Examining the Socio-Economic Impact of Airtime Transfers on Migrant Communities

Airtime top-up transfers have emerged as a critical yet underexplored component of international remittance systems, offering migrants a cost-effective and accessible method to support their families and maintain communication across borders. This study investigates the role of international airtime top-up transfers in migration and mobility, focusing on their socio-economic impact, challenges, and benefits. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys of 500 migrant workers, interviews with 30 migrants and 15 service providers, and analysis of secondary data from telecom companies, the study reveals that airtime transfers are predominantly used for maintaining communication, with a secondary function as a small-scale remittance mechanism. Despite their advantages, challenges such as high transaction fees and limited infrastructure persist, particularly in rural and low-income migrant communities. The findings suggest that airtime top-up services significantly contribute to migrants' financial inclusion and social integration, enabling both familial support and access to broader financial systems. This research contributes to the literature on migration, remittances, and mobile technology by highlighting the growing role of airtime transfers in global mobility and suggesting ways to enhance their effectiveness for migrant communities worldwide.