1. 📘 Introduction
India is a global hub for international data traffic, and Cable Landing Stations (CLS) play a vital role in ensuring seamless global connectivity. A Cable Landing Station is a site where international submarine cables connect to the domestic telecom networks of India.
To operate or establish a CLS in India, entities must obtain a Cable Landing Station-International Long Distance (CLS-ILD) License from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.
🔗 Official Government Porta
CLS licensing is managed under the Unified License framework introduced by the DoT.
2. 🧾 Types of Licenses Offered
Under the Unified License (UL) regime, the following authorizations are available relevant to CLS operations:
- International Long Distance (ILD) License – Mandatory to operate CLS
- Cable Landing Station (CLS) Authorization – A specific approval within ILD to set up and manage landing stations
You can’t operate a CLS without holding an ILD license.
3. 👤 Who Needs These Services?
The following entities must obtain a CLS license:
- Telecom operators seeking to land international submarine cables
- Data carriers providing transnational data bandwidth
- ISPs or MNCs planning to lease submarine cable capacity
- Infrastructure companies setting up CLS infrastructure on Indian coasts
- Private players collaborating with foreign cable consortia
4. 🤝 Why Choose a License Registration Service Provider?
The CLS license process is complex and includes:
- Technical evaluations by the Standing Committee on CLS
- Filing of multiple approvals with DoT, MEITY, and security agencies
- Drafting legal and financial documentation
- Site verification and security clearance
🔍 Choosing a service provider helps with:
- Expert handling of compliance and documentation
- Fast-tracking communication with authorities
- Structuring the legal setup
- Ongoing support for audits and renewals
5. 📝 Registration Process
Step-by-Step Process to Get CLS Authorization:
- Register on Saral Sanchar Portal
- Apply for Unified License with ILD Authorization
- Submit request for CLS Authorization (attached to ILD License)
- Provide detailed technical specs, landing agreement & cable information
- Appear before the Standing Committee on CLS for approval
- Receive approval & submit Security Clearance from DoT/MHA
- Pay applicable fees & submit bank guarantees
- Receive CLS Authorization Letter
📍 Note: You must have prior ILD License approval before applying for CLS.
6. 📂 Required Documents
- Certificate of Incorporation
- MoA (must include telecom infrastructure activities)
- ILD License copy
- Landing Agreement with international cable partners
- Detailed Network Plan & site design
- Technical details of CLS equipment
- Site ownership/lease papers
- Board Resolution & Power of Attorney
- Financial statements (2-3 years)
- Security clearance documentation
7. 💰 Cost Involved
| Fee Type | Amount |
| ILD Entry Fee | ₹2.5 Crore (one-time) |
| CLS Processing Fee | ₹15,000 |
| Performance Bank Guarantee | ₹2.5 Crore |
| Financial Bank Guarantee | ₹50 Lakh |
| Consultant/Service Fee | ₹1–2 Lakh (varies) |
💡 Fees can change as per DoT circulars. Always refer to for latest updates.
8. ⏳ Time Taken
| Activity | Estimated Duration |
| Preparation of Documents | 7–10 working days |
| ILD + CLS Application Review | 45–60 days |
| Standing Committee Evaluation | 30 days |
| Security Clearance & Final Grant | 20–30 days |
✅ Total Estimated Time: 90–120 working days
9. ❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for CLS without an ILD License
- Incomplete or missing Landing Agreements
- Poor documentation of site layouts
- Not submitting technical specs in required formats
- Ignoring mandatory board resolutions or outdated MoA
🛑 These mistakes can delay approvals by several months.
10. 📞 Call-to-Action (CTA)
Need professional help with your Cable Landing Station license?
📧 Email: opriyatrendingpvtltd@gmail.com
📲 WhatsApp: +91 7588756518
🌐 Website: www.opriyatrending.in
Let our experts guide you through the entire process—start to finish.
11. ❓ FAQs
Q1. Is a separate license required for each landing station?
Yes. Each CLS site requires DoT clearance and authorization.
Q2. Can a company hold both ILD and CLS licenses?
Yes, most CLS operators are also ILD licensees.
Q3. Is there a validity for CLS License?
CLS authorization aligns with the ILD license and the Unified License, which is valid for 20 years.
Q4. Are foreign companies allowed to invest in CLS setups?
Yes, subject to FDI norms and security clearance by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).Q5. Can an ISP operate a CLS?
No, only ILD license holders are permitted to operate a Cable Landing Station.
