Absolutely! Let's get you sorted with porting your mobile number from Vi to Airtel. This is a common and straightforward process, and I'll walk you through every single step to make it as smooth as possible.
The Seamless Switch: Porting Your Mobile Number from Vi to Airtel
Are you tired of your current mobile network and looking for a change? Perhaps you've heard great things about Airtel's network coverage, data speeds, or customer service, and you're ready to make the switch from Vi. Whatever your reasons, porting your mobile number is a fantastic way to enjoy a new service provider without the hassle of changing your number and updating all your contacts.
Ready to embark on this journey with me? Let's get your number ported and unlock a world of new possibilities with Airtel!
Step 1: Are You Eligible to Port? Let's Find Out!
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, it's crucial to ensure you're eligible to port your number. Don't worry, it's usually quite simple!
Here's what you need to check:
Minimum Residency Period: Your Vi number must have been active for at least 90 days with Vi. If you've recently activated your Vi SIM or ported to Vi less than three months ago, you'll need to wait a bit longer. This is a regulatory requirement.
Outstanding Dues: Ensure you have no outstanding bills or dues with Vi. If you're a postpaid user, you'll need to settle all your pending payments before initiating the porting process. For prepaid users, this isn't typically an issue, but it's good practice to use up your remaining balance as it won't be carried over.
Active Connection: Your Vi number must be active and not suspended or disconnected for any reason.
No Contractual Obligations: If you're on a postpaid plan with a long-term contract, ensure you've completed its duration or are prepared to pay any early termination fees.
Once you've confirmed these points, you're good to go!
Step 2: Generating Your Unique Porting Code (UPC)
This is the magic code that makes the porting process possible. The UPC is valid for a limited time, so it's best to generate it when you're ready to proceed with the next steps.
There are two primary ways to get your UPC:
Sub-heading 2.1: Via SMS (The Easiest Way!)
Open your messaging app on your Vi mobile number.
Create a new message.
Type
PORTfollowed by a space, and then your 10-digit mobile number.Example:
PORT 9876543210
Send this SMS to 1900.
Within a few seconds, you will receive an SMS from 1900 containing your 10-digit Alphanumeric UPC (Unique Porting Code) and its expiry date.
Keep this SMS safe! You'll need it shortly.
Sub-heading 2.2: Visiting a Vi Store (If SMS Isn't Working)
While less common, if you're facing issues generating the UPC via SMS, you can visit a Vi customer service store. They will assist you in generating the UPC. Remember to carry a valid ID proof.
Step 3: Visiting Your Nearest Airtel Store or Retailer
With your UPC in hand, it's time to head to an Airtel store or an authorized Airtel retailer. You'll need to purchase a new Airtel SIM card and initiate the porting request.
Sub-heading 3.1: What to Carry With You
Make sure you have the following documents and information ready:
Your Original UPC SMS: The SMS you received from 1900 with your UPC.
Proof of Identity (POI): This could be your Aadhar Card, Passport, Driver's License, or Voter ID.
Proof of Address (POA): This could also be your Aadhar Card, Passport, Driver's License, Voter ID, Utility Bill (electricity, water, etc.), or Bank Passbook. Ensure the address matches your current residence.
A Passport-sized Photograph: While not always required for e-KYC, it's good to carry one just in case.
Your Vi Mobile Phone: You'll need it to receive an OTP during the e-KYC process.
Sub-heading 3.2: The Application Process at the Store
Inform the Airtel executive that you wish to port your number from Vi to Airtel.
Provide them with your UPC.
Choose your desired Airtel plan (prepaid or postpaid). The executive will guide you through the available options.
The executive will initiate the e-KYC (Electronic Know Your Customer) process. This involves verifying your identity using your Aadhaar number and fingerprint scan, or an OTP-based verification if supported.
You will fill out a Mobile Number Portability (MNP) form. Double-check all the details you provide.
You will receive a new Airtel SIM card. Do NOT insert this SIM into your phone yet.
Step 4: Verification Call from Vi (The "Retention Call")
After you submit your porting request, Vi (your current operator) will likely call you within a day or two. This is often referred to as a "retention call."
Purpose of the Call: Vi will try to understand your reasons for porting and may offer you exclusive deals, discounts, or special plans to retain you as a customer.
Your Response: Be polite but firm if you've made up your mind to switch. You are not obligated to accept any offers. Simply reiterate that you wish to proceed with porting your number.
Step 5: The Porting Window: Waiting for the Switch
Once your request is successfully submitted and verified, you'll enter the porting window.
Timeline:
For porting within the same telecom circle (e.g., within Maharashtra), the process typically takes 3-5 business days.
For porting to a different telecom circle (e.g., from Maharashtra to Delhi), it might take 5-7 business days.
Please note: Sundays and public holidays are usually not counted as business days.
During the Porting Window:
Your Vi SIM will continue to work normally.
You will receive SMS updates from Airtel regarding the status of your porting request.
Airtel will usually send you an SMS a few hours before the actual porting time, informing you that your Vi SIM will lose network signal.
Step 6: Activating Your New Airtel SIM
This is the final and most exciting step!
Sub-heading 6.1: When Your Vi SIM Loses Signal
On the day of porting, at the specified time (usually late at night or early morning), your Vi SIM will suddenly lose network signal. This is a clear indication that the porting process is complete from Vi's side.
Sub-heading 6.2: Inserting and Activating the Airtel SIM
Carefully remove your old Vi SIM card from your mobile phone.
Insert the new Airtel SIM card that you received during the application process.
Wait for 15-30 minutes. Your Airtel SIM will automatically register to the network. You might see "No Service" or "Searching" initially, but it should soon connect.
Once you see the Airtel network name on your phone, try making a call. If the call connects, your SIM is active!
Sub-heading 6.3: Post-Activation Checks
Recharge (Prepaid): If you opted for a prepaid plan, you'll need to do your first recharge to activate the plan benefits.
Check Plan Details: Dial the relevant USSD codes or use the Airtel Thanks app to verify your plan benefits (data, calls, SMS).
Inform Contacts: While your number remains the same, it's a good idea to inform your important contacts that you've switched networks, just in case.
Congratulations! You have successfully ported your mobile number from Vi to Airtel. Enjoy the new network experience!
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions you might have about porting your number, with quick answers:
How to check if my Vi number is eligible for porting?
You can check eligibility by ensuring your Vi number has been active for at least 90 days and that you have no outstanding dues.
How to get my Unique Porting Code (UPC) from Vi?
SMS PORT <your 10-digit mobile number> to 1900. You will receive an SMS with your UPC.
How long is the UPC valid for?
The UPC is typically valid for 4 days (earlier it was 15 days, but was revised). It's crucial to use it within this period.
How much does it cost to port a number from Vi to Airtel?
There is generally a nominal porting fee, often around ₹6-₹10, which might be waived by Airtel as part of promotional offers. The cost of the new Airtel plan will vary based on your selection.
How to track the status of my porting request?
You can track your porting status by contacting Airtel customer care, or sometimes through the Airtel Thanks app once the request is initiated.
How to know when my Vi SIM will stop working during porting?
Airtel will send you an SMS notification a few hours before the scheduled porting time, indicating that your Vi SIM will lose network signal.
How to activate my new Airtel SIM after porting?
Once your Vi SIM loses signal, insert your new Airtel SIM. It should automatically activate within 15-30 minutes. Make a test call to confirm activation.
How to avoid any issues during the porting process?
Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, have cleared all Vi dues, provide correct documents, and respond to Vi's verification call if received.
How to retain my existing balance if I am a Vi prepaid customer?
Unfortunately, any remaining balance on your Vi prepaid SIM will be forfeited upon porting. It's advisable to use up your balance before initiating the port.
How to resolve issues if porting is delayed or fails?
If you face delays or issues, first contact Airtel customer care. If the problem persists, you can raise a complaint with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
