Pakistan has recently implemented a new policy regarding the import of mobile phones into the country, official sources said recently.
As of July 1, 2019, passengers are no longer allowed to bring mobile phones into Pakistan duty-free, regardless of the number of devices they are carrying, the sources in Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) said.
“This means that all mobile phones, including the latest iPhone models, are now subject to duty and taxes upon entry into the country.”
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has also stated that registering the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) of the device with them is necessary for those who have been using their mobile phones in Pakistan after returning from abroad. If they are using a local SIM card, failure to register within 60 days of inserting the SIM card could result in the phone being blocked and only being unblocked after paying the necessary duty, taxes, and penalties.
Passengers who forget to declare their mobile phone upon arrival at the airport can approach the nearest customs office to register the device. However, it is important to note that passengers cannot avail of any allowances admissible under the baggage rules if they forget to declare their mobile phone.
Foreign roamers who are using their mobile devices in Pakistan are allowed to continue using foreign SIMs without any time limit and without obtaining a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) from the PTA. However, if they start using a local SIM in their device, they will need to fulfill the conditions of a compliant device. Non-compliant devices will be notified of their deficiency through an SMS and will have 30 days to complete the requirements before being blocked. Visitors who plan to use a local SIM for more than 30 days will need to get a CoC from the PTA and pay the necessary duty and taxes.
Pakistan’s new baggage rules and taxes apply to all mobile phones, including the latest models. It is important for travelers to be aware of these rules and regulations to avoid any inconvenience or penalties. The PTA has stated that the implementation of this policy is to curb the smuggling of mobile phones into the country and to ensure that all mobile devices are properly registered and compliant with Pakistan’s laws and regulations.
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