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Complete Guide to PTA SIM Registration (2025 Update): Fees, Documents & Timeline

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Ensuring your mobile device is PTA-registered is now mandatory under Pakistan’s DIRBS framework. This comprehensive, SEO-friendly guide will walk you through what DIRBS is, who needs to register, how to register (including fees), which documents you’ll need, and when to expect confirmation—updated for 2025 compliance.

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What Is PTA SIM Registration (DIRBS)?

The Device Identification, Registration & Blocking System (DIRBS) was launched on December 1, 2018 to curb illegal devices and improve network security. By tying each IMEI (device identity) to its rightful owner, PTA ensures:

  • Only legally imported devices operate on Pakistani networks

  • Intellectual property is protected and network resources preserved

  • Consumers enjoy better service quality with compliant handsets.

Who Needs to Register?

Under updated Finance Act 2019 rules (effective July 1, 2019), all mobile devices with SIM/IMEI functionality must be registered if:

  • You bring a device abroad and insert a local SIM for over 60 days

  • You receive a device (new/used) as a gift from overseas

  • Your device has a valid IMEI but isn’t yet PTA-registered .

Failure to register within 60 days of first local-SIM use will result in immediate blocking.

Registration Methods

1. USSD Registration (*8484#)

  • Dial *8484# from any local SIM

  • Follow the on-screen prompts to enter your CNIC/Passport, IMEI(s), and receive a PSID.

2. Online via DIRBS Portal

3. Franchise/Service Center

  • Present your CNIC/Passport/POC/NADRA ID/POR card at any operator franchise or service centre

  • Provide IMEI(s) for on-spot biometric registration.

Fees & FBR Taxes

PTA registration itself is free for compliant devices, but FBR levies a duty based on your device’s CIF/C&F value. Always verify the official FBR tariff table; current brackets (2024 data) are:

 

C&F Value (USD) Approx. Duty (PKR)
Up to 30 1,230
30 – 100 6,400
100 – 200 17,280
200 – 350 23,800 + 17% GST
350 – 500 34,000 + 17% GST
500 – 700 52,000 + 17% GST
Above 700 60,000 + 17% GST

Note: Rates may change—always confirm on the FBR portal: FBR Mobile Devices Regularization.

Required Documents

  • Pakistani Nationals: Valid CNIC

  • Overseas Pakistanis/Visitors: Original Passport with valid visa or Pakistan Origin Card (POC)

  • Other IDs Accepted: NADRA ID, Proof of Residence (POR) card.

Timeline & Turnaround

  • PSID Validity: 7 days from issuance—pay FBR taxes within this window or your PSID is deleted.

  • Approval Upon Payment:

    • Typically within 3 hours of FBR confirmation via 1-Link

    • In some cases, may take up to 24 hours

  • Grace Period:

    • Register within 60 days of first local-SIM use or face blocking

Temporary Registration for Visitors

Overseas travelers can enjoy a 120-day duty-free registration by applying through DIRBS. Activation is generally within 3 hours, though complex cases may extend to 1–3 business days

Step-by-Step Registration Walkthrough

  1. Choose Your Method: USSD, Online, or Franchise

  2. Enter IMEI(s): Dial *8484# or login to DIRBS portal

  3. Generate PSID: Note down the PSID code

  4. Pay FBR Taxes: Use mobile wallet, ATM, or bank branch

  5. Verify Status: Check via *8484# or DIRBS portal

  6. Receive Approval: Device unblocked and fully functional

1. Can I register multiple devices under one account?

Yes—simply repeat the PSID generation and payment steps for each IMEI under your DIRBS account.

2. What if I miss the 7-day PSID window?

Your PSID will be auto-deleted; log back into DIRBS and reapply to generate a new PSID.

3. Will tax-filers get a rebate?

No—FBR policy mandates duty/tax on all devices regardless of filer status.

4. My device is already “compliant”—do I still register?

No—compliant devices (registered before January 15, 2019) are exempt from re-registration.

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