This article is reviewed regularly by Wego’s editorial team to ensure that the content is up to date & accurate.
Updated August 2025
Key takeaways:
If you’re a resident or using a foreign device in Pakistan, you need to register your mobile online.
Tourists under 60 days are exempt; overseas Pakistanis can use a personal phone for up to 120 days.
Register at the Device Identification, Registration & Blocking System (DIRBS) online portal.
PTA (Pakistan Telecommunication Authority) regulates the telecommunication sector in Pakistan. Mobile registration with PTA is required to prevent your phone from being blocked or confiscated. This applies to all mobile devices that are imported, purchased, or brought into Pakistan.
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Who needs PTA registration (and who is exempt)?
Residents
If you live in Pakistan or are moving back home, register imported devices via DIRBS. Where timelines or duties apply, always verify on the official portal.
Exempt
Tourists
Short stays under 60 days typically do not require device registration. For longer stays, register the device through DIRBS before the grace window ends.
Overseas Pakistanis
If you’re visiting, you can use your own device for 120 days. Planning to keep using it beyond that? Apply via DIRBS under the relevant temporary registration category.
How to register online via DIRBS
- Go to the DIRBS portal and sign in or create an account if you do not have one already.
- Select the correct option (e.g., Temporary registration for Overseas Pakistanis/Foreigners) if applicable.
- Enter required details: number of SIM slots and IMEI(s) (dual-SIM phones have two IMEIs).
- Enter the OTP sent to your phone/email and then click ‘Submit’.
- Wait for verification; your device (IMEI) will show as registered when approved.
Fees & duties: Some categories may involve duties/levies even if the act of registration itself is shown as no fee in certain cases; confirm on the portal for your category.
What you need (documents & IMEI)
Have these handy before you start:
- IMEI(s) for your device (two for dual-SIM).
- Valid ID: CNIC/NICOP or Passport (per your category).
- Local mobile number and email to receive the OTP.
Find your IMEI
- Dial *#06# on your phone.
- Or check Settings → About phone → IMEI.
- Or see the device box/SIM tray.
- Dual-SIM devices have two IMEIs; enter both.
Check registration status
- SMS: Send your IMEI to 8484 from within Pakistan.
- Website: Use the PTA device status checker.
- Mobile app: DVS (Device Verification System) on your Android or iOS devices.
Common responses and what they mean:
- Compliant / Registered: You’re good to go.
- Non-compliant / Unregistered: Register the device via DIRBS.
- Blocked: IMEI blocked; follow PTA’s recovery/unblocking steps.
FAQs
Do tourists need to register?
Not if staying under 60 days. For stays beyond 60 days, register via DIRBS.
I’m an overseas Pakistani. What’s my window?
Use your personal phone for up to 120 days after arrival; register if you plan to use it longer.
Is there a fee?
The portal may show no fee to submit registration for some categories, but duties/levies can apply depending on the device and user type.
How do I know my status?
SMS 8484, check on the PTA website, or use the DVS app.
My phone shows “blocked.” What now?
Follow PTA’s official unblocking/recovery guidance.
Prefer watching the steps? See this video guide from PTA.
