SIM Card Rules in India 2025 : What Every Mobile User Must Know

SIM Card Rules in India 2025 : What Every Mobile User Must Know

In the digital age, a SIM card is more than just a tool for making calls—it is your gateway to mobile banking, internet access, and digital identity. Recognizing this importance, the Indian government has implemented strict SIM card rules to enhance security, prevent fraud, and streamline mobile communication. These rules are enforced by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

Here’s a comprehensive look at the updated SIM card rules in India as of 2025.

1. Eligibility for SIM Card Purchase

Anyone residing in India—Indian citizens, foreign nationals, and businesses—can buy a SIM card after completing mandatory KYC (Know Your Customer) verification.

2. KYC and Activation Process

KYC is compulsory for all new connections:

  • Digital KYC: Aadhaar e-KYC allows instant identity verification.

  • Manual KYC: Requires submitting ID/address proof along with a live photo.

  • Activation Timeline: Prepaid SIMs activate within hours; postpaid may take 24 hours.

3. Limit on Number of SIMs per Person

To curb misuse, DoT limits SIM card ownership:

  • General Limit: 9 SIM cards per user across all operators.

  • Exception Regions: In Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and the North East—only 6 SIMs allowed.

  • Exceeding Limit: Leads to deactivation and possible legal action unless business justification is provided.

4. SIM Verification and Ownership

Every SIM must be linked to the correct user:

  • Name and ID must match official records.

  • Aadhaar linking is optional but widely used.

  • Use the TAFCOP portal (tafcop.dgtelecom.gov.in) to view all SIMs registered under your name and request deactivation of unknown numbers.

5. Mobile Number Portability (MNP) Rules

You can switch telecom operators without changing your number:

  • SIM must be active for 90 days with the current provider.

  • No pending dues (for postpaid).

  • Porting request is processed in 3–5 working days.

  • Send PORT <mobile number> to 1900 via SMS to initiate the process.

6. eSIM Rules in India

eSIMs are becoming popular in smartphones, smartwatches, and wearables:

  • Available from Jio, Airtel, and Vi.

  • Must complete KYC for eSIM activation.

  • Offers same security and rules as physical SIMs.

7. SIM Replacement and Swap Policy

Lost or damaged SIMs can be replaced by:

  • Providing original KYC documents.

  • Observing a mandatory 24-hour waiting period for activation.

  • Extra restrictions apply after replacement to prevent SIM swap fraud.

8. Machine-to-Machine (M2M) SIM Rules

Used in smart devices like:

  • GPS trackers

  • IoT appliances

  • Connected vehicles

These follow separate registration norms under M2M communication, with mandatory KYC for the organization.Official website9. Illegal Use and Penalties

Strict action is taken for:

  • Fake KYC documents

  • Pre-activated SIM sales

  • SIMs in the name of deceased persons

  • Spam, fraud, or criminal activity

Penalties include:

  • Deactivation and blacklisting

  • FIR under cyber laws

  • Ban from acquiring new SIMs

10. Business SIMs and Bulk Connections

Organizations can apply for bulk SIMs with:

  • Company registration

  • Authorized signatory details

  • Employee-wise user mapping

These should not be used for personal purposes.

11. Inactive SIM Policy

  • Most operators deactivate SIMs after 90 days of inactivity.

  • Users must make a call, recharge, or use data periodically.

  • Reactivation is rarely possible; numbers may be reassigned.

12. Rules for Tourists and International Use

  • Foreigners can get tourist SIMs valid for 90 days.

  • International roaming SIMs require fresh KYC and are subject to separate tariffs.

Conclusion

India’s SIM card rules are designed to safeguard mobile users and the digital ecosystem. By adhering to these regulations—whether you’re a local resident, tourist, or enterprise—you ensure secure and uninterrupted mobile services.

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