Why it's called "PTA tax"
Every phone used on a Pakistani mobile network has to be registered with the PTA's DIRBS system. Phones bought in Pakistan from official dealers are already registered. If you bring a phone from abroad, or buy a "non-PTA" phone, you have to register it and pay the import taxes yourself. People call this the PTA tax, though the money actually goes to FBR and customs.
What makes up the tax
The total is several separate charges added together. Each one depends on the phone's value in US dollars:
| Phone value | Regulatory duty | Sales tax | Income tax (CNIC) | Mobile levy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Up to $30 | Rs 240 | 18% | Rs 100 | Rs 100 |
| $31 – 100 | Rs 2,400 | 18% | Rs 100 | Rs 200 |
| $101 – 200 | Rs 6,000 | 18% | Rs 100 | Rs 200 |
| $201 – 350 | Rs 8,800 | 18% | Rs 970 | Rs 1,800 |
| $351 – 500 | Rs 12,000 | 18% | Rs 5,000 | Rs 4,000 |
| $501 – 700 | Rs 17,600 | 25% | Rs 11,500 | Rs 8,000 |
| Above $700 | Rs 17,600 | 25% | Rs 11,500 | Rs 16,000 |
Sales tax is charged on the full rupee value of the phone. Income tax is only charged if you register on your CNIC; it's waived for registration on a passport within the allowed period after you arrive in Pakistan.
Passport or CNIC?
If you've just returned from abroad, registering on your passport is cheaper. You save the income tax portion, and you avoid fines that may apply on the CNIC route. After the window closes, the only option is your CNIC.
What is the "phone value"?
FBR doesn't use the price you paid. It uses its own assessed value for each model and storage size, set in US dollars and updated from time to time. A used phone may be assessed lower than a new one. If you don't know the exact figure, use the phone's launch price in dollars as a rough guide, but the real tax may differ.
How to pay
- Dial *8484# from the phone to check whether it's registered.
- Apply through the DIRBS website to get a payment slip (PSID).
- Pay the PSID through your bank app, ATM or a bank branch.
- Within a day or two, the phone should be registered and work on all networks.
Is it worth it?
For mid-range phones, registering is often worthwhile. For flagship phones, the tax can be a third or more of the phone's value, and many people end up buying a locally sold PTA-approved model instead. Compare the local price with the overseas price plus the tax from this calculator before you decide.
PTA duties are changed by SRO more often than income tax rates. Treat this result as an estimate and confirm the exact amount on DIRBS before paying.
Common mistakes
- Using the purchase price instead of FBR's value. The tax is based on FBR's assessed value, which can be higher or lower than what you paid.
- Missing the passport window. If you wait too long after arriving, the cheaper passport route closes and you have to register on CNIC.
- Paying through unofficial agents. Only pay against a PSID generated through DIRBS or an official channel. Agents offering "cheap PTA" may be using cloned IMEIs that get blocked later.
- Forgetting the second SIM slot. Dual-SIM phones have two IMEIs. Make sure both are covered in the registration.
Related calculators
- Mobile and internet tax calculator, for the tax you'll pay on loads once the phone is registered.
- Filer vs non-filer guide, since non-filers pay much more on mobile usage.
- All calculators, for every other tax tool on the site.
Frequently asked questions
Is PTA tax cheaper on passport or CNIC?
Passport is cheaper because no income tax is charged, provided you register within the allowed period after arriving.
Why is sales tax higher on expensive phones?
Phones valued above US$500 attract 25% sales tax instead of 18%.
Does the price I paid matter?
No. FBR uses its own assessed value for each model and storage size.
How do I check if my phone is registered?
Dial *8484# from the phone and enter its IMEI number, or check on the DIRBS website.
Rates: Income Tax Ordinance 2001 and its schedules as amended by the Finance Act 2026, plus FBR's withholding tax rate card for Tax Year 2027. Results are estimates. Check with FBR or a tax adviser before acting on them.