Network License in India
Set up and operate telecom or broadcasting services in India with Tax Pal Solutions. Get expert guidance for filing, compliance, and approvals for your Network License.
What is a Network License?
A Network License is an official authorization from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Ministry of Communications. It allows your business to:
- Establish and run telecom or broadcasting services
- Define your service area and operational scope
- Comply with technical, legal, and financial regulations
- This license is mandatory to legally provide telecom, internet, or broadcasting services in India.
Types of Network Licenses
| License Type | Issuing Authority | Scope & Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Telecom License | DoT | Voice, data, broadband, mobile services; sub-categories include Access Service, ISP, VNO |
| WPC License | Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing | For devices using radio frequencies; ensures safe spectrum use |
| Broadcasting License | Ministry of Information & Broadcasting | TV, FM radio, DTH; covers uplinking/downlinking, cable distribution |
| Unified License (UL) | DoT | Multi-service telecom license: long-distance, mobile, internet services |
| ISP License | DoT | Internet services for homes, offices, and businesses; Class A/B/C categories |
| VNO License | DoT | Virtual network operators renting existing infrastructure; niche/mobile services |
Role of Government Bodies
- Department of Telecommunications (DoT): Issues telecom and unified licenses
- WPC Wing: Manages spectrum allocation and wireless compliance
- Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB): Regulates TV, radio, and content distribution
- TRAI: Sets tariffs, monitors QoS, and protects consumer rights
Why Your Business Needs a Network License
- Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties, seizures, or imprisonment
- Trust & Credibility: Shows customers your services are legitimate and reliable
- Market Expansion: Legally expand telecom or broadcast services
- Data & Content Protection: Safeguards your business assets and customer information
How to Get a Network License
Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Must be an Indian company under Companies Act, 2013
- Financial Criteria:
- Category A: Net worth ₹7.5 Cr, Paid-up capital ₹2.5 Cr
- Category B: Net worth ₹2.5 Cr, Paid-up capital ₹50 Lakh
- Category C: Net worth ₹30 Lakh, Paid-up capital ₹10 Lakh
- FDI: Up to 49% automatic, above 49% requires approval
Step 2: Prepare Documents
- Foundational: Certificate of Incorporation, MoA/AoA, PAN, Board Resolution, Power of Attorney
- Technical & Financial: RF test reports, net worth certificates, network rollout plan, traffic forecasts, business plan, compliance undertaking, bank guarantees
Step 3: Apply Online
- Portal: SARALSANCHAR
- Upload documents, submit application, pay fees
Step 4: LOI to Final Approval
- Receive Letter of Intent (LOI)
- Submit bank guarantees & entry fees
- Full license granted after verification (2–6 months)
Documents Required
| Document Type | Key Documents |
|---|---|
| Foundational | Certificate of Incorporation, MoA & AoA, PAN, Directors & Shareholders list, PoA, Board Resolution, Auditor’s Certificate, FDI approvals (if applicable), ITR/Tax Clearance |
| Technical | RF Test Report, Equipment Specs, Network Rollout Plan, Traffic Forecasts |
| Financial | Net Worth Certificate, Paid-up Capital, Bank Guarantees (PBG & FBG) |
| Broadcasting | Letter of Intent from MIB |
Products & Services Covered
- Mobile & Internet Services (Voice, SMS, Data, 5G)
- Enterprise Solutions & Cloud Services (VPNs, leased lines)
- IoT & M2M Communication
- Broadcasting & Content Distribution
Network License Certificate
- Issued by DoT after approval
- Confirms legal authorization, license type, number, operation area, and validity
- Required for:
- Starting operations as ISP/VNO
- Applying for IP addresses & ASNs
- Participating in government tenders
- Partnering with telecom infrastructure providers
- Regulatory compliance audits
How to Download
- Visit SARALSANCHAR Portal
- Log in with credentials
- Go to My Applications
- Select license and Download PDF
- Store digitally and keep printed copies
Certification
