Tax on Mobile Phones in Pakistan Oct 2023
Understanding the tax on mobiles in Pakistan can seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the tax on mobile phones in Pakistan. We will cover how the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) works, how to calculate the tax, and the different taxes applicable for various mobile models.
Introduction to DIRBS
In 2019, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) introduced DIRBS—an innovative system designed to regulate mobile device usage in Pakistan. The primary objective of this system is to identify non-compliant mobile devices operating on local mobile networks, ensure their registration with PTA mobile tax, and block them to promote compliant device usage. This initiative seeks to increase transparency and accountability in the mobile device market in Pakistan.
How to Calculate Tax on Mobile Phones
The government has set specific amounts for mobile phone values in USD. The mobile tax in Pakistan is calculated based on factors such as the device’s value and whether or not it has been registered with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
The formula for calculating PTA tax on a mobile phone in Pakistan is:
- Tax = (Device Price * Tax Rate) + (Customs Duty * (1 + Sales Tax Rate))
Here, the device price is the phone’s value in USD, the Tax Rate varies from 0% to 100% depending on the device and its age, Customs Duty is a fixed amount levied on all imported devices, and the Sales Tax Rate is the standard sales tax rate currently set at 17%.
Mobile Phone Tax Rates in Pakistan – 2023
Our guide is based on available information and aims to provide a thorough understanding of tax on mobile phones in Pakistan. Over time, the PTA may update the mobile tax list, so checking the PTA website for the latest tax rates is essential.
Mobile Phone PTA Tax for Registration with Passport
| Mobile Phone Value (USD) | PTA Tax (PKR) |
| Up to 30 | 1230 |
| More than 30 and up to 100 | 6400 |
| More than 100 and up to 200 | 17280 |
| More than 200 and up to 350 | 23800 + 17% of sales tax |
| More than 350 and up to 500 | 34000 + 17% of sales tax |
| More than 500 and up to 700 | 52000 + 17% of sales tax |
| Above 700 | 60000 + 17% of sales tax |
Mobile Phone PTA Tax for Registration with CNIC
| Mobile Phone Value (USD) | PTA Tax (PKR) |
| Up to 30 | 1430 |
| More than 30 and up to 100 | 7843 |
| More than 100 and up to 200 | 20031 |
| More than 200 and up to 350 | 24770 + 17% of sales tax |
| More than 350 and up to 500 | 39000 + 17% of sales tax |
| More than 500 and up to 700 | 63500 + 17% of sales tax |
| Above 700 | 71500 + 17% of sales tax |
Tax on Various iPhone Models
| iPhone Model | Tax on Passport (PKR) | Tax on CNIC (PKR) |
| iPhone 11 | 79167 | 99734 |
| iPhone 11 Pro | 100302 | 122982 |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | 101080 | 123838 |
| iPhone 12 Mini | 93989 | 116038 |
| iPhone 12 | 96502 | 118802 |
| iPhone 12 Pro | 109248 | 132823 |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | 109248 | 132823 |
| iPhone 13 Mini | 108979 | 132527 |
| iPhone 13 | 108979 | 132527 |
| iPhone 13 Pro | 108979 | 132527 |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max | 108979 | 132527 |
| iPhone 14 | 125,751 | 131126 |
| iPhone 14 Plus | 125,751 | 131126 |
| 14 Pro | 127000 | 145801 |
| 14 Pro Max | 127068 | 152424 |
As ever, it’s advised to check with official PTA sources for the most accurate updates.
PTA Tax on Mobile Phones | Calculators and Methods
To calculate the PTA tax on mobile phones, you can use two different methods:
-
PTA Tax Calculator with Passport
This method is suitable for people registering their mobile devices using their passports. The tax rates are generally lower for passport registration, as it is typically meant for foreign visitors or individuals who brought devices from abroad.
-
PTA Tax Calculator with CNIC (National ID Card)
This method is for local residents to register their devices using their national ID cards. Tax rates are higher than those for passport registration.
Depending on your eligibility, you can calculate the tax on your mobile device using either of the two methods mentioned above.
Tax on Mobile Phones | iPhone Example
We have included some examples in our guide if you want specific tax information on PTA mobile tex iPhone 13 pro max. Please note that these taxes and values are approximate and may change over time.
| iPhone Model | Tax Payable on Passport (PKR) | Tax Payable on ID Card (PKR) |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max (All Variants) | 110,373 | 137,873 |
Please note that the taxes for each model represent an approximation and may be subject to change. Always refer to the official PTA website for the latest information.
Key Takeaways
To effectively navigate and understand the PTA tax on mobile phones, remember the following points:
- The tax calculation method depends on whether you register your device with a passport or national ID card (CNIC).
- DIRBS was introduced to regulate mobile device usage in Pakistan and promote transparency.
- The tax payable on mobile phones varies depending on the device and registration method.
- Always refer to the official PTA website for the most up-to-date tax rates.
Following this guide, you should have a better understanding of the tax landscape for mobile phones in Pakistan. Remember that the main goal of the FBR tax on phone devices is to promote transparency in the mobile device market and ensure that all devices used are compliant. So, take the time to familiarize yourself with the necessary tax information and make sure your mobile device is appropriately registered and taxed.