Sim Card Limit in India: How Many Can One Purchase and Hold

India has strict regulations regarding the purchase and holding of SIM cards. These rules are in place to prevent misuse and ensure security. Understanding the latest guidelines can help individuals avoid potential issues when obtaining new SIM cards.

Government Regulations

According to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India, an individual can purchase up to nine SIM cards from different operators. The DoT has guided telecom companies to disconnect services for subscribers who own more than nine SIM cards. This measure is designed to curb misuse and fraud.

Maximum SIM Cards per Operator

While an individual can hold a maximum of nine SIM cards across all operators, the specific number of SIM cards that can be purchased from one service provider is limited. Telecom operators can have their own internal policies regarding the issuance of multiple SIMs. Therefore, individuals are advised to check with the specific operator as well.

Starting in 2023, the DoT has increased the limit to 18 connections per user. However, this increase comes with a condition: bulk purchases of SIM cards are automatically prohibited to prevent misuse and fraud. In cases where bulk acquisition is necessary, a more rigorous Know Your Customer (KYC) check becomes mandatory.

How Many SIM Cards Can You Buy?

The maximum number of SIM cards that can be bought is also specified.

Individual SIMs from different operators: An individual can purchase up to nine SIM cards from various operators. Simultaneous purchases: You can buy up to six SIM cards from one service provider and then get the remaining from others.

Verification and Identity

When purchasing a new SIM card, valid proof of address and proof of identity are mandatory. These documents ensure that the SIM card is legally registered and prevent unauthorized use. For bulk purchases, a stringent KYC process must be followed.

Examples and Real-Life Scenarios

Here are a couple of examples to clarify the situation:

Example 1: If you want to buy SIM cards from three different operators (Jio, Idea, and Airtel), you can purchase one SIM from each, totaling three SIMs from one operator and three each from the others. This brings the total to nine SIMs. Example 2: If you already have five SIM cards and try to buy more from the Jio store, the system will show a message indicating that you have exceeded the number of connections allowed. Therefore, you can only buy up to five SIM cards in total. Example 3: According to the latest laws, an individual can have up to 10 connections including all operators. If an operator discovers additional SIM cards beyond this limit, they are required to disconnect the extra numbers.

Conclusion

It's important to adhere to the rules regarding SIM card purchases and holding. The best practice is to check both government guidelines and individual operator policies to ensure compliance. Following these guidelines not only avoids potential issues but also helps in maintaining the integrity and security of the telecommunication network in India.