Does Wi-Fi work after a phone is blocked?

Yes. A blocked IMEI only loses access to cellular networks; Wi-Fi, apps and other functions continue to work.

Can I reset the grace period with a new SIM?

No. The grace period is tied to the device IMEI, not the SIM, so swapping SIMs does not extend it.

Does a cellular iPad or smartwatch get the same 60/120-day window as a phone?

Yes, any device with its own IMEI follows the same countdown. A Wi-Fi-only tablet or watch has no IMEI and is not affected at all.

Rules

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.

3 min read

Reviewed by Salman Ahmed·Updated 27 August 2026

Local 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.

Tablets and smartwatches follow the same clock

Any cellular device with its own IMEI, an LTE iPad, an LTE tablet, or a Cellular smartwatch, runs on the same 60-day local SIM and 120-day roaming countdown as a phone. Wi-Fi-only devices have no IMEI and are not on this clock at all.

What actually happens right at the deadline

There is no final warning call, the IMEI simply stops authenticating on local cellular networks once the window closes. Mobile data and calls/SMS on that SIM stop working immediately; the phone itself is not damaged, and everything resumes normally the moment the tax is paid and DIRBS marks it compliant.