PTA Launches Free Mobile Registration for Visitors in 2025 — Full Guide Inside

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has revamped its mobile registration process in 2025, making it far more accessible and user-friendly. Whether you’re an overseas Pakistani, a foreign visitor, or a local resident, PTA’s updated system through DIRBS.pta.gov.pk and the PTA IMEI check app has made compliance smooth and efficient. One of the biggest highlights this year is the introduction of free temporary mobile registration for visitors — allowing seamless connectivity without paying heavy taxes.

In a major step towards digital transformation, PTA unveiled a Temporary Mobile Registration System in April 2025. This service enables overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors to use their mobile phones in Pakistan for up to 120 days without paying any duties or taxes. Available on the official DIRBS portal, this move supports better communication, navigation, and access to emergency services for travelers.

However, PTA and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have also clarified that social media rumors about permanent tax waivers are false. Long-term visitors and residents are still required to pay applicable mobile taxes through the PTA mobile tax check system. The upgraded DIRBS portal and PTA IMEI check app now make it easier to verify your device’s status, register, and calculate taxes with integrated biometric verification via NADRA for added security.

While the free temporary registration is a relief for travelers, it’s essential to understand the PTA mobile registration process to avoid service interruptions. Here’s a breakdown:

Why PTA Mobile Registration Matters

Before diving into the process, it’s important to know why device registration with PTA is crucial:

• Compliance: Ensures that your mobile is legally imported and registered, avoiding network blocking.

• Security: Helps track stolen or lost devices through the IMEI number.

• Connectivity: Guarantees uninterrupted access to Pakistani telecom services.

Using the PTA registration check or the PTA mobile registration online check tool, verifying your device’s status has never been easier.

Step-by-Step: How to Register Your Mobile Device with PTA

1. Check Your Device’s Compliance Status
Use one of the following methods:

• DIRBS Portal: Visit dirbs.pta.gov.pk, enter your IMEI (*#06#), and check compliance status.

• SMS: Text your IMEI number to 8484 for instant results.

• PTA IMEI Check App: Download the app from the Play Store or App Store and verify your device’s compliance easily.

2. Temporary Registration for Visitors (Free of Cost)
Overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors can register their phones temporarily for free:

• Visit dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs.

• Choose “Temporary Registration for Overseas Pakistanis/Foreign Nationals.”

• Enter your travel details, CNIC/passport number, and IMEI number.

• Submit the form and receive 120 days of free registration.

3. Permanent Mobile Registration for Residents
For residents and travelers staying longer than 120 days:

• Log in to dirbs.pta.gov.pk.

• Select “Register Device.”

• Provide device and personal details.

• Check applicable taxes through the portal.

• Pay taxes using JazzCash, Easypaisa, bank apps, or ATM services using your Payment Slip ID (PSID).

• Your device will be activated across all networks upon confirmation.

Pro Tip: Registration through a passport often results in lower taxes compared to CNIC-based registration!

4. Create Your PTA Mobile Registration Login

• Sign up on the DIRBS portal using your CNIC/passport number.

• Verify your account via email or SMS.

• Access your registration dashboard anytime.

5. Check Mobile Taxes Online
Use the DIRBS portal or FBR’s official site to:

• Input your IMEI number.

• View the calculated tax based on the device’s value, registration type, and ATL status.

Example for 2025:

• Samsung A15 5G: Around PKR 20,700 (passport) or PKR 23,161 (CNIC).

• iPhone 16 Pro Max: Often exceeding PKR 100,000 in tax.

6. Use the PTA IMEI Check App
Manage your device registration, tax payments, and status checks on the go through the free PTA IMEI check app available on Android and iOS platforms.

Why Staying Compliant is Critical

The updates in 2025 to the PTA mobile registration process mean easier compliance and greater convenience. Whether you’re visiting temporarily or living permanently in Pakistan, following the updated registration rules ensures uninterrupted mobile service.

Take advantage of PTA’s free registration for travelers, use the PTA IMEI check app for quick updates, and always stay connected.

For more information, visit dirbs.pta.gov.pk or contact the PTA helpline.

Read More: PTA shares details of mobile service charges and tariffs