With mobile prices constantly rising in Pakistan, many people look for cheaper alternatives such as imported or second-hand devices. While this may save money upfront, many buyers unknowingly end up with non-PTA approved phones that are blocked from local networks. If you’ve found yourself in this situation, don’t panic. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do if you’ve purchased a non-PTA phone.
What Is a Non-PTA Phone?
A non-PTA phone is a device that hasn’t been registered with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Without this approval, mobile devices are unable to connect to local cellular networks like Jazz, Zong, Telenor, or Ufone. These phones may work over Wi-Fi, but calling, SMS, and mobile data features will be blocked within 60 days of first SIM usage if not registered.
How to Check Your Phone’s PTA Status
The first step is to confirm the PTA status of your phone.
Here’s how:
- Dial *#06# to get your phone’s IMEI number.
- Visit the PTA DIRBS portal at: https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk
- Enter your IMEI to check the device status.
You’ll see one of these messages:
- Compliant – Device is PTA approved.
- Non-compliant – Device is not registered with PTA.
- Blocked – Device is blacklisted or reported stolen.
If your phone shows non-compliant, you’ll need to take further action to get it working on local networks.
Option 1: Pay the PTA Tax
The most direct way to make your non-PTA phone usable is by paying the applicable PTA tax. This officially registers your device and allows it to be used legally in Pakistan.
Steps to Pay the Tax:
- Visit the DIRBS PTA website and create an account.
- Log in and select “Device Registration”.
- Enter the IMEI number and your CNIC/passport details.
- The portal will show the tax amount based on your device’s brand and model.
- Pay the tax through ATM, mobile banking apps, or over-the-counter using the PSID code provided.
- After successful payment, the device is approved within 24–72 hours.
Note: iPhones and Samsung flagship phones usually have higher taxes, sometimes reaching Rs. 80,000 or more.
Option 2: Use It with Wi-Fi Only
If you don’t want to pay the tax immediately or at all, you can still use your non-PTA phone over Wi-Fi. Apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Zoom will work normally.
This is a viable option if:
- You use the phone as a secondary device.
- You primarily rely on internet calling.
- You want to delay paying the tax.
However, you won’t be able to use mobile data, regular calls, or SMS.
Option 3: Use Temporary SIM Access Before 60 Days
PTA allows a 60-day grace period from the time a SIM card is inserted into a new, non-PTA phone. During this time, the device can use local mobile networks.
Use this time to:
- Back up data from your old phone.
- Pay the tax if you decide to keep the device.
- Resell the device (disclose it is non-PTA to avoid legal issues).
After 60 days, SIM service will be blocked.
Option 4: Register Under Passport for One-Time Free Allowance
If you or someone you know is an overseas Pakistani, there’s a chance to get one phone registered free per year under their passport via DIRBS.
Requirements:
- The device must be brought into Pakistan by the traveler.
- You must register within 60 days of arrival.
- Submit your details through https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs.
This is a good workaround for getting one non-PTA phone approved without paying tax.
What Not to Do
- Don’t fall for “cheap PTA approval services” on social media. Most are scams.
- Don’t swap IMEIs. This is illegal and may damage your device or get it permanently blacklisted.
- Don’t ignore PTA messages. Once the 60-day period expires, the block is enforced automatically.
Can You Resell a Non-PTA Phone?
Yes, but you must clearly mention it is non-PTA approved to avoid misleading buyers. Non-PTA phones usually sell at 20–40% lower than their PTA-approved counterparts. It’s ideal to sell to someone who only needs Wi-Fi use or is willing to pay the tax.
Conclusion
Buying a non-PTA phone can be a setback, but it’s not the end of the world. Whether you choose to register the phone by paying the tax, use it over Wi-Fi, or get it approved through passport allowance, you have options. Just make sure you act within the 60-day window and avoid shady shortcuts. In the long run, having a PTA-compliant phone ensures uninterrupted mobile service and peace of mind.
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