Archive · 30 Dec 2025
TRAI Proposes Framework for Foreign SIMs in IoT Devices
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has made some important suggestions about using foreign SIM cards in special devices that are made in India but sold in other countries.
These devices are part of the Internet of Things (IoT), which means they can connect to the internet and share data.
TRAI wants to make it easier for Indian companies to use foreign SIM cards in these devices by creating a new rule called 'International M2M SIM Service Authorisation'.
This rule will allow companies to get permission online without paying high fees.
The SIM cards can stay active in India for up to six months for testing.
TRAI thinks this will help Indian companies sell more of these devices abroad while keeping everything safe and following the rules.
TRAI recommended a separate regulatory framework for using foreign SIM/eSIM cards in export-focused IoT devices.
A new category, 'International M2M SIM Service Authorisation', is proposed for Indian entities.
The authorization process will be online with a processing fee of Rs 5,000 and a 10-year validity.
Foreign SIM/eSIM cards can remain active in India for up to six months for testing.
TRAI advises DoT to coordinate with other ministries for a harmonized framework.
- Who
- Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
- What
- Recommendations on using foreign SIM/eSIM cards in export-focused IoT devices
- When
- Tuesday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- India
- Why
- To address regulatory gaps and support exports while ensuring security and compliance
- Organization
- Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
- Request From
- Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications
- New Category
- International M2M SIM Service Authorisation
- Authorization Validity
- 10 years
- Processing Fee
- Rs 5,000
- Testing Period
- 6 months
