Govt likely to reduce mobile taxes for overseas Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD: The government is actively evaluating fresh mobile phone tax relief proposals that would benefit overseas Pakistani citizens.

Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry shared this update with the Senate on Thursday. He said that overseas Pakistani citizens make these tax requests during their events.

The current system permits foreign mobile phone users to access their devices for three weeks before their services terminate. To keep the phone active, the owner must pay the required PTA tax. The minister explained that tax rates differ based on each mobile phone model.

The government intends to assist overseas citizens by reducing their financial obligations. The National Assembly Standing Committee on Finance requested this action following their recent directive. The committee instructed the Federal Board of Revenue to examine these duties.

They aim to rationalize taxes in the upcoming federal budget for 2026-27. Travelers in Pakistan will find it simpler to use their personal devices because of this change.

The Tax Policy Unit is currently working on rate adjustments through its examination process. The government expects this action will lead to increased visits from overseas Pakistani citizens.

The state can provide better support for its diaspora’s needs by implementing simplified tax regulations. This initiative marks a significant effort to modernize the country’s mobile registration system.