Secure Wireline Access Service Authorisation in India

What is Wireline Access Service Authorisation?

Wireline Access Service Authorisation is an authorisation available only to Virtual Network Operators (VNOs). This authorisation allows a VNO to provide fixed-line telecom services in a particular telecom circle/metro service area, in accordance with applicable authorisation conditions specified under the Telecom Authorisation Rules 2026. To obtain this authorisation, an application must be submitted online via Telecom eServices Portal. This portal is operated by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

Before applying for authorisation, the applicant entity must first ensure that it meets eligibility criteria and has all the required documents. Need assistance with Wireline Access Service Authorisation in India? Get in touch with our telecom consultants at Registrationwala. 

What is a Virtual Network Operator?

A Virtual Network Operator is a telecom company that provides telecom services without owning the telecommunication network it uses. Instead, it uses the network of an authorised Network Service Operator under a commercial agreement. Because of this, the VNO gets to save on the high costs associated with building, operating and maintaining its own telecom network. 

What Services are Provided by Companies with Wireline Access Authorisation?

Companies with VNO - Wireline Access Service Authorisation can provide a variety of telecom services in a telecom circle/metro service area. In table below, we have listed the telecom services that can be provided under this authorisation (as specified under Rule 70 of Telecom Authorisation Rules 2026):-

Note: It is important to note that a VNO holding a Wireline Access Service Authorisation can provide the above-listed services only through a wireline terrestrial network. The services must be delivered using fixed user terminals with wireline access or through machines such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices, sensor-type user terminals, routers, switches or any other user terminals as may be specified by Central Government.

Wireline Access Service Authorisation Fee Structure

The fee structure for the Wireline Access Service Authorisation is given below. Before applying, it is important to understand this structure so that you are financially prepared:-

What are the Eligibility Criteria for Wireline Authorisation?

Before applying for Wireline Access Service Authorisation, it is essential to know the eligibility criteria. Therefore, we have listed this criteria below:-

• The applicant must be a company incorporated under Companies Act, 2013 (excluding One Person Company).

• It must meet minimum paid-up equity capital and net worth requirements.

• FDI, if any, must comply with the government’s FDI policy and applicable laws. 

• The company must have management based on sound principles.

• If the company already holds or is applying for one or more authorisations or licences, it must meet the combined minimum paid-up equity capital requirement.

• If the company already holds or is applying for one or more authorisations or licences, it must meet combined minimum net worth requirement.

• The company must comply with the requirements specified under Rule 12 of the Telecommunications (Authorisation for Provision of Principal Telecommunication Services) Rules, 2026.

• The company must not have any outstanding dues. Any pending dues must be cleared before applying.

Equity and Net Worth Requirements for Wireline Access Authorisation

The equity capital and net worth requirements for obtaining the wireline access authorisation are stated below:-

Which Documents are Required for WASA VNO Registration?

For VNO WASA registration, the following documents are required:-

• Certified copy of Certificate of Incorporation along with Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association. (Please note that the Memorandum of Association must mention ‘Telecommunication Services’ as one of its main objects).

• Certified copy of Board Resolution on the applicant’s letterhead, authorising the WASA application submission by applicant.

• Certified copy of Board Resolution on the applicant’s letterhead, authorising the person signing the application to be authorised signatory for the purposes of submission of application and all associated matters.

• Power of Attorney in authorised signatory’s favour.

• Digital Signature Certificate.

• Certified copy of appointment letter of auditor by resolution of Board of Directors and acceptance letter from auditor.

• Certificate verifying the net worth of the applicant. 

• Certificate confirming the paid-up equity capital of the applicant. 

• Certificate detailing the breakdown of paid-up equity capital into Indian and foreign equity along with further details on foreign equity. 

• Certificate certifying that foreign direct investment (including from countries sharing land border with India), if any, in the applicant is in conformity with the FDI policy issued by the Government of India from time to time.

• Certificate certifying that the applicant meets the eligibility criteria under rule 5 of the Telecom Authorisation Rules 2026.

How to Apply for WAS Authorisation?

The general process for Wireline Access Service Authorisation is explained below. Once you go through all the steps, you will have a basic understanding of how the WAS authorisation application process works.

Step 1:- Before applying, the applicant must ensure compliance with eligibility requirements. Additionally, all the necessary documents must be prepared/collected for the purpose of filing WASA application.

Step 2:- Then, the application must be submitted via Telecom eServices Portal along with the required documents and prescribed application processing fee.

Step 3:- After DoT receives the application, it examines it to verify eligibility and compliance. The Department may ask the applicant to provide additional documents/clarifications if the same is deemed necessary.

Step 4:- If the applicant entity is found eligible, the Department issues a Letter of Intent (LoI). The applicant must fulfil all the conditions mentioned in this letter within the prescribed time. This includes payment of entry fee and submission of Initial Guarantee.

Step 5:- After fulfillment of LoI conditions, the Department grants Wireline Access Service Authorisation and issues a Unique Authorisation Number to applicant entity.

Validity and Renewal Requirements for WAS Authorisation

Initially, the WASA VNO is valid for 20 years. This authorisation can be renewed for further periods of 20 years each to continue providing authorised telecom services. For telecom authorisation renewal, the applicant must submit the VNO renewal application at least 12 months before the expiry of the current authorisation. 

Registrationwala’s Assistance in Obtaining Wireline Access Service Authorisation

Registrationwala is a leading telecom consultancy firm in India. Our team includes Chartered Accountants, Company Secretaries, Lawyers and other experienced professionals. For more than a decade, we have been helping businesses with telecom regulatory compliance and approvals. 

Our experts can help you obtain a Wireline Access Service Authorisation by assisting with:-

• Checking your eligibility for authorisation.

• Collecting and preparing the required documents.

• Filing the WASA certificate application on your behalf.

• Regularly tracking your application and resolving any issues raised by DoT.

• Helping you obtain the authorisation from DoT.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)