The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) allows overseas Pakistanis to use their mobile phones in Pakistan without paying import taxes for up to 120 days per visit. The facility is available under the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) policy and covers temporary use during their stay.
The service is available through the PTA’s automated Temporary Mobile Registration System on the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) portal. It allows eligible visitors to register their devices online without going through the regular tax-paid registration process.
To apply, users must visit https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs/login and select “Temporary Registration for Overseas Pakistanis and Foreign Nationals” after signing up.
Applicants must provide their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) or National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) details. They must also submit passport information that matches their immigration records. Foreign nationals are required to provide their passport details.
The application also requires the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number of each device. Users must specify whether their phone supports one SIM or two SIMs. They can find the IMEI number by dialling *#06# on their handset.
Applicants must also provide a Pakistani mobile number registered in their own name and select their network operator. After submitting the details, they must complete verification through a one-time password (OTP).
Once verification is successful, the device is temporarily registered under the system. The registration remains valid for up to 120 days per visit, in line with the applicable FBR policy.
The facility helps overseas Pakistanis stay connected during visits without paying the usual mobile registration taxes. However, applicants should ensure their identity, passport, phone number, and device details are accurate to avoid delays.
