If you bring a mobile phone to Pakistan from abroad — or buy an imported phone locally — you must register it with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Unregistered phones are blocked from local networks after a grace period.
The registration process involves paying a customs duty/tax based on the phone's declared value in US dollars.
Why Does PTA Block Unregistered Phones?
Pakistan launched the Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) to:
- Combat smuggling of mobile devices
- Increase tax revenue from imported phones
- Protect consumers from counterfeit devices
- Maintain an official database of active devices in the country
How Much Tax Do You Pay?
PTA mobile phone tax is calculated in Pakistani Rupees based on the phone's value in US Dollars, using two different rate schedules depending on whether you register using your CNIC (National ID) or Passport.
CNIC Registration (for Pakistani Citizens)
| Phone Value (USD) | Tax (PKR) | |---|---| | Up to $30 | Rs. 430 | | $30 – $100 | Rs. 3,200 | | $100 – $200 | Rs. 9,580 | | $200 – $350 | Rs. 12,200 | | $350 – $500 | Rs. 17,800 | | Above $500 | Rs. 36,870 |
Passport Registration (for Overseas Pakistanis / Foreign Nationals)
Passport registration is cheaper and intended for people bringing phones as personal use items. However, a phone registered via passport can only be used while the registered passport holder is in Pakistan.
How to Register Your Phone with PTA
Method 1: DIRBS Web Portal
- Visit dirbs.pta.gov.pk
- Check your IMEI status (dial
*#06#to get IMEI) - Click "Register Device"
- Enter your CNIC or passport details
- Pay the applicable tax via online banking or mobile payment
Method 2: PTA Mobile App
Download the official PTA DIRBS app from Google Play or the App Store and follow the registration steps.
Method 3: Bank Branch
You can pay PTA registration tax at designated bank branches and receive a confirmation receipt.
Grace Period for New Arrivals
When you arrive in Pakistan with a foreign phone, PTA gives a 60-day grace period before the device is blocked. Use this time to register your device and pay the applicable tax.
How to Check if Your Phone is Already Registered
Dial *8484# from your phone or visit the DIRBS portal and enter your IMEI to check registration status. You will see one of:
- Compliant: Device is registered and allowed on Pakistani networks
- Non-Compliant: Device is not registered — you need to register before it is blocked
- Stolen: Device reported as stolen
Use Our Free Calculator
Not sure how much tax you'll pay? Use our PTA Mobile Tax Calculator to instantly calculate the exact registration tax based on your phone's dollar value — for both CNIC and passport registration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my foreign phone in Pakistan without registering?
Your phone will work for the first 60 days. After that, it will be blocked from all Pakistani mobile networks (Telenor, Jazz, Zong, Ufone, SCO) until you complete registration.
Does PTA tax apply to phones bought locally in Pakistan?
Local phones sold through authorized channels are pre-registered. PTA tax applies to phones brought from abroad or purchased through unofficial channels.
What happens if I sell my registered phone?
The registration is tied to the IMEI and owner. The new owner should verify the phone's status on DIRBS. It is recommended to transfer registration for full protection.
Is PTA registration a one-time fee?
Yes, it is a one-time payment per device. Once registered, there are no recurring fees.