Where to buy a SIM card when you land in India
- Kiosks at the airport: These counters are usually located right after you clear customs. For the most part, if you have the above documents in order, you should be able to get your card in fifteen to twenty minutes after you fill out the required documentation.
- Local cellphone dealer: You might get some reluctance from shopkeepers due to new government regulation that puts a 3 month limit on prepaid SIM connectivity for foreign visitors to India. The procedure for activation is similar to the earlier option.
Documentation Required to buy a SIM Card
The Government of India tightened regulations on the sale of prepaid SIM cards to foreigners after November 2012. Therefore, you need to provide the following documents along with the application form:
- Two color passport photographs.
- A photocopy of the personal details page of your passport, along with the original passport for verification.
- A photocopy of your Indian visa, along with the original visa for verification.
- A photocopy of proof of your home address in your country of residence, such as a passport, driver’s license, or any other government-issued document. Bring the original document for verification.
- Proof of your accommodation in India, such as a letter from your hotel confirming your stay.
Popular mobile networks in India:
- Airtel: Known for good coverage in metropolitan areas.
- Vodafone: Offers reliable coverage in major cities.
- Reliance: Provides both 3G and 4G services.
- BSNL and MTNL: State-owned providers, often better in remote areas.
The cost of a SIM card is approximately INR 350.00, with a validity of three months.
How to make calls using your new prepaid SIM card:
- For international calls, dial the country code, area code, and phone number.
- For calls to local fixed lines in India, dial the city/area code followed by the number.
- For calls to local mobile numbers within the same area, dial the 10-digit mobile number without the prefix ‘0’.
- For calls to mobile numbers in another area, dial ‘0’ followed by the 10-digit mobile number.
Note: The information mentioned above will be updated if there is any change in the regulations by the Government of India.