How do I register a phone with PTA and pay the tax?
A phone is registered on PTA’s DIRBS at dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs, by dialling *8484#, or at a mobile operator’s franchise or customer service centre; the system issues a payment slip (PSID) with the official tax, which you pay at a bank or by app.
Step by step
- Dial *#06# and note every IMEI the phone shows.
- Open dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs (or dial *8484#, or visit a franchise) and choose passport or CNIC.
- Enter the IMEIs and the details it asks for.
- DIRBS issues a payment slip (PSID) with the official amount. Pay it at a bank or by app.
- After paying, check each IMEI again by SMS to 8484.
How much it will cost
The amount depends on the phone’s assessed value, the customs exchange rate on the day, and whether you register by passport or CNIC. For an estimate, see the tax calculator and the slab table; the amount on the PSID is final.
Good to know
- There are no registration counters at airports; PTA says registration can be done online within 60 days of arrival.
- Overseas Pakistanis and foreigners on a short visit can temporarily register one phone for 120 days; it needs a Pakistani mobile number issued in their own name.
- PTA helpline: 0800-55055.
Questions
Can I register a phone at the airport?
No. PTA says there are no registration counters at airports; register online within 60 days of arrival.
Where do I see the official tax?
On the payment slip (PSID) that DIRBS issues after you enter the IMEI and your details. Any calculator, ours included, gives an estimate.
Sources
- PTA DIRBS: registration via dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs, USSD *8484# or operator franchises; 60 days; helpline
- PTA DIRBS: Device Registration System
- PTA DIRBS FAQs: temporary registration for overseas Pakistanis and foreigners
Last checked 26 Oct 2026. Estimate. The amount on your DIRBS payment slip (PSID) is final. Not affiliated with PTA or FBR.