PTA Caps eSIM Fee at Rs1,500

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in consultation with Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs), has revised its eSIM charging framework, setting a maximum initial issuance fee of Rs1,500 and allowing subscribers up to 10 free transfers between compatible devices.

The revised policy is expected to take effect by mid-August 2026, introducing a more standardised and consumer-friendly approach to eSIM services.

The decision follows directions from a parliamentary committee, which had instructed the telecom regulator to finalise a revised eSIM transfer policy aimed at reducing unnecessary visits to customer service centres and making device migrations easier for subscribers.

Under the previous arrangement, users could already transfer an eSIM between compatible phones a limited number of times using the original QR code provided during purchase and activation, without incurring additional charges.

Following consultations with cellular operators, the PTA has now formally updated the charging structure. The revised framework limits the maximum initial eSIM issuance fee to Rs1,500 while providing subscribers with up to 10 free device transfers.

The parliamentary panel had also directed the PTA to establish a secure digital mechanism that would allow customers to move their eSIMs between compatible devices remotely, without having to visit a customer service centre.

The proposed system is intended to make eSIM migration more convenient while maintaining strong security and authentication measures to protect subscribers from unauthorised transfers.