People usually don’t switch mobile networks in India unless something is clearly off. Calls start dropping at home, data crawls in places where it shouldn’t, or customer support turns into an endless loop of scripted replies.
If you’re unhappy with Jio’s network performance, data speeds, or support and are considering a move to Airtel, you don’t have to change your mobile number to do it. Mobile Number Portability (MNP) makes the switch possible.
The not-so-great part? The process still fails more often than it should—and almost always for the same, avoidable reasons.
This guide explains the complete Jio-to-Airtel porting process, including eligibility requirements, documents needed, how to generate a Unique Porting Code (UPC), online and offline porting steps, timelines, charges, and frequently asked questions.
Table of Contents
What Is Mobile Number Portability (MNP)?
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) allows you to switch from one telecom operator—like Jio—to another, such as Airtel, without changing your mobile number. The number remains the same; only the network and services behind it change.
In India, MNP is regulated by TRAI and follows a standardised workflow between operators and central MNP service providers. That’s why the process is predictable—and why most failures are caused by user-side issues rather than system problems.
Eligibility: Can You Port from Jio to Airtel?
Before starting the process, make sure you meet these conditions:
- Your Jio number must be active, not suspended or disconnected
- The number should be at least 90 days old from activation or your last port
- There should be no outstanding dues if you’re a Jio postpaid user
- Your KYC details (name, address, ID proof) must be valid and up to date
- The number shouldn’t be linked to any legal or contractual dispute
If any of these conditions aren’t met, the porting request can be rejected.
Documents Required for Jio to Airtel Porting
Keep the following ready when submitting your request online or at an Airtel Store:
- Unique Porting Code (UPC) received via SMS
- Aadhaar card (preferred) or another valid government ID (Passport, Voter ID, Driving Licence)
- Passport-size photograph (still requested at some physical stores)
- For postpaid users: proof that all Jio dues are cleared, usually the latest paid bill
These details are used to complete e-KYC and activate your Airtel SIM with the same number.
How to Generate Jio to Airtel Porting Code (UPC)
To start the MNP process, you must generate a Unique Porting Code (UPC) from your existing Jio SIM.
SMS format to get Jio porting code
- Open the Messages app on your phone with the Jio SIM.
- Create a new SMS to 1900 (common MNP short code in India).
- In the message box, type:
PORT <your 10‑digit mobile number>
Example: PORT 98XXXXXXXX
– Use PORT in capital letters and keep exactly one space before your number. - Send the SMS from the Jio number you want to port to Airtel.
- Within a few minutes, you’ll receive an SMS containing:
- Your Unique Porting Code (UPC)
- The expiry date of the UPC
UPC validity and expiry rules
As per TRAI’s MNP rules, the UPC is generally valid for 4 days in most telecom circles. In Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and North East circles, the UPC remains valid for 30 days.
If your UPC expires before you submit your port request to Airtel, you must generate a new UPC by repeating the same SMS process.
Choose the Right Airtel Plan (Prepaid vs Postpaid)
Once you have your UPC, decide whether you want to move your Jio number to an Airtel prepaid or postpaid plan.
When to choose Airtel prepaid
Go for Airtel prepaid if you:
- Prefer full control over recharges and validity.
- Want simple unlimited calling and daily data packs.
- Don’t want a monthly bill cycle and credit limit.
Airtel offers port‑in prepaid plans that include unlimited calls, daily data (1 GB/1.5 GB/2 GB), SMS, and basic app benefits.
When to choose Airtel postpaid
Choose Airtel postpaid if you:
- Want a fixed monthly rental with bundled data and calls.
- Need family plans with multiple add‑on SIMs under one bill.
- Value extras like OTT subscriptions and Airtel Thanks benefits.
You can browse both prepaid and postpaid MNP offers on Airtel’s official port‑in pages before deciding.
Port Jio to Airtel Online (Doorstep SIM Delivery)
If you prefer not to visit a store, you can initiate Jio‑to‑Airtel port online and get your SIM delivered at home.
Steps to raise online port request on Airtel site
- Go to the official Airtel “Port Number” or port‑in page.
- Enter the Jio mobile number you want to port to Airtel.
- Select prepaid or postpaid and choose your preferred plan.
- Fill in your name, address, and PIN code for doorstep SIM delivery.
- Submit the form to generate a port‑in request with Airtel.
What happens during the executive visit
- An Airtel executive will call you to confirm your availability and visit time.
- During the visit, keep ready:
- Your Jio SIM in a working phone
- The UPC SMS
- Aadhaar or other valid ID proof
- The executive will complete your e‑KYC (biometric or OTP‑based) and finalize the port‑in form.
- You’ll receive a new Airtel SIM and confirmation that your Jio‑to‑Airtel port request has been submitted.
Port Jio to Airtel Offline (Airtel Store or Retailer)
If you prefer the traditional method, you can submit your port request at a nearby Airtel store or authorised retailer.
Steps to submit port request at store
- Visit the nearest Airtel Store or retailer with:
- Your Jio SIM and phone
- UPC SMS
- Aadhaar/ID proof and a photo (if asked)
- Tell the executive that you want to port Jio to Airtel and choose prepaid or postpaid.
- Share your UPC and mobile number; the executive will fill the digital CAF or perform e‑KYC.
- Provide an alternate contact number and address if requested.
First recharge and SIM activation
- Select your first Airtel recharge (for prepaid) or your postpaid plan, and pay the required amount.
- The store will hand over a new Airtel SIM tagged to your Jio number’s port‑in request.
- You’ll receive SMS updates about your MNP status over the next 1–3 working days.
Jio to Airtel Porting Time and Activation Process
TRAI timeline for MNP
As per TRAI’s updated rules, MNP timelines are:
- Intra‑circle porting (within the same telecom circle): usually completed in 3 working days.
- Inter‑circle porting (between different circles): usually completed in 5 working days.
These are maximum timelines; in practice, many users see completion within 2–3 days for same‑circle porting.
What to do during the porting window
You can continue using your Jio SIM as normal until the final porting window. During the actual switch:
- Your Jio network will stop working for a brief period (typically 1–2 hours, often late at night).
- When Jio signals drop and calls/data stop, remove the Jio SIM from your phone.
- Insert the new Airtel SIM and wait for the Airtel network bars to appear.
- Once the signal is live, your Jio number is officially ported to Airtel and ready to use.
You may get a welcome SMS from Airtel confirming activation and your chosen plan benefits.
Jio to Airtel Port Charges and Validity
Airtel generally does not charge a separate MNP fee when you port in; you mainly pay for your first recharge or the selected postpaid plan. The validity of your Airtel services depends on the plan you choose (28 days, 56 days, 84 days, monthly billing, etc.).
If you are on Jio prepaid, any remaining talk time or data balance will not be carried over to Airtel and will lapse once the port is completed.
Common Reasons Why Jio to Airtel Port Fails
Port requests can occasionally get rejected. Here are common reasons and how to avoid them.
- Your Jio number is not 90 days old since activation or last port.
- Outstanding dues on your Jio postpaid account.
- An incorrect or expired UPC was submitted to Airtel.
- KYC mismatch between your ID proof and Jio’s records.
- The number is linked to fraud, security, or legal issues.
If your request is rejected, fix the issue (clear dues, correct KYC, generate fresh UPC) and then reapply.
Tips Before You Port Jio to Airtel
A few practical checks can make the switch smoother:
- Backup contacts, if any, are still stored on the SIM, even though most users sync via Google/iCloud now.
- Avoid initiating porting right before travel or critical work days, as there will be a short downtime.
- If you use your Jio number for banking, UPI, or OTPs, keep an alternate number active and avoid high‑risk transactions during the port window.
- Compare Airtel plans for data, voice, roaming, and OTT benefits so you don’t downgrade your experience.
FAQs on Jio to Airtel Port in 2026
1. How long does it take to port from Jio to Airtel?
Porting usually takes 3 working days within the same circle and up to 5 working days for inter-circle porting.
2. Can I use my Jio SIM during the porting period?
Yes, the Jio SIM remains active until the final porting window.
3. Will my mobile number change after porting from Jio to Airtel?
No, your mobile number remains the same; only the operator changes from Jio to Airtel.
4. Are there any charges for porting Jio to Airtel?
There is no separate MNP fee. Users only pay for the selected Airtel plan.
5. Can I cancel my Jio to Airtel port request?
Yes, TRAI allows cancellation within a limited window using an operator‑specific SMS format, but the exact steps and timing can change. You should check with customer support for current rules.
6. Can I port again soon after moving from Jio to Airtel?
No. You must stay with Airtel for at least 90 days before porting again.
