PTA Cuts eSIM Price to Rs1,500, Allows 10 Free Device Transfers

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has revised the charging structure for eSIM services, capping the initial issuance fee at Rs 1,500 and allowing subscribers to transfer their eSIMs between compatible smartphones free of charge for up to 10 device migrations.

The revised policy, developed in consultation with cellular mobile operators, is expected to take effect by mid-August 2026. The move follows directions from a parliamentary committee that had asked the regulator to make eSIM services more affordable and reduce unnecessary visits to customer service centres.

Under the existing system, subscribers can already move an eSIM from one compatible handset to another a limited number of times using the same QR code issued at the time of activation. PTA has now formally rationalized the charges, setting a maximum initial fee of Rs1,500 while introducing up to 10 free transfers between devices.

The change is expected to particularly benefit users who frequently upgrade or switch smartphones, as they will no longer need to pay a fresh eSIM fee for each migration within the permitted limit.

PTA has also been directed to develop a secure digital mechanism for remote eSIM transfers, allowing subscribers to move their digital SIM between compatible devices without visiting an operator’s service centre.

The regulator is simultaneously working with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and telecom operators on broader reforms to digitize SIM issuance and subscriber verification.

One proposal under consideration would allow eligible users to obtain SIMs through NADRA’s Pak ID application using facial recognition for remote identity verification. The system could reduce reliance on conventional fingerprint-based verification and physical visits to retail outlets.

A second proposal involves introducing self-service biometric verification through mobile operators’ applications. Subscribers would authenticate their identity against NADRA’s database through the operator’s app before accessing SIM issuance and related services.

PTA said discussions with NADRA and cellular operators are continuing to finalize the technical and operational requirements for both options.

The parliamentary committee has also asked the regulator to explore the use of facial recognition and iris verification, particularly to make SIM verification easier for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and other users who may face difficulties with conventional biometric systems.

If implemented as planned, the revised eSIM policy and remote verification initiatives could significantly simplify how Pakistani consumers activate and move mobile connections between devices, while reducing dependence on physical customer service centres.

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