ISLAMABAD – In a major relief for overseas Pakistanis, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced a tax-free mobile registration system for citizens returning home for short visits. Under the new initiative, travelers can use their personal mobile devices in Pakistan for up to 120 days without paying any customs duties or FBR-related taxes.
The system is aimed at easing the burden on Pakistani expatriates visiting for vacations, weddings, family gatherings, or business trips. Previously, many travelers were caught off guard by high tax demands or faced service disruptions due to unregistered devices. Now, they can register their phones through a simplified digital process that’s entirely free of charge.
According to officials, the initiative only applies to personal mobile phones and is valid for a single stay of up to 120 days, starting from the day of arrival in Pakistan. After this period, standard tax and registration procedures will apply.
PTA says the move is part of broader efforts to enhance digital accessibility and facilitate hassle-free communication for visitors. “We want overseas Pakistanis to stay connected without having to worry about additional costs or complicated paperwork,” an official said, noting that the system is designed to be automated, efficient, and user-friendly.
The tax-free registration offers significant practical value, especially for those who rely on mobile phones for banking, travel apps, communication, and digital services during their stay. By eliminating the financial and administrative roadblocks, authorities hope to make short-term visits more comfortable and digitally inclusive.
Travelers can access the system online and complete the process with just a few clicks. PTA has encouraged users to register their phones promptly upon arrival to take full advantage of the 120-day window.
This step is being welcomed as a thoughtful and timely move, particularly by the large diaspora community, who frequently travel to Pakistan but often find themselves frustrated by device registration hurdles.
