Mobile Balance to Remain Valid for 180 Days; PTA Sets Minimum Validity Period

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced a major relief for prepaid mobile users by setting a minimum validity period of 180 days for mobile balance.

According to a PTA notification, mobile operators will be required to ensure that the minimum validity period for prepaid recharges and balances is 180 days.

The new policy will take effect from October 1, 2026, with the aim of protecting mobile users’ rights and providing them with greater convenience regarding their prepaid balances.

The PTA stated that if a customer’s mobile balance expires during the prescribed 180-day period, the expired balance will automatically be restored when the customer recharges the account. This will prevent users from losing previously available balance.

According to the regulator, the new measure will provide prepaid customers with greater protection regarding recharge and balance validity while establishing clear rules for mobile operators.

The PTA reiterated its commitment to protecting consumer rights, promoting transparency and ensuring a fair business environment in the telecommunications sector.

The authority said the minimum 180-day validity period would further safeguard the interests of prepaid mobile subscribers across Pakistan.