Pakistan offers 120 day tax-free mobile registration for overseas citizens

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced a new initiative aimed at simplifying mobile network connectivity for overseas Pakistanis. Under a new Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) policy, the PTA is providing tax-free mobile registration for up to 120 days during each visit to the country.

Here’s how to avail this new offer.

Passengers arriving in Pakistan are required to register their mobile devices to ensure that they are able to utilize the local networks. They are required to compete this step within 60 days of their arrival date, as noted by the PTA.

While this temporary registration policy was first introduced by the PTA in April 2025, the organisation has now made the process tax-free.

The PTA emphasizes that this new policy ensures that visitors have a hassle-free connection during their visit.

“This initiative ensures seamless mobile connectivity during short stays in Pakistan and reflects PTA’s commitment to supporting digital access for all such visitors,” the organisation said in a statement.

Users are asked to complete their registration via the PTA’s Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System's, or DIRBS, portal. Both foreign travelers and Pakistani nationals are to utilize the same service, which is free and digitized.

While the sign-up process is fairly simple, for additional details, the PTA has also provided step-by-step instructions on their website.

Typical personal information details are often requested, such as entry dates, addresses and passport details, while CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) details are also requested for Pakistani nationals.

Additionally, while only one mobile device can be registered, dual SIMs are eligible for the service.

Mariam Khan is a trainee journalist at Gulf News.