Running out of data can be frustrating, especially during an important video call, a mobile payment, or while watching your favorite reel. If you’re an Airtel prepaid user, there’s good news — Airtel Data Loan allows you to instantly borrow 1GB of data, helping you stay connected when your daily quota hits zero.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get a 1GB Airtel data loan, the charges, validity, eligibility, and why it can be a game-changing feature when you’re in a pinch.

What Is Airtel Data Loan and How Does It Work?
Airtel Data Loan is a short-term emergency data service offered to Airtel prepaid users. It lets eligible customers instantly borrow 1GB of data, which is valid until 11:59 PM on the same day. There’s no upfront payment required. Instead, the cost of the data is deducted automatically from your next Airtel recharge.
This feature is especially useful if you’ve exhausted your data pack and urgently need access to the internet without immediately purchasing a new plan.
Eligibility Criteria for Airtel Data Loan
Before applying, ensure you meet the following requirements:
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Must be an Airtel prepaid user.
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Should have used the SIM for at least 3 months.
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Should have a history of regular recharges.
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Must not have an existing unpaid data loan.
Benefits of Airtel Data Loan
Instant Access to Data
No waiting time — data is credited immediately after request.
Flexible Repayment
No payment at the time of the loan; it gets auto-deducted from your next recharge.
Works on Any Phone
Both smartphone and basic phone users can avail of the service.
No Internet Required (via USSD)
Even if you’re offline, you can activate the loan using a USSD code.
No Commitment to Full Plan
You don’t need to buy an entire data pack — borrow just what you need.
How to Apply for Airtel 1GB Data Loan
There are two easy ways to avail the Airtel data loan — via the Airtel Thanks App or USSD code.
Method 1: Using Airtel Thanks App
If you’re using a smartphone, this is the simplest method:
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Open the Airtel Thanks app (download from Play Store or App Store if not installed).
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Tap on the search bar at the top and type “Data Loan”.
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A 1GB loan option will appear with a “Get Now” button.
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Tap to confirm. That’s it — no OTP, no delay.
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Your data balance is updated instantly with 1GB added.
✅ Pro Tip: This method is the fastest and gives you a visual confirmation of your new balance.
Method 2: Using USSD Code (Offline Method)
If you’re using a basic phone or can’t access the internet:
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Open your phone’s dialer.
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Dial
*567*3#
from your Airtel number. -
Select the option to “Take Data Loan”.
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Confirm your request by following the on-screen prompts.
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You’ll receive a message confirming that 1GB has been credited.
📴 This method works even when you have no internet connection at all.
Charges for Airtel Data Loan
While Airtel doesn’t charge you upfront for the loan, you must repay it with your next recharge. The exact deduction is not always displayed transparently in a popup or SMS, but users typically report a charge of ₹25 for 1GB.
Key Points:
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The loan is deducted automatically during your next top-up.
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You cannot request another loan until the previous one is cleared.
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The borrowed data is valid only for that day.
Validity and Limitations
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The 1GB data loan is valid until 11:59 PM on the day of request.
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Unused data does not carry forward to the next day.
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It is recommended to take the loan only when you know you will use it immediately.
Why You Should Consider Airtel Data Loan
If you’ve ever found yourself stuck without data and urgently needed to book a cab, send a file, or even just finish a reel — this is the perfect safety net. With no waiting, no need for an immediate recharge, and complete flexibility, Airtel’s data loan is a lifesaver in emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. What is the Airtel data loan USSD code?
To get a 1GB data loan via USSD, dial *567*3#
from your Airtel number and follow the prompts.
Q2. How much does Airtel charge for 1GB loan?
The cost is around ₹25, which is deducted from your next recharge automatically.
Q3. Can I take another data loan if I haven’t paid back the first one?
No, you must repay your existing data loan before taking a new one.
Q4. What happens if I don’t recharge after taking the data loan?
The loan amount remains pending and will be deducted from your next successful recharge.
Q5. Will the unused data roll over to the next day?
No, the 1GB loan is valid only until 11:59 PM on the day it is taken.
Q6. Can postpaid users take Airtel data loan?
No, this feature is available only for Airtel prepaid customers.