Twilio does not currently offer new Indian phone numbers for direct purchase due to local regulatory restrictions in India. However, Twilio does support sending SMS and making calls to and from Indian numbers, as well as using its platform for application-to-person (A2P) messaging in compliance with Indian telecom regulations.
If you still need to obtain an Indian number for use with Twilio, you have some alternative paths:
1. Work with a Local Telecom Provider
- Indian numbers can be purchased from local telecom operators (e.g., Airtel, Vodafone Idea, Jio).
- Once you acquire the number, you can use it with Twilio by:
- Porting the number to Twilio for SMS and voice services (if supported by your telecom provider).
- Using the number for WhatsApp Business API through Twilio after proper setup and approval.
2. Use Twilio for Messaging in India Without Buying a Number
Twilio allows sending SMS messages to Indian numbers via its platform using alphanumeric sender IDs (for transactional messages). Here's how:
Register Your Business for Messaging:
- In India, all businesses must comply with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) guidelines.
- Register with Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) platforms (e.g., via telecom providers like Airtel, Jio).
- Get approval for your sender ID and message templates.
Set Up Twilio Account:
- Configure your Twilio account for sending SMS in India.
- Use an alphanumeric sender ID for transactional messages (e.g., your company name).
Send Messages Without a Physical Number:
- For SMS, you can use Twilio’s messaging capabilities without owning an Indian phone number.
3. WhatsApp Business API in India
If your primary goal is WhatsApp messaging:
- Get a Phone Number:
- Use a local Indian number from a telecom provider or an existing business number.
- Register the Number for WhatsApp Business:
- Follow the WhatsApp Business API onboarding process via Twilio.
- Your number must be approved for use on WhatsApp.
Why Indian Numbers Are Restricted on Twilio
- Regulatory Compliance:
- India has strict telecom regulations, including mandatory user verification, registration, and limits on international numbers.
- DLT Framework:
- Businesses must comply with the TRAI DLT framework to send bulk or automated messages.
Alternative Providers
If Twilio cannot meet your Indian number needs, consider providers like:
These providers specialize in Indian telecom services and may allow you to integrate with Twilio through APIs.
Conclusion
Twilio doesn’t sell Indian numbers directly, but you can:
- Use a local provider’s number and integrate it with Twilio.
- Leverage Twilio’s platform for messaging or WhatsApp without owning a physical Indian number.
For exact requirements, consult with Twilio support or a local telecom provider.