Security Clearances and Sanctions: Digiato Examines Barriers to Widespread eSIM Adoption in Iran
Despite technical readiness, Iran’s eSIM rollout remains stalled by security approvals and GSMA-related sanctions, raising concerns over service stability and long-term adoption.
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Iranian mobile operators say they are technically ready to offer eSIM services, but regulatory delays and international restrictions have complicated the rollout of the technology.
According to Digiato, in late September this year, coinciding with the launch of new-generation iPhones, Iran’s major mobile operators finally opened pre-registration for eSIM services. A few days later, one of the key announcements at the Elecomp technology exhibition in October was the symbolic activation of electronic SIM cards.
Despite these steps, Iran remains at the threshold of adopting eSIM technology, while many global operators already provide the service at scale. Domestic operators have prepared trial versions of eSIM and are now awaiting commercial authorization from security and regulatory bodies.
What Is eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card integrated directly into a device’s hardware, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. It allows users to activate and manage mobile numbers remotely, store multiple carrier profiles on a single device, and free up internal space for other hardware components. However, eSIM functionality depends on both device compatibility and mobile operator support.
Are Licenses on the Way?
Iran’s major operators have submitted test versions of eSIM services to relevant authorities for evaluation and approval, hoping to obtain commercial licenses. However, particularly after the recent 12-day war, security institutions responsible for approving the service have reportedly applied stricter scrutiny.
As a result, the issuance of a commercial eSIM license by the telecom regulator, which operators expected within roughly two months of announcing readiness, has been delayed. Operators maintain that they are fully prepared to launch the service but remain unable to do so without formal authorization.
Beyond regulatory delays, however, more serious structural challenges are shaping the future of eSIM in Iran.
The Shadow of Unofficial Sanctions
Although eSIM technology itself is not directly sanctioned, the GSMA, the global organization responsible for mobile standards and eSIM certification, has reportedly refused to grant Iranian operators direct access to its eSIM infrastructure, citing broader international sanctions.
This has forced Iranian operators to deploy eSIM services through proxy-based architectures routed via third countries. While this workaround has enabled limited testing, industry sources warn that it poses technical and security risks.
One key concern is the potential for sudden service disruption if foreign servers cut access. In such a scenario, Iranian users could face unexpected eSIM deactivation or connectivity loss without prior notice. Notably, GSMA is reportedly aware of this indirect setup but has not taken action to address the situation.
Previously, Regulatech, the official X account of Iran’s Communications Regulatory Authority, cited sanctions as a major obstacle to eSIM implementation, warning that they could significantly slow deployment.
Is Localization Possible?
A central question is whether Iran can develop an independent eSIM ecosystem without reliance on GSMA infrastructure. According to technical experts, the answer is “yes, but with major limitations.”
The only viable non-GSMA approach would be a closed-loop eSIM system. However, this model is suitable only for specialized or organizational devices, such as industrial or military equipment, and does not meet the needs of consumer smartphones. As a commercial solution, it is largely impractical.
Another theoretical option would be the production of domestically manufactured smartphones using alternative standards not governed by GSMA, an idea that experts currently consider unrealistic.
A Possible Legal Route
Some experts argue that Iran’s Ministry of ICT could pursue legal action against GSMA for failing to uphold technological neutrality. However, it remains unclear whether such a move would be feasible or effective within international legal frameworks.
If current restrictions persist, Iran may face long-term legal deadlocks, not only in deploying eSIM services but also in importing future smartphones that rely exclusively on this technology.
