Planning a trip to India in 2025? Getting a local SIM card will save you from expensive international roaming and provide fast 4G/5G data. Here's an easy step-by-step guide for foreigners to get a SIM card hassle-free.
Can Foreigners Buy an Indian SIM Card?
Yes! As a foreign tourist, business traveler, or expat, you can get an Indian SIM card. But you'll need to provide specific documents for verification.
Best SIM Card Providers in India (2025 Updated)
Jio and Airtel are the best choices for fast 5G and reliable connectivity across India.
Where to Buy an Indian SIM Card?
Foreigners can buy SIM cards at:
Airport SIM kiosks (Instant activation, but slightly expensive)
Official stores of Jio, Airtel, or Vi (Best for regular prices and plans)
Retail shops in major cities (Availability varies)
Avoid buying from unauthorized vendors as they might sell unregistered or inactive SIMs.
Documents Required for a SIM Card as a Foreigner
To get an Indian SIM card, you need to provide:
✔ Passport (Photocopy & Original for Verification)
✔ Indian Visa (Tourist, Business, or other valid visa)
✔ Passport-sized photo
✔ Indian Address Proof (Hotel booking confirmation often works)
Some stores may ask for a local reference (like a hotel contact), but this isn’t always required.
How Long Does It Take to Activate?
Airport SIMs: 30-60 minutes (fastest option).
City SIMs: 4 to 24 hours (after verification).
Verification Call: You’ll need to call 59059 (Jio & Airtel) to activate your SIM.
Best SIM Card Plans for Tourists in 2025
Jio’s ₹799 pack is the best value for tourists, offering fast 5G, unlimited calls, and nationwide coverage.
Can You Get an eSIM in India as a Foreigner?
Yes, but only with Airtel & Jio.
However, many stores still require you to get a physical SIM first before converting it to an eSIM. Airport kiosks and main stores can assist with this process.
Final Tips for Hassle-Free SIM Activation
Buy from an official store for reliability.
Keep a photocopy of your passport & visa ready.
Use an international roaming SIM for emergency calls before activation.
Recharge your SIM using Google Pay, Paytm, or at local shops.
️ Have you bought an Indian SIM card as a foreigner? Share your experience below! If you have questions, feel free to ask. Happy travels!
Can Foreigners Buy an Indian SIM Card? Yes! As a foreign tourist, business traveler, or expat, you can get an Indian SIM card. But you'll need to provide specific documents for verification. Best SIM Card Providers in India (2025 Updated)| Provider | Best For | Network Coverage | 5G Available? |
| Jio | Cheapest data plans | Excellent | Yes |
| Airtel | Best overall network | Excellent | Yes |
| Vi (Vodafone-Idea) | Good in cities, cheap voice calls | Moderate |  No |
Jio and Airtel are the best choices for fast 5G and reliable connectivity across India.
Where to Buy an Indian SIM Card?Foreigners can buy SIM cards at:
Airport SIM kiosks (Instant activation, but slightly expensive)
Official stores of Jio, Airtel, or Vi (Best for regular prices and plans)
Retail shops in major cities (Availability varies)
Avoid buying from unauthorized vendors as they might sell unregistered or inactive SIMs.
Documents Required for a SIM Card as a ForeignerTo get an Indian SIM card, you need to provide:
✔ Passport (Photocopy & Original for Verification)
✔ Indian Visa (Tourist, Business, or other valid visa)
✔ Passport-sized photo
✔ Indian Address Proof (Hotel booking confirmation often works)
Some stores may ask for a local reference (like a hotel contact), but this isn’t always required.
How Long Does It Take to Activate? Airport SIMs: 30-60 minutes (fastest option). City SIMs: 4 to 24 hours (after verification).Verification Call: You’ll need to call 59059 (Jio & Airtel) to activate your SIM.
Best SIM Card Plans for Tourists in 2025| Provider | Plan Name | Data & Calls | Validity | Price (INR) |
| Jio | ₹799 Tourist Pack | 2GB/day + Unlimited Calls | 30 Days | ₹799 ($10) |
| Airtel | ₹999 Travel SIM | 3GB/day + Free Intl. Calls | 30 Days | ₹999 ($12) |
| Vi | ₹599 Basic Pack | 1.5GB/day + Local Calls | 28 Days | ₹599 (~$7) |
Jio’s ₹799 pack is the best value for tourists, offering fast 5G, unlimited calls, and nationwide coverage.
Can You Get an eSIM in India as a Foreigner? Yes, but only with Airtel & Jio.However, many stores still require you to get a physical SIM first before converting it to an eSIM. Airport kiosks and main stores can assist with this process.
Final Tips for Hassle-Free SIM Activation
Buy from an official store for reliability.
Keep a photocopy of your passport & visa ready.
Use an international roaming SIM for emergency calls before activation.
Recharge your SIM using Google Pay, Paytm, or at local shops.
️ Have you bought an Indian SIM card as a foreigner? Share your experience below! If you have questions, feel free to ask. Happy travels!
