PTA offers 120-Day tax-free mobile phone facility to overseas Pakistanis, foreign visitors
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced a temporary mobile phone registration facility for overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals visiting Pakistan, allowing eligible visitors to use their mobile devices for up to 120 days without paying applicable Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) taxes on the devices.
As per a report from the PTA, the free, automated Temporary Mobile Registration System is available through the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) online portal.
How to Apply for Temporary Mobile Registration
Applicants can visit the official PTA DIRBS portal to apply.
Users must first create an account and select the option titled “Temporary Registration for Overseas Pakistanis and Foreign Nationals”.
Moreover, overseas Pakistanis are required to provide their CNIC or NICOP number along with passport details matching their immigration records. However, foreign visitors must enter their passport information.
After verifying their account through email or SMS, applicants can log in and enter their mobile phone’s International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. The IMEI can be found by dialling *#06# on the device. Applicants must also specify whether their phone supports a single SIM or dual SIM.
In the next step, applicants must provide a Pakistani mobile number registered in their own name, select their mobile network operator and submit the application. Verification must then be completed through a one-time password (OTP).
Once the information is verified, the device will be temporarily registered under the facility.
Registration Valid for 120 Days
The temporary registration remains valid for up to 120 days during each visit to Pakistan. Eligible visitors can use the facility to access mobile services without paying the applicable device-related taxes during the approved period.
For further information, applicants can visit the PTA’s official website at www.pta.gov.pk.
