In India, SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards are crucial for mobile communication, internet access, and various online services. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) have established strict rules and guidelines to govern the issuance, use, and regulation of SIM cards. These rules are designed to enhance national security, prevent misuse, and ensure transparency in telecom services.
This article explains in detail the SIM card rules in India as of 2025, covering key areas like documentation, verification, number of SIMs per user, porting, penalties for misuse, and the use of eSIMs.
1. Who Can Buy a SIM Card in India?
Any Indian citizen, foreign national, or organization can buy a SIM card in India, provided they comply with KYC (Know Your Customer) norms. However, different rules apply based on the user type:
a. Indian Citizens
- Must provide Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License.
- Biometric authentication through Aadhaar is commonly used for instant activation.
b. Foreign Nationals
- Need to provide passport, visa, and proof of local stay (hotel booking or local reference).
- SIMs are typically valid for the visa duration or 90 days (whichever is earlier).
c. Minors
- Individuals below 18 years cannot register SIMs in their name.
- Parents or guardians must take responsibility for the SIM used by minors.
2. KYC Norms and SIM Activation
KYC is mandatory for all telecom subscribers. As per DoT guidelines:
- Digital KYC is allowed using Aadhaar e-KYC, where customer details are fetched online.
- For manual KYC, copies of identity and address proof must be submitted along with a live photo.
- All information is verified before the SIM is activated.
Timeframe for Activation:
- Prepaid SIMs: Usually activated within a few hours after KYC.
- Postpaid SIMs: Activation may take up to 24 hours due to additional verification.
3. Maximum Number of SIMs per Individual
To prevent misuse, the DoT has set a limit on the number of SIM cards that a person can hold:
- Up to 9 SIM cards are allowed per individual across all operators.
- For Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and North East, the limit is 6 SIM cards per person.
- If more are needed (e.g., for business), the user must justify their need and get approval.
If a person exceeds this limit:
- Extra SIMs are deactivated automatically.
- The user may face penalty or legal action for violation.
4. SIM Ownership Verification and Linking
To ensure transparency, every SIM card must be linked with:
- Correct name of the owner
- Valid identity proof
- Aadhaar number (optional but widely used)
Telecom operators have created online tools to check if SIMs are linked to your ID. For example:
- The TAFCOP portal (https://tafcop.dgtelecom.gov.in) lets users check all mobile numbers issued in their name.
If users find unknown numbers linked to their ID, they can:
- Request for deactivation
- File a complaint with DoT or the service provider
5. Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Rules
Users can change their telecom operator without changing their number using Mobile Number Portability (MNP):
Rules for MNP:
- SIM must be active for at least 90 days with the current operator.
- No outstanding dues in the case of postpaid connections.
- Port request is completed in 3 working days (or 5 days in J&K, Assam, NE).
- Porting fee is nominal or waived off in most cases.
Users initiate porting by sending an SMS:PORT <10-digit mobile number> to 1900.
6. eSIM (Embedded SIM) Rules in India
With the rise in digital devices, eSIM technology is now supported in India:
- eSIMs are available with operators like Jio, Airtel, and Vi.
- Users must complete eKYC and get eSIM profile downloaded on their devices (smartphones, wearables).
- eSIMs are as secure as physical SIMs and follow the same verification rules.
7. Rules for SIM Card Replacement and Swapping
If a user loses their SIM or changes phones, a SIM swap or replacement is needed:
- Original KYC details must match.
- A waiting period of 24 hours is usually required to activate the new SIM.
- For high-value transactions (e.g., banking), restrictions apply after SIM replacement to prevent fraud.
This rule is crucial in preventing SIM swap fraud, where scammers try to gain control of someone’s phone number.
8. Using SIM Cards for Internet of Things (IoT) Devices
As IoT devices grow, SIMs are also used in:
- GPS trackers
- Smart watches
- Cars and industrial devices
These SIMs are governed by Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication rules:
- KYC is required for the organization/person installing the SIM.
- Telecom providers must register M2M SIMs under a separate service class.
9. Illegal Use and Blacklisting
Illegal practices like:
- Using SIMs with fake documents
- Selling pre-activated SIMs
- Issuing SIMs in the name of dead persons
- Using SIMs for spam, cybercrime, or scams
Are strictly punishable.
Penalties include:
- Deactivation of the SIM
- Blacklisting of the user from buying new SIMs
- Filing of FIRs under cybercrime laws
Telecom operators also share databases to prevent repeat offenders from acquiring new SIMs.
10. SIM Card for Business Use
Businesses and organizations can take bulk SIM connections by providing:
- Company registration documents
- Authorized signatory details
- Employee ID proof for user allocation
These SIMs must not be sold or used for personal purposes.
11. SIM Card Expiry and Reactivation Rules
If a SIM is inactive for a long time, it may be deactivated.
Inactivity Period:
- Most operators deactivate SIMs if there is no usage for 90 days.
- Users must recharge, make calls, or use data to keep SIMs active.
Reactivation:
- Deactivated numbers may be reissued to new users after a grace period.
- Reacquisition of the same number may not be possible.
12. International SIM Card Rules
For Indians traveling abroad:
- SIMs can be converted to international roaming SIMs after KYC.
- Charges are applicable as per international plans.
For foreign tourists:
- SIMs are issued for limited periods.
- Re-verification is needed for extension beyond 90 days.
Conclusion
India’s SIM card rules are among the most stringent globally, aimed at safeguarding users, ensuring transparency, and preventing digital and financial crimes. Whether you are a regular mobile user, a business, or a foreign visitor, complying with these guidelines is essential to enjoy uninterrupted telecom services.
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