All MTN ShortCodes/USSD Codes (2025)

MTN short codes and USSD codes unlock various services. South African customers looking to get the most out of their mobile experience need to know them, These codes are powerful tools that offer direct access to a wide range of services—without needing an app, data connection, or even speaking to a customer service rep.

Whether you want to check your balance, recharge airtime, buy data bundles, block your SIM, or activate roaming, there’s a simple code for that. Think of them as cheat codes to navigate your telecom life faster.

In this blog post, we’ll unpack the entire universe of MTN South Africa’s short codes and USSD services—what they do, how to use them, and why they can make your mobile life far more efficient.

All MTN USSD ShortCodes

What Are USSD Codes, Anyway?

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes are sequences you dial into your phone that communicate directly with your mobile network. Think of them as shortcuts: you don’t need to log into any website or download an app. Just dial a combination like 136# and you can instantly check your airtime balance. Most USSD codes begin with an asterisk () and end with a hash (#), and they’re designed to work across all types of phones—smartphones and basic feature phones alike.

These codes are especially useful in places like South Africa, where not everyone has regular access to high-speed data or advanced devices. They’re quick, lightweight, and accessible from nearly every handset on the market.

Why MTN South Africa USSD Codes Matter

MTN is one of South Africa’s leading mobile networks, offering prepaid and postpaid services to millions of users across the country. As part of its commitment to convenience, MTN has streamlined most of its customer service and transaction options into USSD codes. You can manage your account, buy bundles, share airtime, request callbacks, activate roaming, and more without leaving your dial pad.

But here’s the catch: many users don’t know what codes are available—or how powerful they actually are. That’s where this guide comes in.

The Core USSD Codes You’ll Use Often

Let’s start with the most practical, everyday codes for basic account management:

*136# – This is your go-to menu. It helps you check balances, access bundle deals, and manage subscriptions.
*123# – Need to set up your phone or troubleshoot device settings? This is your one-stop solution.
*#06# – Want to know your phone’s IMEI number (useful for blacklisting or warranty purposes)? This code instantly displays it.
*135# – Used for accessing international voicemail and call services, particularly useful when traveling.

These USSD codes are the backbone of managing your MTN account.

Airtime, Data, and Bundle Services Made Easy

Buying airtime or data has never been easier. MTN offers multiple channels via USSD to suit every situation:

1362# – Use this to buy voice bundles, SMS bundles, and promotional packages.
1363# – Me2U lets you transfer airtime or data to another MTN number—a convenient way to support friends or family.
141(voucher number)*(recipient number)# – This one’s for Me4U, used to recharge someone else’s number using a prepaid voucher.
127(number)# – Pay4Me enables you to initiate a reverse-billed call, where the recipient pays the call cost.
1511# – If you’re out of airtime, XtraTime provides an emergency advance you can repay later.
120151# – XtraTime also works for non-MTN customers with this alternative code.

These are excellent tools for staying connected—even if you’re low on funds or helping out someone else.

SIM Management and Call Routing

Your SIM card is more than a chip—it’s your access pass to the network. Here’s how you control and protect it:

1267927# – If your phone’s stolen or damaged, SIM Swap helps you move your number to a new SIM.
*61(number)# – This code lets you divert unanswered calls to another number. It’s perfect for busy professionals or people with multiple devices.
##61# – Want to cancel that divert? This code reverts it back to your primary number.
05PUKNew PIN*New PIN# – If your phone is blocked and you need to reset it using your PUK (Personal Unblocking Key), this is the code to use.
121(number)# – Need someone to call you but you’re out of airtime? Send a CallBack request using this handy short code.
*100# – Enables missed call notifications, ideal for staying in the loop when network issues arise.

These features make sure your SIM and voice services are always optimized for your personal setup.

Recharge Options Through Banks

You don’t have to rely on scratch cards anymore. MTN partners with major South African banks to enable mobile top-ups directly through USSD:

1202272# – Recharge via Absa.
1203279# – Recharge via Capitec.
120321# – Recharge via FNB.
120001# – Recharge via Nedbank.
1202345# – Recharge via Standard Bank.

This collaboration between telecom and banking services offers seamless, safe, and efficient top-ups that are accessible even when you don’t have cash or a store nearby.

Roaming and International Services

For those who travel frequently or need global connectivity, MTN makes it easy to access international services:

*135# – Activate prepaid data roaming.
*141# – Check your roaming balance to keep track of international data use.
1111# – View roaming rates, so you’re not caught off guard by high charges.
13514# – Activate or manage SMS roaming.

These codes are invaluable tools for globe-trotters who still want to manage their accounts on the go.

Entertainment, Loyalty & Promotions

MTN’s services extend beyond the basics—there are plenty of lifestyle extras and rewards:

*234# – MyMTN YelloBucks: earn and spend loyalty points.
1369# – MTN Loyalty Program access for exclusive offers.
1362*255# – Cliq5 for group bundles and promotions.
1362*776# – MTN Promo codes for time-limited deals.
*156# – Scratch & Win games for entertainment and rewards.
*123# – MTN Play Menu for downloading music, videos, or games.
*124# – Betal Labs, an experimental platform for early access to new features.

These codes turn your mobile experience into something more interactive, offering savings, entertainment, and discovery.

Self-Service Short Codes

If you’re all about managing things yourself, MTN’s self-service codes put everything in your control:

*136# – The master menu for all general MTN services.
*162# – Help for contract customers.
*173# – Help for prepaid users.
*175# – Zone deal notifications and localised offers.
*411# – Pulse bundles designed for youthful users.
*131# – RICA your SIM card for regulatory compliance.
*142# – Personalized offers tailored to your usage pattern.
*143# – Social media bundle deals.
*144# – Sponsorship and event activations.
*151# – Financial services including insurance and savings.
*155# – Digital subscriptions and streaming services.

These let you manage almost every aspect of your account without needing customer support.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of MTN’s Codes

Bookmark your favorites. Save frequently used codes to your contacts for one-touch access.
Use them offline. Most USSD codes work without data or Wi-Fi, making them perfect for emergency use or areas with low connectivity.
Combine services. Many codes work together—for example, use 1511# to borrow airtime and 1362# to use it for a data bundle.
Watch your usage. Monitor your balances regularly with *136# and 1361# to avoid surprises.

A Glimpse into the Future

With telecom evolving rapidly, MTN may soon expand USSD codes to include more features—like personalized data packages based on real-time usage, or AI-driven customer service flows embedded in USSD. As smart services become more accessible, users can expect enhanced convenience without sacrificing the low-tech simplicity that USSD provides.

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Conclusion:

USSD codes are more than just technical tools—they’re empowering features that give you control over your mobile experience. For MTN South Africa users, they offer instant access to data, voice bundles, financial tools, entertainment platforms, and customer support. Knowing these codes isn’t just smart—it’s essential to make the most of what your network can offer.

From sharing airtime with a friend to managing business calls on the go, these short codes make life smoother. Whether you’re a tech-savvy entrepreneur, a student budgeting airtime, or a frequent traveler juggling roaming charges, there’s a code to make your day simpler and your connection stronger.

So go ahead—explore them, use them, master them. Your phone isn’t just a device—it’s a gateway. And these codes are your keys.