IMEI Registration & TAC Approval

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IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) registration is the process of recording a mobile device’s unique 15-digit code to ensure authenticity and lawful network access. It is mandatory for manufacturers, importers, and Brand owner to comply with GSMA TAC allocation and technical guidelines for telecom approval. This helps prevent counterfeit or stolen devices from operating on networks. Lets understand how Proper IMEI registration ensures global compliance and seamless device connectivity across markets along with process and cost

How to Register IMEI Numbers: Step-by-Step Process & Charges

Before we go ahead with the process of IMEI registration, we need to understand the terminology associated with IMEI registration.

What is an IMEI Number?

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code used to identify every mobile device globally.
It ensures each handset is uniquely identifiable, traceable, secure, and compliant with telecom regulations of the country where it operates. IMEI numbers are generated based on the TAC (Type Allocation Code) issued by the GSMA, the global mobile industry association, based on the assessment of the assessment reporting body of the GSMA.

How is the IMEI Number generated?

An IMEI number is a 15-digit unique code generated using a TAC (Type Allocation Code) issued by GSMA.
The first 8 digits define the device model, followed by a unique serial number and a check digit for validation.
This ensures every mobile handset is globally identifiable and traceable.

What is A TAC in an IMEI, and how can we get one?

A TAC code (Type Allocation Code) is an 8-digit identifier assigned by GSMA to recognize a specific mobile device model and brand.
Manufacturers or brand owners can obtain a TAC by applying through a GSMA-accredited Reporting Body (RB), providing product details, test reports, and brand authorization for approval.

Who Can Apply for This Certificate?

The IMEI helps the user identify the brand and model of the device that is capable of connecting to a telecome network. A telecommunication device manufacturer or the approved brand owner of a telecommunication device can get the IMEI registered by applying for the IMEI registration by registering a TAC (Type Allocation Code) through a GSMA-accredited Reporting Body (RB).
Once the TAC is approved, manufacturers can generate and register IMEI numbers linked to that TAC for each device model.

List of Documents Required for IMEI Brand & TAC Registeration

Manufacturer’s / Brand Owner’s Business License
Proof that the applicant is a legitimate manufacturer or brand owner of the mobile device.
Company / Organization Registration Documents
Includes Certificate of Incorporation, Tax ID / GST, and other relevant business licenses.
Director & Company Details
A letter on company letterhead listing directors, contact details, and business profile.
Device Technical Specifications
Full device information — model name, model number, hardware configuration, and software version.
Test Reports
Required if the brand is unaware of the band profile; band profiling tests may be conducted for accuracy.
Bank Account Confirmation Letter
Confirms the company’s official bank account details for verification and record purposes.
Import Registration Certificate (if applicable)
Mandatory for companies importing devices into their respective countries.
Trademark Certificate / Brand Authorization
Proof of brand ownership or authorization for the brand name under which IMEI is being registered.

These documents help validate your brand’s authenticity and ensure smooth brand and IMEI with GSMA. Some documents may change from brand owner/manufacuters country to country

Step-by-Step Process for IMEI Brand Registration and TAC Application

Step 1: Document Preparation and GSMA Brand Approval
Start by preparing all required documents for brand registration and GSMA approval.
This includes company incorporation papers, trademark details, and other business credentials.
Once verified, GSMA grants brand approval and login credentials for TAC application.

Step 2: Compliance Testing for Band Profile (If Required)
If your device’s band profile or frequency range is unknown, conduct the necessary compliance tests.
These may include RF exposure, SAR, or electrical safety testing to validate the device’s compatibility.

Step 3: Purchase of TAC Credits
Before applying for TAC, purchase TAC credits from GSMA.
These credits are required to initiate and process the TAC allocation request.

Step 4: Submission of Model and Technical Details
Submit a complete TAC application with device specifications, model details, and technical information to GSMA through an accredited Reporting Body (RB) in your region.
The RB evaluates and forwards the request for final TAC approval and allocation.

Step 5: IMEI Generation Using TAC
After receiving TAC approval, generate 15-digit IMEI numbers derived from the assigned TAC.
Each TAC can generate up to one million unique IMEI numbers.
If additional IMEIs are needed for the same model, a new TAC must be obtained.

Products which Require IMEI Registeration

IMEI registration is mandatory for all devices equipped with a cellular module or SIM-based connectivity. Below are the key product categories that require IMEI certification and registration with GSMA.

Mobile Phones – Includes all types of handsets such as smartphones, feature phones, and basic GSM mobile phones that operate on 2G, 3G, 4G, or 5G networks.
Tablets with Cellular Connectivity – Tablets featuring SIM card slots or cellular modems capable of connecting to mobile networks must undergo IMEI registration.
Smart Devices with Cellular Modules – Devices like smartwatches, connected healthcare wearables, smart meters, and vehicle telematics systems require IMEI registration for tracking and compliance.
Embedded Cellular Devices – Products integrated with cellular chips, such as automotive GPS systems, fleet tracking units, industrial IoT controllers, and remote monitoring equipment, must have registered IMEIs.
Data Cards and USB Dongles – Includes USB modems, data cards, and portable Wi-Fi routers (MiFi devices) that connect through GSM/4G/5G networks.
Other Cellular-Enabled Devices – Equipment like POS terminals, GPS trackers, and cellular-based security or surveillance systems also require IMEI registration for network authorization.

If your product connects to a mobile network using a SIM or embedded module, it must have a valid GSMA-issued IMEI.

Timeline

The complete IMEI approval process typically takes around 10–12 working days, depending on the availability and accuracy of the required documents.
It usually requires about 5 working days for brand registration and GSMA approval, including verification of the company, trademark, and authorization documents.
Another 5–7 working days are needed for TAC (Type Allocation Code) assessment and approval by the GSMA-accredited Reporting Body.

Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or additional technical clarifications are requested during the review.

IMEI Registration Cost and Commercials

S.No	Service Description	Cost	Remarks
1	TAC Purchase Fee	USD 450	Charged by GSMA for TAC (Type Allocation Code) credit purchase for each model.
2	Service & Documentation for Brand Registration	INR 20,000 / USD 300	Applicable for new brands; includes GSMA brand approval, login credential setup, and document verification.
3	Service & Documentation for TAC Approval (For already approved brands)	INR 15,000 / USD 250	Covers TAC documentation, technical evaluation, and model submission under an existing GSMA-approved brand.
4	Taxes & Charges	As Applicable	Local VAT/GST, payment gateway, and international banking charges apply based on the mode of payment and country.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is IMEI Registration?

IMEI Registration is the process of registering mobile devices’ unique IMEI numbers. It ensures devices meet local regulations and can use cellular networks.

Can I register multiple IMEI numbers under in one brand

Yes, you can register a unique IMEI number for each 1 million devices per model

Why is IMEI Registration important?

It’s crucial for device compliance with local standards. It prevents the use of counterfeit or stolen devices. It also enables tracking and blocking of lost or stolen devices.

What is device Band Profile ?

Each device has a capalbiity to connect to only certain types of the network , in profile a manufacturer declares what types of network ban a device can connect

How long does the IMEI registration process take?

The Process usually takes 2 weeks from the brand registration to TAC allocation

Can I register multiple IMEI numbers at once?

Yes, you can submit multiple IMEI numbers in one application. You can decide the number of units you want to manufacuter of particular model along with number of application and move ahead with the process of IMEI Registeration

I dont manufacuters devices myselft and get i manufacured from someone in China ,can i get brand name done in my own brand ?

Yes, you can register the IMEI in your own brand name and still get the product manufactured by 3rd party

Is compliance testing mandatory for IMEI registration?

Compliance testing is needed for some products and local regulations. InstaCertify Labs can check if your device requires testing.

Can InstaCertify can handle IMEI registration for foreign manufacturers?

Yes, InstaCertify can handle IMEI registration for both domestic and foreign manufacturers. Helping with complete IMEI compliance