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MTN Call Forwarding Codes and Setup Guide |
Learn MTN call forwarding codes, activation methods, cancellation steps, and setup options for busy, unreachable, and unanswered calls.
Missing important calls can be frustrating, especially when your phone is switched off, out of network coverage, busy, or unavailable. Fortunately, MTN subscribers can solve this problem using call forwarding, a feature that automatically redirects incoming calls to another phone number.
Whether you're traveling, using multiple phones, managing a business line, or simply want to ensure you never miss important calls, understanding MTN call forwarding codes and setup procedures can help you stay connected.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about MTN call forwarding, including activation codes, deactivation methods, different forwarding types, troubleshooting tips, benefits, and frequently asked questions.
What Is MTN Call Forwarding?
Call forwarding, sometimes called call diversion, is a network service that redirects incoming calls from your MTN number to another mobile or landline number.
Instead of callers hearing a busy tone or voicemail, their calls are automatically transferred to the designated number.
For example:
- Forward calls from your MTN line to a second phone.
- Redirect business calls to your office number.
- Send calls to a family member when you're unavailable.
- Forward calls while traveling internationally.
The service operates directly through the MTN network, meaning it continues to work even if your phone is switched off in certain forwarding scenarios.
How MTN Call Forwarding Works
When someone calls your MTN number, the network checks whether call forwarding is active.
Depending on your settings, the call may be redirected when:
- Your phone is busy.
- Your phone is switched off.
- Your phone is unreachable.
- You do not answer.
- You want all calls redirected immediately.
The caller usually won't notice any difference except that the call reaches the alternative number.
Types of MTN Call Forwarding
MTN supports several call forwarding options designed for different situations.
1. Unconditional Call Forwarding
This redirects every incoming call immediately.
Use this when:
- You want all calls sent to another number.
- You're temporarily using a different phone.
- You're traveling abroad.
2. Forward When Busy
Calls are redirected only when you're already on another call.
This is useful for:
- Business owners
- Customer service agents
- Professionals handling multiple calls
3. Forward When Unanswered
Calls are redirected if you do not answer within a specific time.
Ideal for:
- Busy schedules
- Meetings
- Driving
- Working hours
4. Forward When Unreachable
Calls are redirected when:
- Your phone is switched off.
- You're outside network coverage.
- The battery is dead.
This ensures important callers can still reach you.
MTN Call Forwarding Codes
The following codes are commonly used for call forwarding.
| Function | Activation Code |
|---|---|
| Forward all calls | **21*Number# |
| Forward when busy | **67*Number# |
| Forward when unanswered | **61*Number# |
| Forward when unreachable | **62*Number# |
| Cancel all forwarding | ##002# |
| Check forwarding status | *#21# |
Replace "Number" with the destination phone number.
Example:
**21*08012345678#
This forwards all incoming calls to 08012345678.
How to Activate MTN Call Forwarding
Method 1: Using USSD Codes
This is the fastest and most reliable method.
To Forward All Calls
Dial:
**21*DestinationNumber#
Example:
**21*08012345678#
Press the call button.
A confirmation message should appear.
To Forward Calls When Busy
Dial:
**67*DestinationNumber#
Press call.
MTN will confirm activation.
To Forward Calls When Unanswered
Dial:
**61*DestinationNumber#
Press call.
Calls will redirect after a specified ringing period.
To Forward Calls When Unreachable
Dial:
**62*DestinationNumber#
Press call.
The service activates immediately.
How to Set Up Call Forwarding Through Android
Most Android smartphones allow call forwarding configuration directly from settings.
Steps may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer.
Samsung Devices
- Open Phone app.
- Tap three-dot menu.
- Select Settings.
- Tap Supplementary Services.
- Choose Call Forwarding.
- Select preferred forwarding type.
- Enter destination number.
- Save changes.
Xiaomi Devices
- Open Phone.
- Select Settings.
- Tap Calling Accounts.
- Choose MTN SIM.
- Select Call Forwarding.
- Configure desired option.
Infinix, Tecno, and Itel Phones
- Open Dialer.
- Tap Settings.
- Choose Calling Accounts.
- Select Call Forwarding.
- Enter target number.
- Confirm activation.
How to Set Up Call Forwarding on iPhone
For iPhone users:
- Open Settings.
- Select Phone.
- Tap Call Forwarding.
- Enable Call Forwarding.
- Enter destination number.
- Save settings.
Your MTN line will now redirect calls according to your configuration.
How to Cancel MTN Call Forwarding
Many users forget to disable call forwarding after activating it.
Fortunately, cancellation is simple.
Cancel All Call Forwarding
Dial:
##002#
Press call.
This removes all forwarding settings simultaneously.
Cancel Forward All Calls
Dial:
##21#
Cancel Forward When Busy
Dial:
##67#
Cancel Forward When Unanswered
Dial:
##61#
Cancel Forward When Unreachable
Dial:
##62#
You will receive a confirmation message once deactivation succeeds.
How to Check If Call Forwarding Is Active
If you're unsure whether forwarding is enabled, use these status codes.
Check All Call Forwarding
Dial:
*#21#
Check Busy Forwarding
Dial:
*#67#
Check Unanswered Forwarding
Dial:
*#61#
Check Unreachable Forwarding
Dial:
*#62#
The network will display the current status.
Benefits of Using MTN Call Forwarding
Many subscribers underestimate how useful this feature can be.
Never Miss Important Calls
Call forwarding ensures you remain reachable even when your primary device is unavailable.
Better Business Communication
Entrepreneurs and business owners can redirect calls to assistants, receptionists, or alternative phones.
Improved Customer Service
Businesses can maintain availability outside regular hours.
Travel Convenience
International travelers can forward calls to local numbers.
Emergency Backup
If your phone battery dies, callers can still reach you through a secondary line.
Common MTN Call Forwarding Use Cases
Business Owners
Forward customer inquiries to staff members.
Students
Redirect calls during exams or lectures.
Remote Workers
Switch calls between office and personal devices.
Travelers
Maintain communication while abroad.
Families
Redirect important calls to trusted relatives when unavailable.
Does MTN Charge for Call Forwarding?
Call forwarding itself may not always incur activation charges, but call diversion can generate call costs.
Typically:
- The caller pays for calling your MTN number.
- You may be charged for the forwarded leg of the call depending on the destination number and tariff conditions.
Charges can vary based on:
- Network destination
- Local calls
- International forwarding
- Current MTN policies
Always verify current charges through official MTN customer support before relying heavily on call forwarding.
Common Call Forwarding Problems and Solutions
Call Forwarding Not Activating
Possible causes:
- Incorrect code format
- Network issue
- SIM restrictions
Solution:
- Re-enter the code carefully.
- Restart your phone.
- Try again later.
Calls Not Forwarding
Possible causes:
- Incorrect destination number
- Network congestion
- Feature disabled
Solution:
- Confirm the forwarding number.
- Reactivate the service.
- Check forwarding status.
Destination Number Not Ringing
Possible causes:
- Number unavailable
- Number blocked
- Call restrictions
Solution:
- Test the destination number directly.
- Update forwarding settings.
Error Messages During Setup
Try:
- Resetting network settings.
- Restarting your device.
- Contacting MTN support.
Best Practices for Using MTN Call Forwarding
To maximize effectiveness:
- Regularly verify forwarding settings.
- Use trusted destination numbers.
- Disable forwarding when no longer needed.
- Keep backup numbers active.
- Test forwarding periodically.
These simple habits prevent missed calls and unexpected issues.
Call Forwarding vs Voicemail
Many users confuse these services.
Call Forwarding
- Redirects calls to another number.
- Allows real-time conversations.
- Ideal for business and accessibility.
Voicemail
- Records voice messages.
- Caller leaves a message.
- Requires later retrieval.
Call forwarding is generally better when immediate communication is important.
Security Considerations
Protect your account by:
- Monitoring unexpected forwarding activation.
- Reviewing forwarding status periodically.
- Securing your SIM against unauthorized access.
- Reporting suspicious activity to MTN immediately.
Unauthorized call forwarding can sometimes be used in fraud attempts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the code for MTN call forwarding?
The most common code is:
**21*PhoneNumber#
It forwards all incoming calls.
How do I stop call forwarding on MTN?
Dial:
##002#
This cancels all active call forwarding settings.
Can I forward MTN calls to another network?
Yes. Calls can generally be forwarded to MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile numbers.
Does call forwarding work when my phone is off?
Yes, if you activate forwarding when unreachable.
Can I check whether call forwarding is active?
Yes.
Dial:
*#21#
to check current forwarding status.
Final Thoughts
Call forwarding remains one of the most useful yet underutilized features available to MTN subscribers. Whether you're managing business communications, traveling, using multiple devices, or simply trying to avoid missed calls, the service offers a practical solution for staying connected.
By understanding the correct MTN call forwarding codes, activation methods, cancellation procedures, and troubleshooting steps, you can take full advantage of this feature with confidence. Always verify your forwarding settings periodically and keep security in mind to ensure your calls are redirected only when and where you intend.
If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with friends, family members, or colleagues who use MTN. You can also explore our other MTN tutorials covering SIM management, roaming services, data plans, and network troubleshooting tips.
