How to Transfer Mobile Data on MTN in South Africa

Need to help a friend or family member stay connected? MTN, a leading South African mobile network provider, offers convenient ways to transfer mobile data to those in need. This blog post explores two methods for transferring data on MTN: using USSD codes and SMS.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need

i. Your MTN phone with sufficient airtime for the transfer fee.

ii. The recipient’s MTN phone number.

iii. The amount of data you want to transfer (in MB).

Option 1: Transferring Data Using USSD Codes (Quick and Easy)

1. Dial 1317# on your MTN phone’s keypad. This will launch the MTN Data Share menu.

2. Select Option 1: This option is typically for “Transfer from Data Balance.”

3. Enter the Recipient’s Number: Carefully enter the MTN phone number of the person you want to send data to.

4. Enter Data Amount (MB): Input the amount of data you want to transfer in Megabytes (MB).

5. Confirm the Transaction: Double-check the recipient’s number and data amount before confirming.

6. You’ll Receive a Confirmation SMS: Upon successful transfer, you’ll receive a confirmation message on your phone. The recipient will also be notified.

Option 2: Transferring Data Using SMS (Simple and Straightforward)

1. Open your Messages app.

2. Compose a New Message: In the message body, type “Transfer” followed by a space, then the recipient’s MTN phone number, another space, and the data amount in MB. For example: “Transfer 0812345678 500” (without quotes).

3. Send the SMS to 131: Send the message to the shortcode 131.

4. Confirmation via SMS: Similar to the USSD method, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS if the transfer is successful. The recipient will also be notified.

Important Reminders for MTN Data Transfers

a. Transfer Limits: MTN has daily and monthly data transfer limits. Check their website for current limits to avoid exceeding them.

b. Transfer Fees: There’s a service fee associated with data transfers. MTN’s website should have details on current fees.

c. Prepaid vs. Postpaid: The process might differ slightly for prepaid and postpaid MTN accounts. Always refer to MTN’s website for the most up-to-date information specific to your account type.

Helping a friend or family member stay connected is a thoughtful gesture. With several options on how to transfer data on MTN, you can easily share your data allowance and keep them browsing, streaming, and chatting for longer.

Do you have any questions about transferring data on MTN? Share your tips or experiences in the comments below!

MTN Mobile Data Transfer FAQs

Sharing mobile data with MTN in South Africa is a convenient way to help those in need. This FAQ section addresses common questions based on the blog post:

Q: How can I transfer mobile data on MTN?

A: There are two main methods:

1. USSD Codes: Dial 1317# and follow the prompts to transfer data from your existing balance.
2. SMS: Text “Transfer” followed by a space, the recipient’s MTN number, another space, and the data amount in MB (e.g., “Transfer 0812345678 100”) to 131.

Q: What do I need before transferring data?

• Enough airtime on your MTN phone to cover the transfer fee.
• The recipient’s MTN phone number.
• The amount of data you want to transfer (in MB).

Q: Are there any limitations on data transfers?

A: Yes, MTN has daily and monthly data transfer limits. Check their website for current restrictions to avoid exceeding them.

Q: Are there any charges for transferring data?

A: Yes, MTN charges a service fee for data transfers. Their website should have details on current fees.

Q: Does the process differ between prepaid and postpaid accounts?

A: The process might have slight variations depending on your MTN account type (prepaid vs. postpaid). Always refer to MTN’s website for the most recent information specific to your plan.

Q: Will I receive confirmation after transferring data?

A: Yes, upon successful transfer, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS. The recipient will also be notified.

Q: Can I transfer data to any network in South Africa?

A: No, MTN data transfer is currently limited to MTN users within South Africa.