New SIM Card Rules 2025: How Long Will Your Jio or Airtel SIM Stay Active Without Recharge?

New Delhi If you’ve ever skipped a recharge for a few days or even weeks, wondering how long your Jio or Airtel SIM will stay active, you’re not alone. Both telecom giants have recently updated their SIM deactivation policies based on TRAI guidelines, and knowing these rules is crucial to avoid losing your mobile number.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the latest rules from Jio and Airtel, and what you need to do to keep your number safe.

Jio SIM Card Rules (2025 Update)

• Outgoing Calls: Will stop after 7 days of plan expiry

• Incoming Calls: Will continue up to 90 days from expiry

• Deactivation: Jio will deactivate your number after 90 days of zero recharge or usage

• Warning SMS: Sent before the SIM is disconnected permanently

Tip: Even if incoming calls are working, your SIM could still be at risk. A recharge within 90 days is essential.

Airtel SIM Card Rules (2025 Update)

• Outgoing Calls: Allowed for up to 15 days after plan expiry

• Incoming Calls: Continue for 60 to 90 days, based on usage

• Deactivation: If there’s no recharge or usage for 60 days, your number may be disconnected

• Reminder Alerts: Airtel also sends SMS reminders ahead of disconnection

Note: SIMs with zero usage (no calls, no SMS, no data) are more likely to get blocked early.

Why Have These Rules Changed?

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has asked operators to deactivate dormant numbers to:

• Prevent SIM misuse or fraud

• Free up unused numbers

• Ensure better network management

Jio and Airtel now require at least one recharge or active use every 90 days to keep your number running.

How to Keep Your SIM Active

• Recharge every 28–84 days (even with ₹99 or ₹155 plans)

• Make at least one call or use mobile data occasionally

• Avoid zero usage keep your SIM active with minimal use

• Don’t let it stay idle for 60–90 days

Final Takeaway

Whether you’re using Jio or Airtel, the new rule is simple: Recharge or use your SIM at least once every 90 days. Otherwise, you risk permanent disconnection, even if incoming calls still work. Stay alert, recharge on time, and avoid losing your number!