Overseas Pakistanis will now be able to register their mobile phones tax-free for up to 120 days during each visit to Pakistan, according to a new policy introduced by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and implemented through the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). This measure aims to ease connectivity for temporary visitors from the Pakistani diaspora, who previously faced costly import taxes when bringing mobile devices into the country.
Under the newly introduced framework, the PTA has launched a fully automated, online facility called the Temporary Mobile Registration System, accessible via the DIRBS (Device Identification Registration and Blocking System) platform. Overseas Pakistanis can register their mobile devices quickly, conveniently, and free of charge at https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs. This automated system significantly reduces delays and eliminates the need for manual processing, delivering a streamlined registration process to travelers.
Previously, overseas Pakistanis arriving in the country even for short stays often encountered steep import taxes when registering their mobile phones brought from abroad. With this new policy, visitors can avail themselves of tax exemption for up to 120 days each time they visit Pakistan. The initiative removes unnecessary financial burdens, simplifies mobile usage, and allows visitors to maintain essential communications with ease during their limited stay.
The PTA stressed that the policy directly aligns with their ongoing commitment to promote digital inclusion and facilitate ease of access for the Pakistani diaspora. By simplifying procedures and reducing associated costs, the policy underscores the government’s dedication towards making telecommunications services more accessible and user-friendly for overseas Pakistanis.
This landmark decision is expected to benefit thousands of Pakistanis returning home each year by significantly decreasing registration costs, improving mobile connectivity, and providing a hassle-free experience during short-term visits to Pakistan.
