How to Check & Pay PTA Tax Online in Pakistan?

October 6, 2025
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Government Services Guides, Smartphones & Accessories
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When purchasing a mobile phone in Pakistan or bringing one from abroad, ensuring it is properly registered with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is not just a formality, but a legal obligation. This registration is essential for accessing mobile network services in the country and helps prevent penalties or device blockages. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire process of paying the PTA tax online in Pakistan, how to check your device’s PTA status, and much more.

What is PTA Tax and Why Is It Important?

PTA tax is a mandatory fee that all mobile phone users must pay to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in order to ensure their mobile phones are legally registered. The PTA imposes this tax to prevent the use of smuggled or illegal devices within Pakistan’s mobile network. PTA determines the tax amount based on various factors such as the device’s brand, model, and market value. The PTA taxes more premium devices, such as the latest iPhone models, at a higher rate compared to standard models.

Why PTA Tax Matters

Legal Use: Paying the PTA tax and registering your device ensures it will not be blocked from the network. Without registration, your phone will be restricted from using SIM services, which is a significant inconvenience.
Avoid Penalties: Ensuring your device is PTA-approved protects you from hefty penalties associated with the illegal use of unregistered devices.
Network Access: Only PTA-approved devices can connect to the mobile network in Pakistan. If your phone is not registered, you will not be able to make calls, use the internet, or send messages.

Understanding the DIRBS System

The PTA developed the Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking System (DIRBS) to facilitate the registration and verification of mobile devices. DIRBS ensures that only legally registered devices can access mobile networks in Pakistan.

How DIRBS Works

Identification: The DIRBS system identifies devices by their unique IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number.
Registration: You must register devices brought into Pakistan through DIRBS to ensure compliance with PTA regulations.
Blocking: DIRBS blocks devices identified as smuggled or unregistered, preventing them from accessing mobile networks.

By using DIRBS, the PTA effectively monitors the legality of all mobile devices in the country, preventing the use of non-registered phones and illegal imports.

How to Pay PTA Tax Online in Pakistan

The DIRBS portal makes paying PTA tax online simple and accessible. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make this payment from the comfort of your home:

Step 1: Find Your IMEI Number

To start, you need to know the IMEI number of the mobile device. The DIRBS portal makes paying PTA tax online easy and accessible.

To find your IMEI number, simply dial *#06# on your mobile device. The 15-digit IMEI number will appear on the screen.

Step 2: Visit the PTA Official Website

Once you have your IMEI number, go to the official PTA website.

In the DIRBS section on the PTA website, you will find the Mobile Registration option.
Click on the Mobile Registration (DIRBS) link to begin the process.

Step 3: Register or Log Into Your PTA Account

If you are a new user, you must create an account by selecting the correct user type (either local or international traveler) and filling out the registration form with the required details.
If you have already registered, log into your account by entering your credentials.

Step 4: Apply for Certificate of Compliance (COC)

Once logged in, select the Individual COC option from the left-hand menu and click on Apply for COC.
This action will take you to the Certificate of Compliance application page.
Choose your user type (local or international traveler), then enter your IMEI number, operator details, and other relevant information such as region, contact number, and SIM slots (single, dual, or more).

Step 5: Complete the Application and Generate PSID

After filling in all required information, click submit.
The PTA system will generate a 17-digit PSID (Payment Slip ID) and provide you with the customs payment amount for your device.
The PSID serves as a unique reference number for tax payment and is necessary to complete the transaction.

Step 6: Make the PTA Tax Payment

With the PSID, you can pay the PTA tax at various payment outlets:
- Banks: Visit any branch of participating banks to pay your tax.
- Online Banking: Pay through online banking services using your PSID.
- ATMs: Use your PSID at participating ATMs to complete the payment.
- Mobile Banking: You can also make payments via mobile banking apps.

Step 7: Confirmation of Payment

Once you have made the payment, your device’s PTA registration status will be updated in the DIRBS system. You will receive confirmation that the PTA has fully registered your device and approved it for use on the Pakistani mobile network.

How to Check If Your Device Is PTA-Approved

Verifying your mobile device’s PTA approval is crucial to ensure it can access the mobile network without any issues. To check the PTA approval status of your device, follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the DIRBS Portal

Go to the official DIRBS portal provided by the PTA.

Step 2: Enter the IMEI Number

In the Check Status section on the DIRBS portal, enter your 15-digit IMEI number.

Step 3: Check Your Device’s Status

Click on the Check button. The system displays your device’s status, indicating whether you have it approved or not.

Approved: You have registered your device, and you can use it with any network in Pakistan.
Not Approved: If you haven’t registered your device, you must pay the PTA tax and complete the registration process.

Understanding the PSID Number

The PTA generates the PSID (Payment Slip ID), a unique 17-digit reference number, after you submit your tax payment application. This number is crucial for completing payments through various channels, including bank branches, ATMs, and mobile banking apps. Without the PSID, you cannot finalize the tax payment process.

How to Use the PSID Number

Once you receive the PSID number, you can proceed with making the payment through:

Banks: Provide the PSID at the bank counter to complete your tax payment.
ATMs: Enter the PSID in the ATM for payment processing.
Online Banking: Use the PSID in the online banking portal to make the payment.
Mobile Banking: Pay through mobile banking applications using your PSID.

Common FAQs About PTA Tax and Mobile Registration

How to Check the IMEI Status?

Dial *#06# on your phone to get the IMEI number.

How to Check If a Mobile Phone Is PTA-Approved or Not?

Visit the DIRBS portal, enter the IMEI number, and check the device’s status.

What Is the PSID Number?

The PSID is a 17-digit Payment Slip ID that allows you to make payments for your PTA tax through banks, ATMs, and online/mobile banking services.

Can I Register a Smuggled or Stolen Device?

The DIRBS system blocks devices that are smuggled or stolen. Only devices that are legally imported and purchased can be registered for use on the network.

Conclusion: Stay Compliant with PTA Regulations

Registering your mobile phone with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and paying the PTA tax is a simple yet essential process that ensures legal use of mobile services in Pakistan. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can easily pay the PTA tax, check the status of your device, and ensure you comply with local laws.

Whether you’re bringing a device from abroad or purchasing one locally, ensuring your device is PTA-approved is essential for uninterrupted mobile service. By staying current with the DIRBS system and paying the required taxes, you protect yourself from potential penalties and network disruptions.

Also read: PTA Tax-Free Mobile Registration for Overseas Pakistanis Now

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