FBR Offers Free Mobile Registration for Overseas Pakistanis

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), in coordination with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), has introduced a free, fully digital mobile registration system for overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors. This user-friendly system lets travellers register their mobile phones tax-free for up to 120 days, ensuring seamless mobile connectivity during their stay.

• Eligibility: Overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals on short visits

• Validity: Up to 120 days per visit; one device per person 

• Service fee: Zero—completely free under FBR policy

• Platform: Online Device Registration System (DRS) via DIRBS portal 

• Partners: PTA, FBR, FIA, and mobile operators

• Verification: Real-time coordination with FIA’s IBMS to confirm passport entry stamps

• Sign up on the DIRBS portal: Visit dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs and create an account.

• Provide travel and device details: Submit passport number, entry and departure dates, local SIM, and IMEI

• Automated verification: FIA’s border system confirms arrival.

• Receive approval: The Device gets registered for up to 120 days.

• Expiry and re-registration: Post-120 days, service is suspended. Users returning will need to reapply

Uninterrupted mobile usage
Visitors can make calls, use data, and access essential services without disruption 

Cost-free and digital
No paperwork or travel to offices—fully online service 

Anti-smuggling support
Ties with FIA and FBR systems help curb device smuggling 

Boost to tourism and diaspora
Improves ease of travel and sends a welcoming message abroad.

• 150% increase in overseas visits during holidays this year

• The previous short-term allowance was 60 days per SIM slot (cumulatively 120 days) 

• The new system formalizes and extends this through a single, automated mechanism

Reddit users confirm ease and efficacy:

“You get 60 days to register your phone… Doesn’t matter if you leave before that or not… If you have two sim card slots, that makes it 120 days.” 

“PTA has introduced temporary mobile registration for visitors .which allows them to use Pakistani sim on their devices during their stay for 120 days without paying the Tax.”

• One-time 120-day registration per visit—not automatic across multiple visits

• Only one device per person can be registered.

• Post-expiry, the phone gets blocked on local networks until re-registration happens 

• SIM must be issued in the applicant’s name, aligning with the passport/ID used

• Digital inclusion: Aligns with Pakistan’s push for connectivity and e-governance.

• Revenue protection discourages illegal imports and unregistered devices.

• Tech integration: Signals smoother collaboration across FBR, PTA, FIA, and telcos.

• Tourism enhancement: Makes Pakistan more appealing to international visitors and diaspora

The new free temporary mobile registration for overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals is a major step toward ease of travel and digital convenience. With no fees, full automation, and generous 120-day validity, the system ensures visitors remain connected, supported, and welcomed. This innovation positions Pakistan as a tech-savvy, tourist-friendly nation, ready for the growing global diaspora.