Bringing a phone from abroad to Pakistan in 2025? You’ll need to check its PTA tax by IMEI to keep it working on local networks. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) requires all imported mobile devices to be registered, and missing this step could leave your phone blocked.
Don’t worry—this guide makes it simple to check your PTA tax using your IMEI number, even if you’re new to the process. Let’s dive in!
Why Check PTA Tax for Imported Phones?
Imported phones aren’t automatically registered with PTA like locally bought ones. Without paying the tax, your device gets a 60-day grace period before it’s blocked from Pakistani SIMs.
Checking your PTA tax by IMEI tells you if your phone is compliant or how much you’ll need to pay to keep it active. It’s a must-know for travelers, overseas Pakistanis, or anyone grabbing a deal from Dubai or the US.
Step 1: Find Your IMEI Number
Your IMEI is a 15-digit code unique to your phone. Here’s how to get it:
- **Dial *#06#**: Type this into your phone’s dialer and hit call—your IMEI will appear instantly.
- Settings: Go to “Settings” > “About Phone” > “IMEI” (steps vary slightly by phone).
- Box or Receipt: Check the original packaging or purchase slip if you still have it.
Write it down—you’ll need it soon.
Step 2: Check PTA Tax by IMEI
Once you’ve got your IMEI, here’s how to check the tax:
- Visit DIRBS: Go to dirbs.pta.gov.pk, PTA’s official site for device registration.
- Enter IMEI: Look for the IMEI check box, type in your number, and hit “Check.”
- SMS Backup: Text your IMEI to 8484 for a quick reply with your status.
In seconds, you’ll see if your phone is:
- PTA-Approved: Good to go!
- Non-Compliant: Tax payment needed.
- Blocked: Time to troubleshoot with PTA.
Step 3: Pay the PTA Tax (If Needed)
If your imported phone isn’t registered, follow these steps:
- Sign Up on DIRBS: Create an account with your CNIC and phone details.
- Input IMEI: Add your IMEI to see the tax amount—based on your phone’s value.
- Pay Online or Offline: Use a bank card on DIRBS or get a PSID to pay at a bank.
- Wait for Approval: Once paid, your phone gets registered within a day or two.
PTA Tax Rates for Imported Phones in 2025
Tax depends on your phone’s price. Here’s a rough idea:
- Budget phones (up to $50): PKR 5,000–10,000.
- Mid-range ($100–$300): PKR 25,000–40,000.
- Premium ($500+): PKR 80,000–120,000+.
Check out our PTA TAX CALCULATOR for the exact amount—rates can shift with currency changes.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Waiting Too Long: Don’t let the 60-day grace period expire—check your IMEI as soon as you arrive.
- Wrong IMEI: Double-check your number; a typo means wrong results.
- Ignoring Blocks: If your phone’s already blocked, don’t panic—contact PTA support at 0800-55055.
Why This Matters in 2025
With stricter PTA rules this year, imported phones face quicker blocks if unregistered. Checking your PTA tax by IMEI early saves you hassle and keeps your device running. Plus, it’s free and takes just a minute—why risk it?
Got Questions?
Have you checked your IMEI yet? Drop your experience below—I’ll help with any hiccups! Whether it’s an iPhone from the US or a Samsung from Dubai, this trick works for all imported phones in Pakistan
