In Mexico, you are allowed to switch to another mobile operator while keeping your existing phone number. Transferring a mobile number from one operator to another — a process provided for by regulation by the Federal Institute of Telecommunications (IFT). Since 2008, it has been included in the list of unconditional subscriber rights and is sold as a free service, available to both users of prepaid and postpaid tariffs. The rules are the same for all operators, including Telcel, Movistar, AT&T, and in addition virtual providers using their infrastructure (MVNO), such as Bait, Diri, Oui and others.
Technically, the transfer is implemented through an identification system based on a one-time four-digit code (NIP) request. That is, the first step — send an SMS with the text «NIP» to number 051. The answer with the code comes automatically.
The code is valid for five calendar days. During this period, the subscriber must contact the new operator and initiate the transfer. Repurchase of NIP is possible at any time.
When contacting an office or point of sale of a new operator, you must present:
- ID card — passport, INE or other official document,
- SIM card with the number to be transferred — it will be replaced with a card from a new operator,
- NIP code received via SMS to number 051.
You will need to fill out an application, which will be completed on site. But usually the operator’s office staff fills it out themselves and then only lets you sign it. Additionally, it is possible to request a screenshot indicating the number or another secondary document confirming ownership of the number. If the number is registered to another person or there is no reliable data in the old operator’s system, the transfer may be rejected until the discrepancies are resolved.
The most common mistake — an attempt to port a number without first registering your identity. If the old number was activated «on the street» Without papers, transfer is not possible. You will first have to visit the office of the current operator and register the number officially in your name, and only then submit an application to the new operator.
The transfer process usually takes from 30 minutes to 24 hours. In most cases, the transition is completed within one business day. When a new SIM card is activated, there may be a short-term interruption in service due to the deactivation of the previous card and the activation of the new one. Communication settings are made automatically. The transfer does not require participation from the subscriber after completion of the procedure at the point of service.
Transfer restrictions apply only to the technical side. The number must be active, the SIM card has not been disabled due to prolonged inactivity or blocking, it must be in working condition, and the owner’s data corresponds to the documents. Transfer of blocked or deactivated numbers is not allowed. In case of loss of the SIM card, restoration is permitted only by contacting the current operator, after which the standard transfer process is allowed.
There is no payment from the user for the transfer. This applies to both activating a new SIM card and completing the entire procedure. Delays or attempts to collect fees by operators are a violation of the law and are subject to appeal through IFT.
Transfer is possible an unlimited number of times. The legislation does not establish minimum terms of service for one operator, does not require a positive balance, and does not limit the frequency of changing providers. In large cities, subscribers can change operators at least every week, collecting starter packages and bonuses. Each transfer requires a new NIP and obtaining a new SIM card.
Important point — what happens to the balance. Money remaining in the account with the old operator will not be transferred. They burn out. The prepaid balance is canceled if the subscriber does not use it before activating a new SIM card. For this reason, it makes sense to port a number when the current operator's balance is already depleted, but the card is still active for several months. Some operators offer a balance compensation service, but this is more of a marketing thing. In the case of contract tariffs, standards for repaying the balance of the obligation are possible. It is important to understand: the debt under the contract is not canceled when the number is transferred. The operator has the right to collect a penalty for early termination of the contract, if this is provided for by the rules of the contract.
The procedure is monitored through SMS notifications and online services. You can check the status of the number herewebsite. In addition, the subscriber is able to issue confirmation of the transfer by contacting the contact center of the new operator.
In addition, virtual operators are required to follow uniform rules, but in some cases there may be temporary delays associated with the technical processing of applications.
The transfer procedure is mandatory for all telecom operators. It does not require prior consent from the previous operator. Attempts to detain a subscriber in the form of blocking NIP, refusing to issue a code, or creating artificial barriers are considered a violation. A complaint can be submitted to IFT electronically.
The SIM card itself is always replaced when transferred. The old card needs to be deactivated. You can't insert an old card into a new phone and expect it to work. This is a physical replacement. The new SIM card is activated under the same number, after which further service is carried out by the new operator. At the same time, the technical characteristics of communication depend solely on the new infrastructure.
If the number was recently activated, the requirement for a minimum wait time before porting (from several hours to a day), associated with internal network synchronization, is allowed. This does not constitute an official limitation, but is enforced by some operators.
Mobile number porting in Mexico — standard process. The subscriber just needs to find the code, present the papers and submit an application to the new operator. The process does not require special knowledge.