What is Mobile Number Portability (MNP)?

Mobilink (Jazz) was the first GSM company in Pakistan. It was launched in 1994, but proper SIM-based prepaid communication services were started in 1998. At that time, the SIM operator code was 0300, and it was the starting era of mobile communication in Pakistan.

However, many people wanted to change their network while keeping the same number and operator code. For this purpose, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has offered the Mobile Number Portability (MNP). It means you can change your network operator but keep your number.

We will find out how you can use the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) service to change your mobile network operator.

What is Mobile Number Portability (MNP)?

Mobile Number Portability (MNP) is a service that allows mobile users in Pakistan to switch from one network operator to another without changing their existing mobile number.

This service is regulated by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and helps users choose better network coverage, call rates, or service quality while keeping the same SIM number and operator code.

Eligibility Criteria for Mobile Number Portability (MNP)?

Before you file a request to port your number from your current one to another mobile network operator, you need to pass the eligibility criteria rules for 2026.

The SIM must be active at the time of the porting request.
All outstanding bills, dues, or advance balances or loans on the current SIM must be cleared.
The user must possess a valid and original CNIC for verification.
The SIM must have been in use for a minimum period of 60-90 days on the current network.
The current SIM must have at least Rs. 6 balance (for SMS) before the porting process.
Pay the portability charges as per the SIM operator’s rules.

How to Initiate the Porting Request?

Follow the steps below:

Pick up your mobile phone with the current SIM activated.
Go to the SMS section and write a new SMS.
Write MNP in the message body and send it to 667.
Now you will receive an SMS containing the details:
1. MSISDN
2. Name
3. CNIC
4. Activation Date
5. Connection Type (Prepaid or Postpaid).
You need to forward this SMS to 76300.
After that, you need to visit the nearest Customer Service Center (CSC) or franchise of your preferred mobile network, such as Jazz, Telenor, Zong, Ufone, etc.
In that franchise, you need to show the SMS that you have received from the current mobile network provider and request that I want to port my number to your network.
The customer service agent will verify your identity via the MBVS (Biometric Verification System) device.
Once all the steps are completed, you will get a new SIM card from the service agent.

Note: You need to wait for 4 working days before your new SIM card starts working. Also, there are some charges for portability.

Understanding the Codes of Portability

Here are some codes with their meanings that you should know about.

Mobile Number Portability or MNP: This means switching from one mobile operator to another while keeping the old number.
Operator: A company or organization that has a license to offer Mobile Cellular Services in Pakistan.
Quarantine Period: The quarantine period refers to the time during which a mobile number is kept inactive after a subscription is terminated. During this period, the number cannot be reused or assigned to another user.
Subscriber: A person who is using any operator’s service.

F.A.Q

You need to pay Rs. 550 if you want to port in your SIM from other operators to Jazz.

No, you need to keep your new SIM active for at least 60 days before you can port it to another network provider.

Yes, you can transfer the ownership of a SIM. For this, you need to visit the franchise of that SIM operator with the person who is transferring the ownership. Both should have their original identity cards and pass the biometric verification.