MTN Data Transfer USSD Code

Quick Answer

Last Verified: July 2026

To transfer or share data on MTN South Africa, dial *136*5# to access the MTN Data Share menu, or dial *136*3# to use MTN Me2U (buying or transferring data bundles directly).

Alternatively, both options can be accessed through the main self-service menu by dialing *136# or by using the official MTN App. Only eligible paid anytime data bundles can be shared, and recipient limits apply.

What the Service Is and Who Can Use It

MTN South Africa provides two distinct self-service mechanisms to share mobile data with other MTN numbers:

1. MTN Data Share: Allows you to link beneficiary MTN numbers to share and deplete your central data wallet concurrently.
2. MTN Me2U: Allows you to send or transfer a specific standalone data bundle or airtime to another MTN user.

Eligibility & Prerequisites

• Account Types: Active MTN Prepaid customers and eligible Postpaid/Contract price plans with active anytime data bundles.
• Network Requirement: Both sender and recipient must be active MTN South Africa subscribers.
• Exclusions: Promotional data, Night Express data, social media bundles, and bonus data cannot be transferred or shared. Cross-network transfers (e.g., MTN to Vodacom or Cell C) are not supported.

How to Transfer Data

Before You Start

• Confirm that your account holds an active, eligible paid anytime data bundle or sufficient airtime balance.
• Verify the recipient’s 10-digit MTN mobile number to avoid sending data to the wrong user.

Verified Step-by-Step Process

Method 1: Linking Beneficiaries via MTN Data Share (*136*5#)

1. Dial *136*5# from your MTN line and press the call button.
2. Choose Data Share from the pop-up menu.
3. Select Activate / Manage Beneficiaries.
4. Enter the recipient’s 10-digit MTN mobile number (e.g., 0831234567).
5. Confirm the request. Once linked, the beneficiary draws directly from your eligible data wallet.

Method 2: Direct Bundle Transfer via MTN Me2U (*136*3#)

1. Dial *136*3# (or dial *136# and select Me2U).
2. Choose Transfer Data or Buy for Others.
3. Select the desired bundle size.
4. Enter the recipient’s 10-digit MTN mobile number.
5. Confirm the transaction details.

Confirmation or Expected Result

• On-Screen Pop-up: You will see an immediate USSD response confirming whether the request succeeded or is processing.
• SMS Notification: Both sender and recipient will receive confirmation SMS messages showing the updated status, recipient number, or bundle allocation.
• Troubleshooting Delays: If your balance is debited but the recipient does not receive the bundle within 15 minutes, dial *136# to verify your balance and retain your SMS confirmation for customer support.

Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors

• “Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code”: Ensure you have network reception and that dual-SIM devices route the USSD request via the active MTN SIM card.
• “User Not Eligible”: Occurs if you try to share non-transferable data (such as promotional, bonus, or Night Express data) or if your price plan restricts sharing.
• “Session Timed Out”: Redial *136*5# and complete the steps promptly without pauses.

When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable

USSD menu structures can occasionally change during network upgrades. If shortcodes do not respond:

1. Dial the main menu *136# and navigate to Manage Bundles or Services.
2. Dial *130*0# to reach the main operator service menu.

Official Alternatives

If USSD is unresponsive or unavailable, use these official MTN channels:

• MTN App: Download the official MTN App for Android or iOS. Navigate to Services $\rightarrow$ Data Share or Me2U to manage beneficiaries and transfers visually.
• MTN Web Portal: Log in to your profile on mtn.co.za.
• Customer Support: Call 135 (free from an MTN SIM) or visit an official MTN Branded Retail Store.

Safety and Privacy

• Protect Credentials: MTN will never ask for your SIM PIN, account password, or One-Time PIN (OTP) to process a data transfer.
• Double-Check Numbers: Always verify the recipient’s phone number prior to confirming. Completed data transfers cannot be reversed.
• Avoid Scams: Disregard unsolicited messages or callers asking you to dial transfer codes to claim prizes or rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current MTN Data Transfer USSD Code?

The USSD code for MTN Data Share is *136*5#. For direct Me2U transfers, dial *136*3#.

Which bundles can be transferred?

Only standard paid inclusive anytime data bundles and selected prepaid anytime bundles are eligible. Promotional, bonus, and Night Express bundles are excluded.

Can data be sent across networks?

No. MTN data transfer and Data Share services operate exclusively between active MTN South Africa numbers.

What limits apply?

You can link up to a maximum of 5 beneficiary numbers to your MTN Data Share service at one time.

What should I do if the MTN USSD route does not work?

Use the official MTN App, manage your account online via the official web portal, or dial 135 for customer assistance.

Related Guides

• MTN — Return to the main MTN service directory.
• MTN USSD Code To Check Balance — View codes for checking airtime and account balances.
• MTN Data Balance USSD Code — Quick steps to check remaining data balances.
• How To Check MTN Number USSD Code — Display your phone number via USSD.
• MTN Internet Settings USSD Code — Receive internet and APN configuration settings.
• Mobile Network USSD Codes — Browse shortcodes for all South African mobile networks.