an Airtel SIM but want to switch to Jio, you can request a transfer while retaining your existing number.

This can be particularly useful for people who have linked their mobile numbers to bank accounts, Aadhaar-related services, workplace contacts and other important accounts.

Instead of informing everyone about a new number, subscribers can continue using the same contact number after porting is completed.

The facility is regulated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

How to Port Your SIM Card in 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

The standard mobile number porting procedure involves a few straightforward steps.

Step 1: Send an SMS to 1900

Open the messaging application on the mobile phone containing the number you want to port.

Type the following message:

PORT 9876543210

Replace the example number with your own 10-digit mobile number.

Send the message to 1900 from the number you want to transfer.

Make sure the message follows the correct format, with a space between PORT and the mobile number.

Step 2: Receive Your Unique Porting Code

If your number meets the applicable eligibility conditions, you will receive a Unique Porting Code through an SMS from 1901.

This code is required to submit your porting application to the new telecom operator.

Keep the UPC secure and share it only through the authorized porting process.

The code has a limited validity period, so it is important to complete the next steps before it expires.

Step 3: Select Your New Telecom Operator

Choose the telecom company you want to join.

Before deciding, compare network coverage, mobile internet performance, available recharge plans and customer service.

A provider offering lower recharge prices may not necessarily deliver better connectivity in your particular area.

Checking network availability at your home, workplace and other frequently visited locations can help you make a more informed choice.

Step 4: Visit an Authorized Store and Complete KYC

Visit an authorized outlet of your chosen telecom operator or use another onboarding channel officially supported by that provider.

Provide your UPC and complete the required customer verification process.

The operator may ask you to submit the applicable porting request and customer acquisition details.

Identity verification must be completed according to the current KYC requirements.

Once the request is accepted, the new operator will initiate the transfer process.

Step 5: Receive Updates About Your Porting Request

After submitting the application, you should receive messages containing information about your porting request.

These updates may include the expected date and time of the network transfer.

Keep your existing SIM active while waiting for the process to finish.

Avoid removing or discarding the old SIM immediately after submitting your application.

Step 6: Wait for the Scheduled Porting Time

The porting process takes a specified number of working days, depending on whether the transfer is within the same telecom service area or between different areas.

During the scheduled transfer, there may be a brief interruption in mobile services.

Subscribers should follow the activation instructions provided by their new operator.

Step 7: Activate Your New SIM Card

When the old SIM stops connecting to the previous network at the scheduled porting time, insert or activate the new operator's SIM according to the instructions provided.

Restart your phone if required.

After activation, check whether voice calls, SMS and mobile data services are functioning properly.

Your mobile number remains unchanged, but your telecom service provider will be different.

How Many Days Does SIM Porting Take?

Under TRAI's published MNP framework, the usual porting timelines are:

These are standard regulatory timelines, not guarantees of immediate activation.

Certain requests may require additional processing, and applicable eligibility conditions must be satisfied.

The new operator will communicate the expected porting schedule.

What Is the SIM Porting Fee in India?

According to TRAI's published mobile number portability framework, the recipient operator may charge a maximum porting fee of ₹6.46 per request, if it chooses to levy the fee.

This amount is separate from any applicable recharge plan or other service charges.

Some telecom operators may offer promotional benefits or waive the porting fee.

Before submitting the request, confirm the amount payable and the conditions of the new plan.

Can You Cancel a Mobile Number Porting Request?

Yes. Under the standard MNP procedure, subscribers can withdraw their porting request within 24 hours of submitting it.

To request cancellation, send an SMS in the following format:

CANCEL 9876543210

Replace the example number with the mobile number for which the porting request was submitted.

Send the message to 1900.

The cancellation request must be made within the permitted period.

If a porting charge has already been paid, it may not be refundable under the applicable rules.

Important Eligibility Rules Before Porting Your Number

Before requesting a transfer, subscribers should understand the main eligibility conditions.

Generally, a mobile connection must have been active with the current operator for at least 90 days before porting.

There are also restrictions following certain SIM replacement or swap activities. Under the applicable rules, a UPC cannot be generated within seven days of a SIM swap or replacement.

Postpaid subscribers should clear outstanding dues according to the applicable requirements.

Other conditions may apply in cases involving ownership changes, contractual obligations or pending legal restrictions.

If the UPC request is rejected, the subscriber should review the reason communicated and resolve the issue before trying again.

Will Your Existing Recharge Balance Transfer to the New Operator?

Subscribers should not assume that unused prepaid balance or existing recharge benefits will move to the new operator.

In general, unused prepaid balance does not transfer through the mobile number portability process.

Therefore, it may be sensible to review the remaining validity and benefits of your current plan before requesting porting.

You should also check the recharge or activation requirements of your new operator.

Things to Check Before Switching Networks

Choosing a new telecom operator should involve more than comparing monthly recharge prices.

Consider the quality of voice calls, availability of 4G or 5G coverage, data speeds and reliability of service in your area.

Also examine the terms of unlimited calling plans, daily data limits, SMS allowances and recharge validity.

If you frequently travel, compare network coverage along your usual routes.

These checks can reduce the possibility of switching providers only to experience similar connectivity problems.

Final Takeaway

Mobile Number Portability gives subscribers the freedom to change telecom operators without losing their existing mobile numbers.

The process starts by sending PORT followed by your mobile number to 1900, receiving a UPC and completing the application with the new operator.

Although the steps are simple, the transfer normally requires several working days rather than taking effect immediately.

Before porting your SIM, compare available networks, check your eligibility, understand the applicable charges and follow the official activation instructions.

Disclaimer: Porting timelines, eligibility conditions and fees are based on TRAI's published MNP framework and may be subject to subsequent regulatory amendments. Subscribers should confirm current requirements with TRAI or their chosen telecom operator before applying.