Why Register Your Mobile Phone with PTA?
In Pakistan, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) requires all mobile devices to be registered through the Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS). Unregistered phones, especially imported ones, will be blocked from local networks after a grace period (usually 60 days).
Registration ensures legal use, prevents smuggling, and keeps your phone connected to Pakistani SIMs without interruptions.
Always buy PTA-approved phones or register imported devices promptly!
How to Check Your Phone's PTA Status
Before registering, check if your device is already compliant:
- Dial *#06# to get your IMEI number(s). Dual-SIM phones have two IMEIs.
- Send the IMEI via SMS to 8484 (small fee applies).
- Or visit the official PTA DIRBS portal: https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/
Status replies: Compliant (approved), Non-Compliant (needs registration), or Blocked.
Temporary Registration for Visitors & Overseas Pakistanis (Free, Up to 120 Days)
Great news for travelers! Overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors can register one personal phone free of cost for up to 120 days per visit.
- Must be done inside Pakistan (system verifies arrival via passport).
- Process is fully online and automated.
Steps:
- Go to https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs
- Select the temporary registration option for foreigners/visitors.
- Enter passport details, arrival info, IMEI(s), and a local mobile number.
- Submit – activation usually within 24 hours.
This is ideal for short stays. For longer use, convert to permanent registration and pay taxes.
Permanent Registration (With Tax Payment)
For long-term use in Pakistan, pay the applicable duty/taxes based on phone value and registration type (Passport or CNIC).
Passport registration (often for recent arrivals) may have lower rates if applied within 60 days.
Latest Tax Slabs (January 2026 Update)
| Phone Value (USD) | Approximate Tax (Passport - Fixed Rates) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Up to $30 | Rs. 430 - 550 | Very low-end devices |
| $30 - $100 | Rs. 4,323+ | |
| $100 - $200 | Rs. 9,580 | |
| $200 - $350 | Rs. 12,200 + 17% sales tax | |
| $350 - $500 | Higher slabs apply | |
| Over $500 | Rs. 37,007 + sales tax | Premium flagships |
Note: Taxes vary by exact model, exchange rate, and policy changes. Always check the official portal for your device's exact amount via PSID generation.
Steps for Permanent Registration:
- Visit https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs
- Login/create account with CNIC or Passport.
- Enter IMEI(s) and device details.
- Generate Payment Slip ID (PSID).
- Pay via bank, mobile banking, ATM, or online.
- Confirmation SMS/email after processing.
Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Register both IMEIs for dual-SIM phones.
- Use only official PTA site – beware of fake apps/sites.
- Overseas Pakistanis: One free device per year possible in some cases.
- If blocked, registration can still unblock it after payment.
