Discover the complete guide to PTA taxes on iPhone mobiles (all models) in Pakistan for 2025. Learn about tax rates, registration processes, and tips to avoid penalties. Perfectly optimized for Pakistani users worldwide.
PTA Tax on iPhone Models in 2025
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) regulates mobile devices’ use in Pakistan, including imposing taxes on imported smartphones like iPhones. In 2025, changes in PTA’s tax policies have significantly impacted the cost of owning an iPhone. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of PTA taxes for various iPhone models, the registration process, and tips to save money.
What is PTA Tax?
PTA tax is a regulatory fee levied on mobile devices imported into Pakistan to ensure compliance with local telecom regulations. Devices not registered with PTA are blocked from accessing local cellular networks after a certain period.
Additional Details
- Eligibility: Applies to all non-PTA-approved smartphones brought into Pakistan.
- Payment Deadline: Within 60 days of inserting a local SIM.
- Exemptions: Devices used solely on Wi-Fi networks are exempt from registration but cannot access mobile services.
Related Link: What is DIRBS? A Guide to PTA’s Device Registration System
Why is PTA Tax Required?
- Revenue Generation: The PTA tax contributes significantly to the government’s revenue stream, helping fund telecom infrastructure and other national projects.
- Curbing Smuggling: It deters the influx of smuggled devices that harm the local economy and evade customs duties.
- IMEI Registration: Ensures that every device operates with a unique and valid IMEI number, enhancing security and reducing the risk of stolen devices being used.
Advantages for Consumers
- Increased network security.
- Reliable tracking and reduced risks of theft.
New Tax Rates for iPhones (2025)
The PTA mandates that all mobile devices, including iPhones, be registered for use within Pakistan. This registration involves a tax, varying by device model and the user’s status—whether they are listed on the Active Taxpayer List (ATL) or not. ATL individuals benefit from lower tax rates, while non-ATL individuals face higher charges.
PTA Tax Rates for iPhones
Below is a detailed breakdown of the approximate PTA tax rates for various iPhone models:
| iPhone Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 5 16GB | 33,200 | 46,800 |
| iPhone 5s 32GB | 43,100 | 56,680 |
| iPhone 6 64GB | 38,150 | 51,750 |
| iPhone 6 Plus 128GB | 48,100 | 61,600 |
| iPhone 7 128GB | 60,300 | 73,900 |
| iPhone 7 Plus 256GB | 71,100 | 84,750 |
| iPhone 8 64GB | 57,900 | 71,450 |
| iPhone 8 Plus 256GB | 70,200 | 83,800 |
| iPhone X | 62,800 | 76,400 |
| iPhone XR | 57,850 | 71,450 |
| iPhone XS Max | 77,600 | 91,200 |
| iPhone 11 | 67,300 | 86,700 |
| iPhone 11 Pro | 93,200 | 115,110 |
| iPhone 12 | 75,450 | 94,100 |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | 107,300 | 130,700 |
| iPhone 13 | 86,150 | 107,400 |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | 110,350 | 137,900 |
| iPhone 14 | 107,300 | 130,700 |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | 131,150 | 156,900 |
| iPhone 15 | 107,300 | 130,700 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 148,500 | 176,000 |
| iPhone 16 | 128,500 | 154,000 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 182,500 | 213,500 |
Note: These rates are approximate and subject to change. It’s advisable to consult the official PTA website or authorized sources for the most current information.
Source: PTA Taxes on iPhone Mobiles
Additional Notes:
- Passport Registration: Lower tax rates for travelers.
- CNIC Registration: Standard rates apply to local citizens.
Below is a comprehensive list of the approximate PTA tax rates for all iPhone models as of 2025:
PTA Tax oniPhone 16 Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | 128,500 | 154,000 |
| iPhone 16 Plus | 135,000 | 162,000 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 168,500 | 198,000 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 182,500 | 213,500 |
Source: Current PTA Tax Rates for iPhone 16 Series in Pakistan
PTA Tax oniPhone 15 Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 | 107,325 | 130,708 |
| iPhone 15 Plus | 113,075 | 137,033 |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 135,300 | 161,480 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 148,500 | 176,000 |
PTA Tax oniPhone 14 Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 14 | 107,300 | 130,700 |
| iPhone 14 Plus | 115,000 | 140,000 |
| iPhone 14 Pro | 140,000 | 170,000 |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | 150,000 | 180,000 |
PTA Tax oniPhone 13 Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 13 Mini | 80,000 | 100,000 |
| iPhone 13 | 86,150 | 107,400 |
| iPhone 13 Pro | 100,000 | 120,000 |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | 110,000 | 130,000 |
Source: iPhone All Models PTA Tax in Pakistan
PTA Tax oniPhone 12 Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 12 Mini | 70,000 | 90,000 |
| iPhone 12 | 75,450 | 94,100 |
| iPhone 12 Pro | 103,300 | 125,200 |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | 107,300 | 130,700 |
Source: HamariWeb – iPhone PTA Taxes in Pakistan (2024-25 Fiscal Year Breakdown)
PTA Tax oniPhone 11 Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 | 67,200 | 86,700 |
| iPhone 11 Pro | 93,200 | 115,200 |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | 95,000 | 117,000 |
PTA Tax oniPhone XS Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XS | 80,000 | 100,000 |
| iPhone XS Max | 85,000 | 105,000 |
PTA Tax oniPhone XR Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XR | 65,000 | 80,000 |
PTA Tax oniPhone X Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone X | 75,000 | 95,000 |
PTA Tax oniPhone SE Series
| Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE (2020) | 43,000 | 56,000 |
| iPhone SE (2022) | 50,000 | 65,000 |
PTA Tax oniPhone 9 Series
| Model | Passport Tax (PKR) | CNIC Tax (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 9 64GB | 60,350 | 73,950 |
| iPhone 9 256GB | 67,750 | 81,300 |
| iPhone 9 Plus 64GB | 65,250 | 78,850 |
| iPhone 9 Plus 256GB | 72,650 | 86,250 |
PTA Tax oniPhone 8 Series
| Model | Passport Tax (PKR) | CNIC Tax (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 8 64GB | 57,900 | 71,450 |
| iPhone 8 256GB | 66,900 | 80,550 |
| iPhone 8 Plus 64GB | 62,800 | 76,400 |
| iPhone 8 Plus 256GB | 70,200 | 83,800 |
PTA Tax oniPhone 7 Series
| Model | Passport Tax (PKR) | CNIC Tax (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 7 32GB | 55,400 | 69,000 |
| iPhone 7 128GB | 60,300 | 73,900 |
| iPhone 7 256GB | 65,200 | 78,900 |
| iPhone 7 Plus 32GB | 61,300 | 74,900 |
| iPhone 7 Plus 128GB | 66,250 | 79,850 |
| iPhone 7 Plus 256GB | 71,100 | 84,750 |
PTA Tax oniPhone 6 Series
| Model | Passport Tax (PKR) | CNIC Tax (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 6 16GB | 28,300 | 41,900 |
| iPhone 6 64GB | 38,150 | 51,750 |
| iPhone 6 128GB | 43,000 | 56,700 |
| iPhone 6 Plus 16GB | 38,150 | 51,750 |
| iPhone 6 Plus 64GB | 43,100 | 56,700 |
| iPhone 6 Plus 128GB | 48,100 | 61,600 |
PTA Tax oniPhone 5 Series
| Model | Passport Tax (PKR) | CNIC Tax (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 5 16GB | 33,200 | 46,800 |
| iPhone 5 32GB | 38,150 | 51,750 |
| iPhone 5 64GB | 43,100 | 56,650 |
| iPhone 5s 16GB | 37,990 | 51,600 |
| iPhone 5s 32GB | 43,100 | 56,680 |
| iPhone 5s 64GB | 48,000 | 61,600 |
How to Calculate PTA Tax for iPhones
PTA tax is calculated based on:
- Device Value: Higher-priced models incur higher taxes.
- Type of Registration: Taxes vary depending on whether the device is registered using a CNIC or Passport.
- Customs Duties: Additional fees may apply, depending on the method of import.
Example Calculation: Suppose you are importing an iPhone 15 Pro Max worth PKR 300,000. The PTA tax on this device would include customs duties and additional regulatory fees. If registered with a passport, the estimated tax would be PKR 135,000, bringing the total cost to PKR 435,000.
Tax Breakdown
- Base Tax: PKR 90,000.
- Regulatory Fee: PKR 30,000.
- Customs Duty: PKR 15,000.
How to Check PTA Tax for Your iPhone
You can check the exact PTA tax amount for your iPhone by:
- Using the DIRBS Portal:
- Visit https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/.
- Enter your device’s IMEI number in the designated field.
- Instantly receive the applicable tax amount and registration status.
- Contacting PTA Helpline:
- Call the PTA helpline for direct assistance and inquiries about tax details.
- Using Mobile Apps:
- Several apps available on Android and iOS provide real-time updates on PTA tax rates and device status.
Pro Tips:
- Ensure your IMEI number is correct.
- Use an updated browser to access the DIRBS portal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your iPhone
For Local Residents
- Check IMEI Status: Visit the DIRBS Portal to ensure your device’s IMEI is not blacklisted.
- Pay Applicable Taxes: Use PTA’s official portal or visit designated franchises to calculate and pay taxes.
- Register Device: Submit your payment receipt along with the device details to PTA for final registration.
- Receive Confirmation: Once approved, your iPhone will function seamlessly on all Pakistani networks.
For Overseas Pakistanis
Overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals visiting Pakistan can utilize the PTA’s Temporary Mobile Registration System, allowing them to use their personal mobile devices for up to 120 days without incurring duties and taxes. The registration process involves:
- Accessing the DIRBS Portal: Visit the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) portal.
- Creating an Account: Sign up by providing necessary credentials.
- Applying for Temporary Registration: Select the ‘Temporary Registration for Overseas Pakistanis/Foreign Nationals’ option.
- Entering Device Details: Input device IMEI(s) and personal information, including passport number and local SIM details.
- Verification: An OTP will be sent to the provided mobile number and email for verification.
- Confirmation: Upon successful verification, the device will be registered for temporary use in Pakistan.
For a visual guide on the registration process, you may find the following video helpful:
How to Pay PTA Tax
- Visit the Nearest Franchise or Online Portal:
- Use authorized telecom operator outlets (e.g., Jazz, Ufone, Telenor) or PTA’s official online payment system.
- Provide IMEI and Necessary Documents:
- Submit the IMEI number of your iPhone along with a copy of your CNIC or Passport.
- Complete Payment:
- Pay the calculated tax amount via cash or digital payment methods.
- Ensure you receive a payment receipt for future reference.
- Confirmation:
- Once payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation message. Your device will then be registered and accessible to local cellular networks.
Online Payment Benefits
- Faster processing.
- Reduced chances of errors.
Exemptions and Special Cases
- Tourists and Foreign Nationals: Devices can be registered for temporary use without paying taxes for up to four months.
- Duty-Free Allowances: Returning Pakistani residents may bring one device duty-free if declared at customs.
- Business Usage: Corporate devices must be registered under the company’s name.
Implications of Non-Compliance
Failing to register your iPhone can lead to:
- Network Blockage: Unregistered devices are barred from connecting to local networks.
- Fines and Penalties: Non-compliance may result in hefty fines.
- Reduced Resale Value: Unregistered devices are harder to sell in the local market.
Tips for Reducing PTA Taxes on iPhone
- Active Taxpayer List (ATL): Ensure your CNIC is listed on the FBR’s ATL to qualify for reduced taxes.
- Declare at Customs: Declare your device upon arrival in Pakistan to explore duty-free allowances.
- Register Early: Use your Passport within 30 days of arrival to take advantage of reduced tax rates.
- Opt for Lower-Tier Models: Older iPhone models often attract lower taxes compared to the latest releases.
- Buy PTA-Approved Devices Locally: Purchasing from authorized retailers in Pakistan can save you from dealing with tax registration hassles.
- Monitor PTA Announcements: Keep an eye on PTA’s official updates for any tax reductions or policy changes.
- Consider Alternative Brands: If the taxes on iPhones seem too high, explore other smartphone brands with lower tax rates.
Pro Tips
- Check for duty-free allowances when traveling.
- Opt for refurbished or second-hand PTA-approved devices.
Legal Consequences of Using an Unregistered iPhone
Using an unregistered iPhone can result in:
- IMEI Blocking: The device becomes unusable on local cellular networks.
- Legal Action: Smuggled or unregistered devices may lead to fines or confiscation during customs checks.
- Higher Costs: Delayed registration may incur penalties or increased tax rates.
Implications for Pakistani Users Worldwide
For Pakistani users residing abroad or frequently traveling, understanding PTA regulations is crucial to avoid service disruptions when visiting Pakistan. Unregistered devices may face network restrictions, impacting communication capabilities.
Recent Updates and Policy Changes (2025)
In 2024, the PTA introduced a Temporary Mobile Registration System, enabling overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals to register their devices for up to 120 days without duties and taxes. This initiative aims to facilitate connectivity for visitors during their stay in Pakistan.
The PTA introduced new policies in 2025 to facilitate easier registration for overseas Pakistanis. Key highlights include:
- Temporary Registration Extended: Devices can now be registered for 120 days without taxes.
- Online Payment Integration: Users can calculate and pay taxes online via the PTA portal.
Troubleshooting PTA Tax on Mobiles
High Taxes
Solution:
- Ensure you are listed on the Active Taxpayer List (ATL). ATL users enjoy significant tax reductions.
Registration Issues
Solution:
- Double-check the IMEI number for accuracy. Use PTA’s help center for further assistance.
Blocked Device
Solution:
- Contact PTA immediately to resolve issues and ensure compliance.
Final Thoughts
Owning an iPhone in Pakistan has become more expensive due to PTA tax policies. However, by understanding the tax structure and following the right steps, you can minimize costs and ensure uninterrupted network access. For the latest updates, always check the PTA website or consult with authorized service providers.
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FAQs About PTA Tax for iPhones in 2025
Can I use an unregistered iPhone in Pakistan?
Unregistered iPhones can only be used for a limited time (60 days) after insertion of a local SIM. After this period, they will be blocked from accessing local networks unless registered.
Is PTA tax refundable?
No, PTA tax payments are non-refundable, even if you sell or export the device after registration.
Are there discounts for travelers?
Yes, travelers can avail of reduced taxes if they register their devices using a passport within 30 days of entering Pakistan.
What happens if I don’t pay PTA tax?
Non-payment results in your device being blocked from using any local cellular network. However, Wi-Fi and other non-cellular functions will continue to work.
Can I register more than one device?
Yes, but additional devices beyond the duty-free allowance will incur full PTA taxes.