Are you planning a trip to Pakistan or bringing a new smartphone from abroad? Understanding PTA’s mobile registration system is crucial to ensure your device works seamlessly during your stay. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about registering your mobile device in Pakistan, whether you’re a resident or an overseas Pakistani.
Why Register Your Mobile Phone with PTA?
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) requires all mobile devices to be registered to:
- Ensure legal compliance and prevent the use of smuggled devices
- Maintain uninterrupted network service across all Pakistani carriers
- Enhance security by tracking and reducing the use of stolen devices
- Protect the local market and ensure proper taxation
Without proper registration, your device will eventually be blocked from accessing local networks, leaving you unable to make calls, send texts, or use mobile data.
Good News for Overseas Pakistanis and Foreign Visitors!
As of April 2025, the PTA has enhanced its Temporary Mobile Registration System. If you’re visiting Pakistan temporarily:
- You can register and use your personal mobile device for up to 120 days per visit
- This temporary registration is completely free of cost
- The process is fully digitized for maximum convenience
This user-friendly system https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs ensures visitors enjoy uninterrupted connectivity during their stay in Pakistan.
What is DIRBS?
Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System’s (DIRBS) is a mobile device ecosystem implemented by PTA to ensure that only type approved and legal devices are operational over mobile networks in Pakistan.
How to Check if Your Phone Needs Registration
Before starting the registration process, you need to check your device’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number and verify its status:
Finding Your IMEI Number
- *Dial #06# on your phone’s keypad
- Check your phone’s box where the IMEI is typically printed
- Look in your phone settings under “About Phone” section
| Message | Explanation | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Your mobile device IMEI is compliant (PTA Approved) | This message indicates that the mobile device is PTA compliant. so you can continue to enjoy any network’s services. | No action is required as the device is compliant |
| Your mobile device IMEI is Non-Compliant | This message indicates that IMEI programmed on your device is non-standard therefore flagged as non-compliant by PTA. | All such devices will be blocked by PTA within 60 days of first seen date on network after 15th Jan 2019. You are requested to buy a new mobile phone to continue using network services. |
| Your device IMEI is Valid but not PTA approved | This message indicates that IMEI of the device is a GSMA standard number however it was brought into the county via informal channels and therefore was not registered at PTA. | Users in possession of such mobile devices will be required to use one of the following procedures to get device registered. For registration of device through PTA, all subjected individuals can sign up on https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs or dial *8484# to check for applicable duty tax. Disclaimer: As per policy user can bring maximum of 5 devices in personal capacity per year. Only 1 device will be allowed duty free in one calendar year per traveler. |
| Device IMEI was observed non-compliant as of 15th January 2019. IMEI has been paired with your mobile number and device will remain operational. | This message indicates that IMEI programmed on your device is non-standard therefore flagged as non-compliant by PTA. However all users of such devices who were observed active on Pakistani mobile networks before 15th January 2019 have been paired with their mobile numbers and shall continue to use mobile services with no handset blocking. | Such paired IMEIs/mobiles will receive network services on the paired SIMs only. No action required by user. |
Verifying Your IMEI Status with PTA
Once you have your IMEI number, check if it’s already registered:
- Send an SMS: Text your IMEI number to 8484
- Visit PTA’s website: Use the IMEI check page
- Use the PTA DIRBS app: Download and verify directly
Based on the response, you’ll know if your device is:
- Compliant: Already registered and ready to use
- Non-Compliant: Needs registration
- Blocked: Reported stolen or smuggled
4 Easy Ways to Register Your Mobile Phone with PTA
1. USSD Method (Simplest Option)
- Dial *8484# on your device
- Select your preferred language
- Choose “Registration of Device”
- Specify whether you’re a Pakistani citizen or foreigner
- Indicate if your device is foreign or local
- Enter your CNIC or passport number
- Provide IMEI number(s) for all SIM slots
2. DIRBS Website Registration
- Visit the DIRBS official portal
- Create an account or login
- Select user type (Local or Foreigner)
- Enter your personal information (email, ID, contact details)
- Verify your email through the confirmation link
- Input your device IMEI
- Track your application status under “My Application”
3. Mobile App Registration
- Download the PTA DIRBS app from Google Play Store
- Install and open the app
- Follow the in-app instructions to enter your IMEI
- Complete the registration process as guided
4. Franchise Registration
Visit any customer service center of mobile carriers (Jazz, Telenor, Ufone, etc.) for in-person assistance with registration, particularly helpful if your IMEI is non-compliant or blocked.
Registration Fee and Payment
After submitting your application, you may need to pay a registration fee depending on your device’s model and value. Payment options include:
- Bank payment at designated banks
- Online payment through banking apps
- Mobile wallets like Easypaisa or JazzCash
Tips for a Smooth Registration Process
- Double-check information: Ensure your IMEI and personal details are accurate
- Keep necessary documents ready: CNIC/passport copy and proof of purchase
- Follow up on your application: Check status regularly through the DIRBS portal
- Contact PTA support if you encounter issues: Helpline 0800-55055 (Monday-Thursday: 9AM-3PM, Friday: 9AM-1PM & 2PM-3PM)
Common Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| IMEI Already in Use | Contact PTA as your phone’s IMEI may have been cloned |
| Payment Difficulties | Verify account details or contact your payment provider |
| Registration Declined | Review PTA’s feedback, correct errors, and resubmit |
Conclusion
Registering your mobile device with PTA is essential for anyone using a phone in Pakistan. For overseas Pakistanis and foreign visitors, the temporary 120-day registration provides a convenient solution during short stays.
By following this guide, you can ensure your mobile device remains compliant with Pakistani regulations and functions properly throughout your time in the country. The digitized registration process makes it easier than ever to stay connected while visiting Pakistan.
Have you registered your device with PTA? Share your experience in the comments below!
