The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a clear explanation on how overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals can use their personal mobile phones in Pakistan without paying any taxes or duties.
This facility is part of PTA’s Temporary Mobile Registration system, designed to provide convenience to visitors and overseas residents during short stays in the country.
According to PTA, eligible users can temporarily register their personal mobile devices for up to 120 days. During this period, the mobile phone can operate normally on Pakistani networks without requiring payment of PTA taxes, customs duties, or device registration fees. This initiative aims to reduce inconvenience for travelers who bring their phones for personal use while visiting Pakistan.
The Temporary Mobile Registration facility is available to overseas Pakistanis holding valid foreign passports, as well as foreign nationals visiting the country. The registration process is straightforward and can be completed online through PTA’s Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) portal. Users are required to provide basic information, including passport details, travel dates, and the phone’s IMEI number.
PTA has emphasized that the temporary registration is non-transferable and strictly meant for personal use. Once the 120-day period expires, the device will be blocked unless the user opts for permanent registration by paying the applicable taxes and duties. Visitors who leave Pakistan before the expiry of the allowed duration do not need to take any additional action.
The authority also clarified that each individual can register a limited number of devices under this scheme, ensuring the system is not misused for commercial purposes. The facility is particularly helpful for overseas Pakistanis returning home for vacations, family visits, or short-term stays, allowing them to stay connected without additional financial burden.
PTA encourages travelers to complete the temporary registration soon after arrival to avoid service disruptions. Mobile phones that are not registered, even temporarily, may face partial or complete network blocking.
By offering tax-free mobile usage for a limited period, PTA aims to enhance the travel experience for overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors while maintaining regulatory oversight. The initiative reflects the authority’s ongoing efforts to balance consumer convenience with compliance and security requirements.