SIM card registration is compulsory in Austria from September 1st: Otherwise it is no longer possible to top up

It has been impossible to buy anonymous SIM cards in Austria since the beginning of this year. Now the SIM card registration requirement goes to level 2: from September 1st you can no longer top up unregistered SIM cards. What that means now.

Last year the Austrian government passed a law on SIM registration requirements in Austria. But so that this does not go too fast for the user, these should have three stages. Since the beginning of this year, it has no longer been possible to buy new, anonymous SIM cards. The second stage then runs on September 1st: unregistered SIM cards can then no longer be topped up. The last stage should follow next year: all affected SIM cards should be turned off.

What exactly happens on September 1st?

In concrete terms, the new regulation mainly affects prepaid card holders. Anyone who does not register their SIM card by September 1st will no longer be able to use it after this date procharge seamlessly.

You can still use your SIM card, but you can no longer book new credit so quickly. However, it will still be possible to register your SIM card after September 1st and then be able to top it up again. Nevertheless, the verification process often takes several days and is not possible abroad, for example.

It is generally recommended to register as soon as possible: "In order to avoid unpleasant surprises because the mobile phone suddenly no longer works, we recommend using the summer months for registration," says Telecom regulator Klaus M. Steinmaurer in a broadcast.

How can I register my SIM card?

There are generally several options here. Registration can be done in the operator's shop, with sales partners (supermarkets, post offices), by confirming the credit or financial institution or via the Internet using a webcam ("Photoident"). Users under the age of 18 can also register independently - without parents.

Every EU citizen can register their Austrian SIM card. (Image: Wertkartenregistrierung.at)

Expensive penalties for Proempty

If a provider does not comply with this SIM card registration requirement and does not record the name, academic degree and date of birth of a user, there is a high penalty. The operator's violation of the law can cost up to 37.000 euros. Providers may also charge a fee for registration - but this is currently usually free. However, fees could be charged for this after September 1st.

Further details can be found on Wertkartenregistrierung.at

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