How to borrow airtime and data on MTN and Airtel Uganda

Quick answer

MTN: dial *146#. Airtel: dial *155#. Paid back (with a small fee) on your next top-up.

Checked 4 November 2026

Run out of airtime with no money on you? Both MTN and Airtel let you borrow and pay back on your next top-up.

MTN XtraTime

  1. Dial *146#
  2. Choose XtraTime (airtime or data)
  3. Pick the amount offered to you

You can borrow from about UGX 250 up to UGX 10,000, depending on how long and how much you've used MTN (usually at least ~3 months of active use). The loan plus a service fee is deducted when you next load airtime.

Airtel airtime loans

  1. Dial *155#
  2. Choose the loan amount

Loans range from about UGX 500 to 10,000 depending on your usage, with a service fee of around 10% deducted on your next recharge.

Tip: if you're not offered a loan, keep using the line regularly and top up often – your limit grows with your usage.

Frequently asked questions

Why can't I borrow airtime on MTN?

You may not have used the line long enough, may have an unpaid loan, or your usage is too low.

Is there a fee for borrowing airtime?

Yes. A service fee is added and deducted with the loan when you recharge.

Fees and codes change. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.

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