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Islamabad (Tech Report):
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has rolled out a new facility for overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors, allowing them to register their mobile phones for up to 120 days without paying any taxes or duties. This initiative is designed to make short-term stays in Pakistan easier by removing the financial burden of mobile registration.
Temporary Registration Without FBR Taxes
According to PTA officials, the system enables overseas Pakistanis, tourists, and foreign nationals to temporarily use their smartphones on local networks without paying Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) duties. This means visitors can bring their personal devices and stay connected during their visit, without worrying about heavy tax payments.
The tax-free registration is valid for 120 days and can be availed once during a single visit. After the period expires, the device will automatically be blocked from local networks unless proper duties are paid.
How the 120-Day PTA Registration Works
- Visitors will need to register their phones through the DIRBS (Device Identification Registration and Blocking System) portal.
- Registration requires basic information including passport details, visa, and entry records.
- Once approved, the device will remain operational on local networks for 120 days.
- After 120 days, users can either pay the applicable PTA taxes to permanently register the device or let it expire.
Benefits for Overseas Pakistanis and Tourists
This move is expected to benefit millions of Pakistanis living abroad who frequently visit their home country. Instead of buying local phones or paying high taxes for short visits, they can now use their own smartphones conveniently.
Tourists visiting Pakistan will also find this initiative helpful, especially as digital banking, ride-hailing apps, and mobile wallets have become essential for traveling across the country.
Experts’ View
Telecom analysts have welcomed the policy, saying it will improve Pakistan’s image among overseas communities and foreign travelers. However, they stress the need for a transparent system to avoid misuse of the facility.
Conclusion
The PTA’s 120-day tax-free mobile registration is a step toward greater digital inclusion, convenience for overseas Pakistanis, and support for tourism in the country. While it does not replace permanent registration for long-term users, it ensures hassle-free connectivity for short visits.
For more updates on Pakistan’s mobile policies and telecom sector, visit Skipper.pk.
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