New Mobile Phone Registration Rules Take Effect Today, Here's How

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Registration for new SIM cards using the National Identity Number (NIK) and biometric facial recognition will commence on 1 July 2026. This method will replace the previous verification process that required the NIK and Family Card number (KK).

“God willing, biometrics will start on 1 July. This can improve public data collection, making it clearer, more accountable, and more transparent,” said Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid during a press conference on Tuesday (30/6/2026).

She added that this new registration method will also enable mobile operators to provide better services in the future. “Not only that, but operators can also provide better services for those who have completed biometric registration,” she explained.

This new registration procedure is stipulated in Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Regulation No. 7 of 2026 concerning Customer Registration for Cellular Mobile Network Services. It is mandatory for new prepaid customers.

A trial for biometric registration has been underway since January 2026, with 2.3 to 2.4 million users having registered using facial recognition. Registration can be completed at operator outlets and partner locations, as well as through each operator’s platform. The public simply needs to enter their mobile number and ID card details, then take a facial photo for verification.