How to borrow Airtime from Airtel and payback later

Last Updated on June 12, 2025 by admin

Airtel’s airtime borrowing service offers a convenient solution for users in need of urgent mobile credit without immediate payment. This service is especially beneficial for those who may find themselves in situations where top-up options are limited, such as traveling or at times when physical recharge vouchers are inaccessible.

The telecom provides this service to pre-qualified users, typically based on the frequency and amount of recharge history, ensuring that the credit is extended responsibly.

To borrow airtime from Airtel, eligible customers can initiate the service by dialing a specific USSD code from their mobile device.

Upon qualification, a predetermined amount of airtime is credited to the user’s account almost instantly, allowing them to continue making calls, sending messages, or using data services.

The borrowed amount, however, is not free. Airtel imposes a service fee, which is deducted from the next recharge along with the borrowed amount.

Airtel’s platform ensures a seamless borrowing experience and automatically recovers the loaned airtime from subsequent credit recharges. Users are encouraged to clear the outstanding airtime balance to remain eligible for future borrowing.

How to share and transfer data to another Glo line

Glo EasyShare : How to transfer Airtime from Glo line

MTN Share: How to transfer Airtime to another mtn line

MTN XtraByte: How to borrow data from MTN

Table of Contents

Eligibility and Requirements for Borrowing Airtime from Airtel

To borrow airtime from Airtel Nigeria, you need to meet a few basic eligibility requirements. The service is called Airtel Extra Credit, and here’s what qualifies you:

Registered Airtel SIM: Your SIM must be properly registered with Airtel.
Active for at least 2–3 months: You need to have used your line consistently for at least 60–90 days
Minimum Monthly Recharge: You should recharge at least ₦200–₦250 per month to qualify
No Outstanding Loans: You must repay any previous borrowed airtime before you can borrow again.
Consistent Usage: Airtel considers your average spend and recharge frequency when determining your loan limit

Pay attension: How to check Airtel data and Airtime balance

How to borrow airtime on Airtel

If you find yourself in need of airtime but are unable to recharge immediately, Airtel provides a convenient service that allows you to borrow airtime and pay it back later. To borrow airtime from Airtel, you must first ensure that you meet certain eligibility criteria. Typically, you need to be a prepaid customer, have been active on the Airtel network for a certain period, and have a good usage history.

To borrow airtime on Airtel Nigeria, you can use their Extra Credit service—super handy when you’re low on balance and need to make a quick call or send a message. Here’s how to do it:

Dial *303# on your Airtel line.
Select “Borrow Airtime” from the menu.
Choose the amount you want to borrow.
Confirm the transaction.

Or use the shortcut: *303*Amount# Example: *303*100# to borrow ₦100.

Also read: Airtel me2u: How to transfer airtime from airtel to another airtel line

How to check your Airtel airtime account balance

To check your Airtel airtime balance in Nigeria, you’ve got a few easy options:

1. USSD Code (Quickest Method)

Dial *310# on your Airtel line.
Your airtime balance will appear on your screen instantly.
You’ll also receive a confirmation SMS.

This code is part of the harmonized shortcodes introduced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and it works across all networks.

2 My Airtel Africa App

Download the My Airtel Africa app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Log in with your Airtel number.
Your airtime balance will be displayed on the home screen.

3. Call Customer Care

Dial 300 from your Airtel line.
Follow the voice prompts to check your balance or speak with an agent.

Read: List of Airtel Data Plans, Bundles & Subscription Code

How to Repay Borrowed Airtel Airtime

Repaying borrowed airtime on Airtel Nigeria is automatic and super straightforward—no extra steps needed from you!

When you recharge your line, Airtel will automatically deduct the amount you borrowed plus a service fee.

For example, if you borrowed ₦100, Airtel will deduct ₦115 (₦100 + 15% fee) from your next recharge.

Pay attention: Airtel Data Share & Gifting: How to share and transfer data

Can I transfer borrowed Airtime to another Airtel user?

No, you can’t transfer borrowed airtime on Airtel to another user. Borrowed airtime—obtained through Airtel’s Extra Credit service—is strictly for personal use and is non-transferable.

However, if you have regular airtime (that you recharged yourself you can transfer that

Conclusion

In conclusion, borrowing airtime from Airtel and paying it back later is a convenient and practical option for customers in need of airtime. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can borrow airtime from Airtel quickly and easily.

So, the next time you find yourself in need of airtime, consider borrowing from Airtel and enjoy uninterrupted communication with your loved ones.

Author
Recent Posts

admin

Meet Ogbeide Frank, also known as Perere, a blogger passionate about writing on finance and tech. He studied Business Administration from Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma and Mobile Communication at Orange College in Malaysia. Frank has experience working as a banker and consultant for various agencies in Nigeria.