PTA has issued an important reminder to international travelers entering Pakistan with mobile devices, urging them to comply with the tax obligations set by FBR for device registration under the Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking System (DIRBS). This step is crucial to ensuring that travelers’ mobile devices can operate seamlessly while adhering to national regulations.
As part of the country’s effort to control illegal mobile devices, PTA emphasized that travelers must register their devices upon arrival. For short-term visitors, PTA offers a temporary registration option. However, for those staying in Pakistan for more than 120 days or requiring continuous mobile network access, the devices must be officially registered, and the relevant taxes must be paid to FBR.
“International travelers are strongly encouraged to complete their device registration through DIRBS and fulfill FBR tax requirements promptly to avoid service disruptions.”
PTA clarified that the taxes related to device registration are solely imposed and collected by FBR. As per the regulations, travelers need to complete the registration and tax payment process before their devices can be used on Pakistani mobile networks. If the registration and tax payments are not made within the required time frame, the devices will not be able to access mobile services in the country, potentially leading to significant disruptions for travelers who rely on their devices for communication and business.
PTA also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a transparent and efficient telecommunications environment while upholding regulatory compliance. By ensuring that all mobile devices are properly registered and taxed, PTA aims to protect Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure from the influx of illegal or unregistered devices, which can strain mobile networks and undermine security. FBR tax rates for mobile device registration depend on the device’s value, as well as whether it is registered via a traveler’s passport or CNIC. The latest breakdown of tax rates is as follows:
For devices valued up to $100, the tax is approximately PKR 3,000 for passport registration and PKR 4,300 for CNIC registration. For devices valued between $100 and $200, the tax increases to approximately PKR 7,500 (passport) or PKR 11,000 (CNIC). Devices valued between $200 and $350 are taxed at PKR 11,000 (passport) or PKR 17,500 (CNIC). For devices priced between $350 and $500, the tax is approximately PKR 16,500 (passport) or PKR 29,500 (CNIC). Finally, for devices valued above $500, the tax rates are PKR 36,500 for passport registration and PKR 46,500 for CNIC registration.
It is important to note that these tax rates are subject to periodic revisions by FBR, and travelers are encouraged to check the FBR’s official website for the most up-to-date information. Travelers must ensure they comply with these requirements before using their mobile devices in Pakistan, as failure to do so could result in penalties, including the inability to access local networks.
This move by PTA and FBR is part of a broader strategy to control the import and use of unauthorized mobile devices, which can lead to revenue losses for the government. Through the DIRBS system, the government aims to monitor and regulate the use of mobile devices across the country, ensuring that all devices in use are properly registered and taxed, thereby safeguarding the national telecommunication infrastructure.
As Pakistan continues to modernize its regulatory framework for mobile devices, the PTA’s reminder serves as an important notice to international travelers. By adhering to the new regulations, travelers can avoid disruptions to their mobile services and contribute to a more efficient and secure telecommunications ecosystem in Pakistan.
