The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have taken a significant step to facilitate mobile phone users coming from abroad. Under the newly launched temporary registration service, foreign visitors can now use their mobile phones in Pakistan for up to 120 days without having to pay the PTA tax.
Simplified Procedure to Boost Tourism
The primary objective of this initiative is to make it easier for foreign nationals to visit Pakistan, be it for tourism, business, or personal reasons. With the temporary registration service in place, travelers can enjoy the convenience of using their mobile phones throughout their stay without the burden of additional taxes.
Dignitaries Present at the Launch
The official launch of this service witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, PTA Chairman Maj Gen (R) Hafeez ur Rehman, Federal Minister of IT & Telecom Syed Aminul Haque, and other key officials were among those who attended the inauguration ceremony.
Application Requirements
To avail themselves of this service, applicants need to provide the following essential information:
- Passport number: The unique identification number on the traveler’s passport is required for identification and registration purposes.
- Mobile SIM card in their name: The traveler must possess a valid SIM card registered in their name.
- Arrival and departure dates: The specific dates of the traveler’s entry and exit from Pakistan need to be provided.
- IMEI number of the device: The IMEI number of the mobile device they wish to use during their stay must be submitted.
120 Days Grace Period
Once successfully registered, travelers can utilize their mobile phones on local networks without any limitations for a period of 120 days. This grace period is intended to accommodate the needs of foreign visitors during their stay in Pakistan.
Collaboration Between FBR, PTA, and FIA
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) have collaborated to implement this service seamlessly. Through this joint effort, immigration data is exchanged, and applicants’ arrival dates are validated via FIA’s Integrated Border Management System (IBMS). Once the immigration officials have entered the applicant’s information into the system, their phones are activated for use within the country.
Boosting Connectivity and Supporting Pakistanis Abroad
This project reflects the government’s commitment to assist Pakistanis living abroad and to create a more connected and technologically inclusive environment in the country. By allowing foreign visitors to use their mobile phones effortlessly, Pakistan aims to enhance its appeal as a welcoming destination for travelers from around the world.
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The temporary registration service for mobile phones represents a progressive step towards enhancing Pakistan’s tourism and business sectors. With a simple application process and a 120-day grace period, foreign visitors can now stay connected throughout their time in the country without the burden of additional taxes. This initiative highlights the government’s dedication to fostering a more technologically inclusive society and furthering the nation’s growth on the global stage.
