Thinking about switching from Airtel prepaid to postpaid but not sure if you’re eligible? You’re not alone! Many users want to enjoy the benefits of postpaid plans — better data, no recharges, family sharing — but aren’t sure whether they meet Airtel’s criteria.
In this post, we’ll break down how to check your eligibility, what factors matter, and what to do if your request is rejected. Let’s clear up the confusion.
Why Check Eligibility First?
Airtel has certain guidelines before allowing a prepaid number to move to postpaid. If your number doesn’t meet those, your request might get delayed or rejected.
✅ Knowing your eligibility saves time
✅ Avoids surprise rejections at store or online
✅ Helps you prepare documents and requirements in advance
Airtel Prepaid to Postpaid Eligibility – What Airtel Checks
Here are the main factors Airtel looks at before approving your migration:
1. Your Telecom Circle (Location)
-
Not all postpaid plans are available in all regions.
-
Online conversion may not be supported in Tier 2/3 cities — you may need to visit a store.
2. KYC Status
-
Your SIM must be registered with valid KYC (Know Your Customer) details.
-
If your Aadhar/PAN or other documents are outdated or missing, conversion won’t go through.
3. Age of Connection
-
Some users report needing to have the prepaid SIM active for at least 90 days before migrating to postpaid.
-
Recently activated SIMs might not be eligible immediately.
4. Prepaid Plan / Status
-
Your current balance, active plan, or other settings may impact eligibility.
-
If you’re already in a special corporate or group prepaid plan, you may face limitations.
5. Outstanding Dues or Issues
-
Any unresolved complaints, number lock, or unpaid dues may delay or block migration.
6. Reference Check (For Offline Conversion)
-
In some offline cases, Airtel may ask for 2 local reference numbers for verification.
-
This is mostly for fraud prevention in certain areas.
How to Check Airtel Postpaid Eligibility (Step-by-Step)
✅ Method 1: Use Airtel Website (Online)
-
Go to the Airtel Prepaid to Postpaid Conversion Page:
airtel.in/postpaid/prepaid-to-postpaid -
Enter your existing Airtel number.
-
Tap on Get OTP, verify the number.
-
Airtel will show available postpaid plans for your number — if your number is eligible, you can proceed.
If you’re not eligible, the website may show an error, or won’t let you go past OTP.
✅ Method 2: Check via Airtel Thanks App
-
Open the Airtel Thanks App (available on Android and iOS).
-
Tap on your prepaid number → scroll to “Switch to Postpaid”.
-
If your number is eligible, you’ll see plan options. If not, it may say “Not eligible” or prompt you to visit a store.
✅ Method 3: Visit a Store (Manual Check)
-
Head to your nearest Airtel store with ID proof.
-
Ask the executive to check eligibility for postpaid migration.
-
They’ll check in their system, verify your documents, and confirm whether your number qualifies.
Tips to Improve Eligibility (If Denied)
-
✅ Ensure your SIM is at least 90 days old
-
✅ Update your KYC at a nearby Airtel store
-
✅ Clear any dues or pending issues on your number
-
✅ Use your number regularly — low usage may get flagged
-
✅ Visit store if online method fails — they have more flexibility
What If You’re Not Eligible Online?
If you get stuck online — don’t worry! Most users who are denied online can still convert to postpaid by visiting an Airtel store with:
-
Aadhar or valid photo ID
-
Proof of address
-
Alternate contact numbers (if required)
The offline process often works where the online tool fails due to regional restrictions or incomplete KYC.
♂️ FAQs About Airtel Prepaid to Postpaid Eligibility
Can I convert to postpaid without changing my number?
Yes! You’ll keep your current Airtel number — no change is required.
Is there a minimum time I must use the prepaid SIM before switching?
Yes, typically your number must be active for at least 90 days.
Why does Airtel ask for two reference numbers?
This is mostly during offline/store conversion and helps with verification — it’s not always required.
Can I switch to postpaid if I’m using an MNP (ported) number?
Yes, but MNP numbers may have a lock-in period (usually 90 days) before switching plans or types.
Final Thoughts
Checking your Airtel prepaid to postpaid eligibility is the first smart step toward upgrading. Most users are eligible — but if you’re not, don’t sweat it! A quick visit to a nearby Airtel store usually resolves it.
Just make sure:
-
Your SIM is active for 90+ days
-
Your KYC is updated
-
You don’t have any outstanding issues