Are you searching for “How to port to BSNL” from your current mobile operator? Well, you are in the right place. With the recent tariff hikes from other telecom operators, BSNL seems like the only reliable operator with reasonable rates.The company has introduced some exciting plans to woo consumers who are sitting on the fence.
Here is a complete step-by-step process to help you get started on how to port to BSNL if you are a Jio, Airtel or Vi customer. This includes instructions for both online as well as offline, so let’s get started.
Also read: How To Check BSNL Balance, Data Usage, And SMS Validity Using USSD Codes
Why Should You Port Your Number to BSNL?
There are various reasons why you should consider porting your number to BSNL, but the main reason is that BSNL has the cheapest and most affordable postpaid and prepaid recharge plan as compared to other telecom providers. The lowest postpaid plan you can take is Rs. 199. If you are considering a prepaid plan, you can opt for it for Rs. 147. BSNL offers SMS packs, national and international roaming, etc., at competitive rates.
Before we dive deep into portability steps, let’s first understand the important concept of MNP in the next section.
Also read: Port Your VI Mobile Connection To Airtel: 4 Easy Steps
What is MNP?
MNP stands for Mobile Number Portability. It lets users port from one mobile network operator to another without any data loss or contact number change. The TRAI provides this facility – the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India- to make sure that all consumers have the best experience and enjoy maximum compensation. All major network providers like Airtel, Jio, Vodafone, and Idea offer porting facilities that users can carry out in a few steps. Users only need UPC – Unique Porting Code for it and must follow what network operators instruct them to do.
How to Port to BSNL from Jio, Airtel, Vi: Step-by-Step Procedure
Whether you are searching for an answer to how to port Airtel to BSNL, how to port Jio to BSNL, or how to port Vi to BSNL, the answer is the same. You need to follow the same procedure to port to BSNL from any network operator. Let’s check out these steps.
- Ensure you don’t have any pending bills from your existing telecom provider. If you have that, kindly settle it; otherwise, you won’t be able to port it to BSNL or any other telecom provider.
- Generate UPC code – Unique Porting Code. For that, you need to follow this syntax: PORT <Your Mobile Phone Number> and send it to 1900. The UPC code’s validity is 15 days, but if you live in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, or in the North East, it’s 30 days.
- Once you receive the UPC code, visit your nearest BSNL centre to complete the porting process.
- When you visit the BSNL centre, they will give you the CAF – Customer Application Form. You need to fill out that form and submit necessary documents like address proof and a valid photo ID to initiate the MNP process.
- Submit your Unique Porting Code – UPC and pay the porting fees, which are usually quite nominal.
- Once you pay the fees, they will give you a new BSNL SIM card and send you an SMS that includes information like when the porting process will be complete and activation of the BSNL SIM card. All you need to do is replace your old SIM card with the new BSNL SIM card.
If you face any issues during the porting process, you can contact BSNL customer care at 1800-180-1503.
Also read: Explained: How BSNL Speed Test Works
What do you Need to Consider Before Porting Your Number?
The first thing you need to consider before applying for the port number request is to check whether or not you fulfil the eligible criteria. If you meet the eligibility criteria, check which documents are required to port to BSNL. Keep those documents handy. Here are the basic eligibility requirements.
- If you are a postpaid user, ensure you have no outstanding bills. If you have, clear it immediately otherwise, you will not be able to port to BSNL.
- Your current mobile phone number must be active under your previous mobile network operator for at least 90 days.
- Mobile number ownership change requests should not be ongoing.
- Your mobile number is eligible for the port by law.
- The mobile number is not involved in any legal proceedings.
- Your mobile number should not engaged in any pending contractual obligation.
If you don’t meet any of the above requirements, then BSNL can easily reject your port request. Besides, keep the following documents handy.
- Passport size photo
- Identity proof
- Address proof
- Last mobile bill
For proof of address and identity, you can use the following documents.
- Aadhar card
- Ration card
- Telephone bill (maximum three months old)
- Water bill (maximum three months old)
- Driving license
- Voter ID
- Electricity bill (maximum three months old)
If you are a prepaid user, any remaining talk time, data benefits, SMS packs, or promotional offers will not transfer to your new operator. Your existing balance and validity period will not be transferred to your new BSNL service provider. You need to start with a new plan and balance according to the new operator’s offerings.Make sure to clear any outstanding dues and pay any pending bills before porting your prepaid number to BSNL.
Also read: All BSNL Recharge Plans Prepaid For August 2024!
How to Withdraw the Porting Request?
You can withdraw the porting request by sending an SMS to 1900. Remember, you need to send the SMS within 24 hours. The SMS format should be like this – CANCEL <Your Mobile Number> and send it to the 1900. Once the UPC has been submitted, you cannot withdraw the porting request. Besides, you will not get a refund for the porting charges you paid.
Signing Off
That’s everything you need to learn about how to port to BSNL. Since the company has not hiked its tariff plans, it is a viable option for consumers who don’t want 5G but are more interested in calls. Hope this article solved all your queries regarding the port process. If you still have any doubts, you can ask them in the comments section below.
FAQs
Why Is BSNL SIM Not Available In Delhi?
BSNL SIM is unavailable in Delhi as the government operates MTNL (Mahangar Telephone Nigam Limited), a subsidiary of BSNL that specifically caters to the city.
How can I port my number to BSNL?
You just need to send an SMS PORT <space> mobile number to 1900. This will generate a UPC (Unique Port Code) that you must share with a BSNL retailer.
How long will it take to port my number?
It can take three working days if your number is being ported within the same circle and five days if it is transferred to another telecom circle.
Also read: Latest BSNL Postpaid Plans – August 2024
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