The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has revised the charging structure for eSIM services, capping the maximum initial issuance fee at Rs1,500 and allowing subscribers up to 10 free transfers between compatible handsets. The new policy takes effect on 17 August 2026 and applies to all Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs) across Pakistan, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

New eSIM fee capped at Rs1,500

Under the revised framework, mobile operators may charge a maximum retail price of Rs1,500 for issuing a new eSIM or converting a physical SIM into an eSIM. The cap was set following consultations between the PTA and the CMOs. The previous maximum fee has not been specified in the regulator's public communications.

Ten free transfers between compatible devices

Subscribers can now transfer an eSIM profile from one compatible smartphone to another free of charge for up to 10 migrations. Under the existing system, users could already move an eSIM between phones a limited number of times using the original QR code issued at purchase and activation, without additional charges. The new policy formalises and expands that allowance.

When the new charges take effect

The revised pricing and transfer limits come into force on 17 August 2026. Operators are expected to align their retail pricing and transfer processes with the new framework by that date.

What prompted the revision

The changes follow directions from a parliamentary committee that instructed the PTA to make eSIM services more consumer-friendly and to reduce the need for subscribers to visit customer service centres for routine eSIM-related requests. The committee also directed the regulator to develop a secure digital mechanism allowing remote eSIM migration while maintaining solid security standards. Separately, the PTA is working with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and mobile operators on a multi-factor subscriber verification system, though that initiative remains at the discussion stage.

What the evidence does not yet establish

The PTA's official press release page could not be independently fetched for this report. The previous eSIM issuance fee, the specific mobile operators covered, the list of compatible eSIM-enabled device models, and any consumer eligibility conditions have not been detailed in the publicly available announcements reviewed.