How Long Can You Use a Non-PTA Phone in Pakistan?
The exact grace periods for local SIMs, international roaming and overseas visitors before a phone is blocked.
Reviewed by Salman Ahmed·Updated 15 June 2026Local SIM grace period
When you insert a local Pakistani SIM into an unregistered imported phone, it typically works for around 60 days. After that window, the IMEI is blocked unless the tax is paid and the device is registered.
International roaming
Visitors and overseas Pakistanis using an international SIM on roaming can generally use the device for up to 120 days before registration is required.
Why the clock starts
The countdown begins the first time the device is detected on a Pakistani network. Simply owning the phone does not start the timer; using it with any SIM in Pakistan does.
Avoiding a block
If you plan to keep the phone long-term, register and pay the tax before the grace period ends. Our model pages show the exact estimated tax so you can budget in advance.