USSD Code To Transfer Airtime: The Complete Guide (2025)

Staying connected has never been more essential, and sharing airtime instantly across networks in South Africa is a critical convenience for millions of users. Knowing the right USSD code to transfer airtime can make all the difference in emergencies, for family support, or simply to help out a friend in need. This step-by-step guide unpacks exactly how to send airtime using USSD codes, with tips specific to each major network and answers to the most common questions.

Essential Highlights

USSD codes are the fastest, app-free way to transfer airtime between mobile accounts in South Africa.
Each mobile operator has its own specific USSD code sequence for transferring airtime.
Some networks let you use SMS or the official app as alternatives.
You can find more operator-specific codes and support at ussdcode.co.za and USSD code to transfer airtime.
Confirmation messages are sent to both sender and recipient for each successful transfer.

<a href="#section-1">What Are USSD Codes and Why Are They Important?</a>
<a href="#section-2">Network-Specific USSD Codes to Transfer Airtime</a>
<a href="#section-3">Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer Airtime (All Networks)</a>
<a href="#section-4">Additional Tips for Airtime Transfers</a>
<a href="#section-5">Useful Resources and Internal Links</a>
<a href="#section-6">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)</a>

What Are USSD Codes and Why Are They Important?

USSD codes are short codes you enter on your phone to access essential mobile services without using data or apps.

Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) is a protocol that lets mobile phones communicate directly with a cellular network’s computers. This allows you to perform tasks like checking balances, sending “please call me” messages, or transferring airtime by simply dialing a code with a few keystrokes.

Why do millions rely on USSD codes?
– Fast and universally supported on all devices (no smartphone needed)
– No internet connection or data required
– Direct, secure, and instant
– Easily accessible anywhere—even with basic feature phones

South African networks, like Vodacom and MTN, heavily utilize USSD codes for vital mobile services. For a one-stop overview of USSD codes for all operators, explore the comprehensive listings at ussdcode.co.za/ussd-code/[5].

Network-Specific USSD Codes to Transfer Airtime

Each South African mobile network has its own USSD code for transferring airtime. Here are the key codes for 2025:

Network	USSD Code for Airtime Transfer	Quick Instructions
Vodacom	135072# Or use *135# to access general menu	Follow prompts to specify recipient and amount[1][5].
MTN	1363# Or direct: 1366328RecipientNumberAmount#	Follow menu or use direct code for instant transfer[3][5].
Cell C	*147#	Choose ‘Airtime Transfer’ option and follow prompts.
Telkom	*180#	Select ‘Airtime Transfer’ and enter recipient and amount.
Rain	No USSD option; use Rain’s online dashboard	See Rain support page.

Note: For a full list of USSD codes for all services and networks, refer to Useful USSD Codes to Know in South Africa[5].

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer Airtime (All Networks)

Follow these steps to transfer airtime using USSD codes on the most common networks in South Africa.

Vodacom Airtime Transfer

Open your phone’s dialer and dial *135*072#.
Follow the on-screen prompts: Enter the recipient’s Vodacom number and the amount.
Confirm the transaction.
You and the recipient will both receive SMS confirmations once the transfer succeeds.[1][5]

Alternative methods: Use the Vodacom app or SMS by sending TC [amount] [recipient’s number] to 135 (e.g., TC 10 0821234567 to transfer R10 to 0821234567)[1].

MTN Airtime Transfer

Dial *136*3# from your MTN phone and follow the menu prompts.
For instant transfers: Dial *136*6328*RecipientNumber*Amount# and press call (replace “RecipientNumber” and “Amount” with actual details).[3][5]
Both you and the receiver will get SMS confirmations.

More information about MTN data and airtime sharing can be found at BOSS Revolution’s guide[7].

Cell C Airtime Transfer

Dial *147# and select ‘Airtime Transfer’ from the menu.
Follow prompts to enter recipient’s number and amount.

Telkom Airtime Transfer

Dial *180# and choose the ‘Airtime Transfer’ option.
Enter the recipient’s number and transfer amount, then confirm.

Rain users need to log in to Rain’s online portal since there is currently no USSD option.[5]

Additional Tips for Airtime Transfers

Keep these tips in mind to ensure smooth and successful airtime transfers:

Always double-check the recipient’s phone number before confirming a transfer. Mistakes are hard to reverse.
Monitor your remaining balance to avoid failed transactions.
Note that each operator may have daily limits or restrictions on minimum and maximum transfer amounts.
Confirmation messages are sent after every completed transfer. If you do not receive one, check your transaction or contact customer support.
If USSD does not work, try using the operator’s official app, SMS option, or call customer care for help.

Explore more airtime and USSD tips at ussdcode.co.za’s USSD code to transfer airtime page.

Useful Resources and Internal Links

For further reading and live updates on USSD codes:
– Comprehensive USSD Codes for South Africa
– How to Use USSD Code to Transfer Airtime
– Home of USSD Solutions in South Africa

Authoritative External Resources:
– Vodacom Customer Support
– MTN Help Centre
– Cell C Support
– The South African Government’s Guide to Mobile Services

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I reverse an incorrect airtime transfer?
Unfortunately, most airtime transfers are non-reversible once completed. Contact your network’s customer care immediately, but success is not guaranteed.

Is there a fee for transferring airtime via USSD?
Most networks do not charge a fee for USSD airtime transfers, but check with your operator for up-to-date policy.

Can I transfer airtime from one network to another (e.g., Vodacom to MTN)?
No, airtime transfers are limited to users within the same network.

What is the minimum and maximum airtime transfer amount?
These limits vary by network. Typically, you can transfer from as little as R2 up to as much as R1000 per day, but always confirm with your specific operator.

What should I do if my airtime transfer fails?
Check your balance and ensure you entered the correct code and recipient number. If still unsuccessful, try again or contact customer support.

Can I use USSD codes on any phone?
Yes, USSD codes work on all types of phones—smartphones or basic feature phones.

Where can I find updates on USSD codes or changes?
For the latest updates and comprehensive operator-specific codes, visit ussdcode.co.za.

Sharing airtime is instant, reliable, and accessible—once you know the right USSD code. Keep this guide handy, and explore ussdcode.co.za to master every USSD service available in South Africa in 2025!

Ussd Code To Transfer Airtime