How To Activate International Roaming in Airtel

Here is the step-by-step guide for each method:

Method 1: Airtel Thanks App (Recommended)

This is the safest way to ensure the service is actually active before you fly.

Open the Airtel Thanks App.
Tap on “Manage” or look for the “International Roaming” tile on the home screen.
Select the country you are visiting to see the available packs.
For Prepaid: You must buy a specific International Roaming (IR) pack. The service activates automatically once you buy it.
For Postpaid: You can either buy a pack (to save money) or simply toggle the “International Roaming” service ON in the settings if you only want to pay standard rates (which is expensive).

If you don’t have the app or internet access:

Open your messaging app.
Type IRSTART.
Send it to 121.
You will receive a confirmation message telling you that international roaming has been activated.

From India: Call 121 (Toll-free).
From Abroad: Call +91-99100-99100 (This is a dedicated international helpline and is usually toll-free for Airtel customers roaming abroad).

Buying the pack or activating the service is not enough. You must also change a setting in your phone for the internet to work abroad:

Go to Settings > Mobile Networks (or Cellular).
Select your Airtel SIM.
Turn ON “Data Roaming”. (Note: Keep this OFF if you haven’t bought a pack and don’t want to be charged for background data.)

Prepaid Users: International Roaming will NOT work unless you buy a specific pack (starting from around ₹649/day). Standard talktime balance usually cannot be used for roaming in most countries.
Postpaid Users: You can technically use roaming without a pack (using “Standard Rates”), but this is dangerous as bills can run into thousands of rupees very quickly. It is highly recommended to buy a “Roam Abroad” pack.