Good news for foreign visitors to Pakistan and overseas Pakistanis! The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) have introduced a new system that allows for the temporary registration of mobile phones brought into Pakistan by foreigners or Pakistanis living abroad. This new system addresses concerns about mobile phone blocking for foreign visitors and overseas Pakistanis.
PM Shahbaz Sharif Launches New Registration System
Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shahbaz Sharif, officially inaugurated the new temporary mobile phone registration system during a recent ceremony. This initiative is aimed at making it easier for visitors and expatriates to use their mobile devices without the worry of their phones being blocked.
120-Day Tax-Free Mobile Use for Foreigners and Overseas Pakistanis
Under this new system, foreign visitors and Pakistanis living abroad will be allowed to use their mobile phones for up to 120 days without paying taxes. Previously, the limit was set at 60 days, with exceptions allowing for a 120-day period. However, during his address, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif requested that the exception be removed, allowing all visitors to enjoy the full 120-day period without additional complications.
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New SIM Registration Process for Overseas Pakistanis and Foreign Visitors
A new temporary mobile phone registration mechanism has been created specifically for individuals who do not plan to stay in Pakistan for an extended period. The system is currently applicable only to mobile phones, and applicants will need to provide the following information:
- Passport number
- Arrival and departure dates
- The SIM card issued in their name
- IMEI number(s) of their mobile device(s)
Phone Suspension After 120 Days of Stay
Once the 120-day period has expired, the IMEI number(s) used under this scheme will be suspended and will no longer work on local networks. In cases where the individual revisits Pakistan, they will need to submit a new application for the temporary registration service.
Collaboration Between PTA, FIA, and FBR
The new registration system will be supported by a collaboration between the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The system will make use of the FIA’s Immigration Border Management System (IBMS) to confirm the arrival date of the applicant. This data will be cross-referenced with the FIA’s passenger entry and exit records.
Easy Phone Reactivation for Frequent Visitors
One of the most exciting updates is that visitors will now be able to reactivate the same phone and SIM card on future trips to Pakistan. Previously, tourists were not allowed to reuse the same phone after the initial 60-day period. With the new system, both overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors will be able to reactivate their devices by using immigration data to confirm their arrival and re-activate the same phone and SIM card.
Boosting Pakistan’s Reputation and Facilitating Overseas Pakistanis
This new system is expected to benefit not just overseas Pakistanis but also short-term foreign visitors. By ensuring that only legitimate individuals can take advantage of this feature, the initiative aims to enhance Pakistan’s reputation for facilitating international visitors and offering more convenience for mobile phone users.
The introduction of this registration system is part of a broader effort to make traveling to Pakistan and managing mobile devices more convenient for foreigners and expatriates, ensuring a smoother and more efficient experience for those staying temporarily in the country.
Conclusion
The new temporary mobile phone registration system introduced by the PTA and FBR significantly enhances the experience for foreign visitors and overseas Pakistanis. By allowing up to 120 days of tax-free mobile use, the system offers greater convenience, removing previous restrictions and ensuring that visitors can continue using their devices without disruption. The collaboration between PTA, FIA, and FBR, along with the ability to reactivate phones on future visits, further strengthens Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating international travel. This initiative not only benefits visitors but also boosts Pakistan’s reputation as a tech-friendly and welcoming destination.