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PTA Mobile Tax Rates in Pakistan: Latest 2026 Payment Guide

Owning a smartphone in Pakistan is a must — whether it’s for selfies, scrolling, or staying connected. But before you unwrap that shiny new iPhone or Samsung, there’s one thing you can’t skip: PTA Tax.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has made it mandatory to pay tax for mobile phone registration to ensure every device is legally imported and used.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything about PTA Mobile Tax, including rates, payment methods, and how to register your phone easily in 2026.

What is PTA Mobile Tax?

The PTA Mobile Tax is a government-imposed duty that applies when importing or registering mobile phones in Pakistan.

The aim is to stop illegal imports, maintain security, and increase national revenue through the DIRBS system (Device Identification Registration and Blocking System). It ensures:

  • Tax revenue collection
  • Legal imports
  • IMEI verification
  • Prevention of smuggled devices

Simply put, if your mobile phone isn’t PTA-approved, it may stop working on Pakistani networks after a few weeks. That’s why paying your PTA Mobile Tax and registering your device is a must.

Mobile Tax Rates PTA (APPROXIMATE)

Device Value (USD)PTA Tax (Passport)PTA Tax (CNIC)
Up to $30PKR 430PKR 550
$31–$100PKR 3,200PKR 4,323
$101–$200PKR 9,580PKR 11,561
$201–$350PKR 12,200PKR 14,661
$351–$500PKR 17,800PKR 23,420
Above $500PKR 27,600PKR 37,007

How PTA Tax is Calculated (With Example)

PTA tax is calculated based on:

  • Device declared value (USD)
  • Customs duty
  • Regulatory duty
  • Sales tax (GST)
  • Income tax
  • Mobile levy

Premium phones like the iPhone 15 Pro Max PTA tax in Pakistan or the Samsung S24 Ultra PTA tax in Pakistan are higher due to value slabs. The higher the phone’s value, the higher the tax.

PTA Tax Calculation Formula (Simplified)

Example:

If a phone’s declared value is USD 500:

  • Customs Duty
  • Regulatory Duty
  • 18% GST
  • Income Tax (Filer or Non-Filer rate)

Total payable tax may range between PKR 70,000 and 100,000, depending on the category. You can also use the official pta tax calculator 2026 on DIRBS.

Why is PTA tax important in 2026?

The digital economy in Pakistan is booming, and thousands of new smartphones enter the country every month. Unfortunately, many arrive through grey channels — without proper duties.

  1. The PTA Tax 2026 ensures transparency, security, and fair trade. More importantly, it helps the government track devices to prevent theft and smuggling.
  2. Mobile phone taxes are not isolated charges. They work the same way as other government taxes collected from individuals and businesses.
  3. Revenue generated through PTA-linked mobile registration contributes to the national tax pool, similar to how income tax in Pakistan funds public services, infrastructure, and economic development.
  4. This behavior aligns with how salaried individuals calculate and pay their dues using tools like a salary tax calculator in Pakistan to stay compliant with FBR regulations.

Think of it as your phone’s passport — no tax, no network access!

How to Check PTA Mobile Tax Price Online

Checking the PTA tax price for your mobile is now easier with the official DIRBS portal and PTA-approved methods. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the DIRBS Portal: Go to https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk
  2. Enter Your Mobile IMEI Number: You can find this by dialing *#06# on your phone.
  3. Submit Your Details: Click on “Check Status” to view your mobile’s PTA approval status.
  4. View PTA Tax Price: The portal will display the tax amount, including any applicable GST, and whether the phone is PTA-approved.

Tips:

  • Always use the official DIRBS portal to avoid fake PTA approval scams.
  • Keep your IMEI ready to avoid errors.
  • Mobile models like iPhone XR, Samsung A56, and Honor 200 Lite will show exact PTA tax price.

How to PTA Mobile Tax Online in Pakistan

Paying PTA tax online is simple, and you can do it via mobile apps or banking platforms:

Steps to Pay PTA Mobile Tax Online:

  1. Open a banking app or digital wallet (JazzCash, Easypaisa, HBL, UBL, etc.)
  2. Navigate to PTA Mobile Tax Payment section
  3. Enter IMEI Number of your phone
  4. Verify mobile model and PTA-approved price
  5. Pay the calculated tax (including GST)
  6. Receive a digital receipt with PTA approval for your mobile

Important Points:

  • Always confirm the IMEI and mobile model before paying
  • Keep a screenshot of the receipt for future reference
  • DIRBS registration should be done after payment to activate the phone in Pakistan

Estimated PTA Tax Rates for 2026

Device Price Range (USD)Approx. PTA Tax (PKR)Registration Type
Up to $1004,000 – 5,000Passport
$101 – $2008,000 – 10,000Passport
$201 – $35015,000 – 18,000Passport
$351 – $50025,000 – 30,000Passport
$501 – $70035,000 – 45,000Passport
Above $70050,000 – 60,000+Passport
CNIC-based registration15–25% higherLocal citizens

(Note: Rates are approximate and may vary based on USD exchange rate and government policy updates.)

Key Points to Remember

  • PTA tax must be paid within 60 days of bringing the phone to Pakistan.
  • One device can be registered duty-free each year (for travelers).
  • Unregistered phones may lose network signals permanently.
  • Always check your IMEI before buying or importing a phone.

Passport vs. CNIC Registration: What’s the Difference?

This is one of the most asked questions about PTA Tax.

When registering with a passport, the tax is lower because it applies to imported personal devices brought by travelers. With a CNIC, the rates are higher as they apply to locally purchased or couriered phones.

So, if you’re planning to buy a phone from abroad, ask your relative to register it under their passport — it’ll save you a few thousand rupees!

PTA Tax Rates on CNIC (2026)

If registering under CNIC:

  • Valid for residents of Pakistan
  • Standard tax rates apply
  • Higher than passport registration in most cases
  • Limited devices allowed per year

PTA Tax Rates on Passport (2026)

If registering under passport:

  • Usually for overseas Pakistanis
  • Lower tax slab compared to CNIC
  • Limited time validity (60 days temporary approval)
  • Limited number of devices per passport per year

Always confirm eligibility before selecting passport option in DIRBS.

How to Check PTA Tax by IMEI (SMS Method)

Besides online checking, you can verify via SMS.

Step-by-Step SMS Method

  1. Dial *#06# to get your IMEI
  2. Send IMEI number to 8484
  3. You will receive a confirmation message regarding PTA status

You can also check online through the DIRBS portal of PTA.

Step-by-step guide showing a mobile phone screen demonstrating How to Check PTA Tax by IMEI (SMS Method) with SMS verification process and tax status check, illustrated for users by Company Registration Pakistan.

How Much PTA Tax on an iPhone?

iPhone ModelPTA Tax (PKR)PTA Approved Price (PKR)
iPhone XR28,000128,000
iPhone 1345,000220,000
iPhone 1460,000330,000

Tips:

  • New iPhone releases will have updated PTA tax; always check the DIRBS PTA tax calculator before purchase.
  • PTA tax is separate from GST and shipping charges.

What is the 18% GST in Pakistan?

The 18% GST on mobile phones is applied on imported phones, including the PTA tax:

  • It is calculated on the total declared value of the phone, including the cost, shipping, and customs duty.
  • Example: If the mobile’s price is PKR 100,000, GST = 18,000 PKR
  • PTA tax is added on top of GST to get the final tax payable

Key Notes:

  • GST is a government tax for customs and is mandatory for all imported mobiles
  • It is included in the DIRBS PTA tax calculation for each model

DIRBS PTA Tax Calculator

The DIRBS PTA Tax Calculator allows users to calculate the exact tax for their phones:

  1. Visit https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk
  2. Enter mobile IMEI and model
  3. The system will display:
    • PTA tax
    • 18% GST
    • Total payable tax
  4. Use this information to pay PTA tax online via JazzCash, Easypaisa, or bank portals

PTA Tax on Popular Mobile Models 2026

Mobile ModelPTA Tax (PKR)PTA Approved Price (PKR)
Samsung A5612,00065,000
Samsung A5410,50058,000
Samsung S2028,500145,000
Honor 400 Lite6,50035,000
Honor 200 Lite5,00028,000
Honor X9D 5G9,50050,000
Moto G35 5G5,50030,000
iPhone XR28,000128,000
iPhone 1345,000220,000
iPhone 1460,000330,000

What Happens If You Don’t Pay PTA Tax?

Skipping PTA Tax might sound tempting, but it comes at a cost.

If your phone isn’t registered, PTA will block its IMEI number, meaning your device won’t connect to any local SIM network. You can still use Wi-Fi, but forget making calls or using data.

Avoid the hassle—register early and keep your phone fully functional!

Tips to Avoid Fake PTA Approvals

Sadly, scammers often sell phones claiming “PTA approved” — but not all are genuine.

Here’s how to stay safe:

  • Always verify on the official PTA portal.
  • Never trust screenshots or fake messages.
  • Avoid unauthorized dealers offering “instant PTA approval.”
  • Keep your payment receipt safe.

Impact of PTA Tax on Mobile Market

The PTA Tax system has reshaped Pakistan’s smartphone market. While it increased costs for some, it also encouraged official imports, improved after-sales service, and boosted government revenue.

Authorized dealers now sell verified devices with warranty, giving consumers peace of mind and reducing the circulation of stolen phones.

Check out Company Registration today and make your business compliant the smart way.

Latest 2026 Updates on PTA Tax

In 2026, PTA introduced enhanced digital integration with FBR and banks, making registration faster and more transparent.

Also, DIRBS now verifies devices automatically at airport entries for travelers, minimizing manual steps. The government plans to introduce QR-based approval certificates soon to prevent tampering.

So, if you’ve been delaying registration, now’s the time to act!

PTA Tax for Filers vs Non-Filers (ATL Difference)

In Pakistan, PTA mobile tax varies depending on whether you are listed on the Active Taxpayer List (ATL) maintained by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

If you are an income tax filer (ATL member), you usually pay lower PTA tax compared to non-filers.

What is ATL?

ATL stands for Active Taxpayer List. It is a list published by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) containing the names of individuals who regularly file income tax returns.

Being on ATL gives you tax benefits across various sectors—including mobile registration.

PTA Tax Difference – Filer vs Non-Filer

CategoryTax Rate Impact
Filer (ATL)Lower customs & regulatory duty
Non-FilerHigher total tax payable

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

No, PTA tax is generally non-refundable once paid.

Usually 1–3 working days after payment confirmation.

Yes, but there are annual limits defined by PTA.

Your mobile device will be blocked and will not work on Pakistani SIM networks.

Yes. Most provinces allow verification using only the registration number.

Yes. All official excise portals offer free vehicle verification.

Usually 2–4 weeks, depending on verification and printing status.

Conclusion

The PTA Mobile Tax ensures that every mobile phone in Pakistan is genuine, secure, and legally approved. It’s more than just a fee—it’s your device’s ticket to connectivity.

By following this guide, you can easily check, pay, and verify your phone’s tax online without confusion. Stay smart, stay compliant, and keep your phone connected — the legal and right way!

Remember: a few minutes of online registration can save you from endless network issues later.