SIM FOR FOREIGNERS/VISITORS IN PAKISTAN (PASSPORT/VISA) – TOURIST SIM PAKISTAN GUIDE

If you’re landing in Pakistan and need fast, reliable mobile data, getting a tourist SIM in Pakistan is straightforward, provided you know the rules. Drawing on years of hands‑on testing at airport counters and operator franchises in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and northern regions, here’s the complete, up‑to‑date guide to the best SIM for foreigners in Pakistan, what to bring, where to buy, and how to stay compliant with PTA device registration.

For more practical details and operator‑specific steps, see our in‑depth Pakistan SIM information page: SIM Information.

WHO CAN GET A SIM IN PAKISTAN AS A FOREIGNER?

Any visitor with a valid passport and visa can buy and register a prepaid SIM. Registration is mandatory via biometric verification (fingerprint) at an authorized outlet.

DOCUMENTS YOU NEED (MANDATORY)

• Original passport
• Valid visa (entry stamp must be visible)
• Local contact or hotel address (sometimes requested)
• Active phone to insert the SIM (unlocked)

Note: Foreigners are typically allowed up to two active SIMs per passport at a time.

WHERE TO BUY A TOURIST SIM IN PAKISTAN

• Airport arrival counters at Karachi (KHI), Lahore (LHE), Islamabad (ISB)
• Official operator franchises/customer service centers (best for smooth biometric registration)
• Select authorized retailers in major cities (ensure they offer biometric verification)

Tip: Avoid street vendors that cannot capture biometrics—your SIM won’t activate.

STEP‑BY‑STEP: BUYING AND ACTIVATING A TOURIST SIM IN PAKISTAN

1. Choose an operator (Jazz, Zong 4G, Ufone 4G; Telenor operates in some areas).
2. Present passport and visa; provide a local address if asked.
3. Complete biometric verification (BVS) on the operator device.
4. Select a prepaid tourist/data package or starter kit.
5. Pay in PKR (cash is most common; cards accepted at many airport counters).
6. Insert SIM or activate eSIM (if supported).
7. Wait 5–30 minutes for activation; restart your phone if needed.

Most phones auto‑configure internet settings. If not, APN examples:

• Jazz: jazzconnect
• Zong: zonginternet
• Ufone: ufone.internet

NETWORKS, COVERAGE, AND PACKAGES (2025 OVERVIEW)

Pakistan’s 4G networks are strong in cities and on main travel routes. 5G is not commercially launched as of 2025.

• Jazz: Widest overall coverage, solid urban and intercity data speeds.
• Zong 4G: Excellent 4G/4G+ capacity in cities; strong data value.
• Ufone 4G: Improved coverage in cities; good voice quality.
• Telenor: Coverage in select regions; footprint is changing due to market transitions.

PRICE SNAPSHOT (TYPICAL, MAY VARY BY CITY/COUNTER)

• SIM card: PKR 200–500
• Tourist starter packs: PKR 1,000–2,500 (often 10–25 GB + local minutes for 7–30 days)
• Data bundles:
  • 2–10 GB: PKR 250–600
  • 20–40 GB: PKR 1,000–1,800
• International calling: Buy IDD add‑ons for best rates

Ask the counter for the latest tourist promotions and validity.

ESIM OPTIONS FOR VISITORS

• Jazz, Zong, and Ufone offer eSIM at major franchises and some airport counters.
• eSIM fee may apply; bring compatible device (iPhone 11+, Pixel 4+, many flagships).
• Great if you don’t want to swap physical SIMs.

PHONE AND IMEI REGISTRATION (PTA DIRBS): THE 120‑DAY TOURIST RULE

Pakistan runs a device registry (DIRBS) to block non‑compliant phones on local networks. Tourists using a local Pakistani SIM must ensure their device status is valid.

• Temporary Mobile Registration (TMR): Tourists can activate one device for up to 120 days without paying customs duty via PTA’s portal.
• If you stay longer or need permanent registration, duties may apply.
• Using only roaming on your foreign SIM typically doesn’t require DIRBS registration, but local SIM usage triggers checks.

Useful link: PTA DIRBS portal, https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs

HOW TO REGISTER YOUR DEVICE TEMPORARILY (TMR)

1. Connect to Wi‑Fi and open the DIRBS TMR portal.
2. Create an account with your passport details.
3. Enter your device IMEI(s) (dial *#06#).
4. Select temporary/tourist option and submit.
5. Keep confirmation email/SMS. Your device runs on local SIMs for up to 120 days.

Note: Policies can update. Always confirm current rules at the portal.

PRO TIPS TO AVOID ISSUES

• Ensure your phone is carrier‑unlocked before you fly.
• Keep your passport handy; you’ll need it for any SIM change or re‑issue.
• Make one short call or data session every few weeks to keep the number active.
• Save your SIM PUK code and number the moment you buy it.
• For better upload speeds (maps, ride‑hailing), prefer Zong/Jazz in dense city areas.
• Use official apps: Jazz World, My Zong, My Ufone to manage packages and top‑ups.
• If data seems slow, toggle airplane mode or lock to 4G/LTE in settings.
• For complaints, use PTA’s complaint portal: https://complaint.pta.gov.pk

USEFUL CODES AND CONTACTS

• Jazz helpline: 111 (from Jazz)
• Zong helpline: 310 (from Zong)
• Ufone helpline: 333 (from Ufone)
• SIM info text: send blank SMS to 667 for SIM ownership details (small fee may apply)
• Check remaining data/minutes via each operator’s app or USSD (varies by package)

INTERNAL RESOURCE: PAKISTAN SIM INFORMATION

For operator‑specific activation steps, current package snapshots, and troubleshooting, see our dedicated resource: Pak Sim Data
Explore more helpful tools on our home page: SIM Owner Details.

CONCLUSION

A SIM for foreigners in Pakistan is easy to secure with your passport and visa. Buy at the airport or an official franchise, choose a strong 4G network (Jazz/Zong/Ufone), and enroll your phone under PTA’s 120‑day temporary registration if you’ll use a local SIM. With the right package—or an eSIM—you’ll be online within minutes and ready to travel.

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FAQ — TOURIST SIM PAKISTAN

CAN A FOREIGNER BUY A SIM IN PAKISTAN?

Yes. Bring your original passport and valid visa, complete biometric verification, and you can purchase a prepaid SIM at airports or official stores.

HOW LONG DOES A TOURIST SIM STAY ACTIVE?

Validity depends on the package (7–30 days typical). Keep the number alive with occasional usage or top‑ups to avoid deactivation.

DO I NEED TO REGISTER MY PHONE (IMEI) WITH PTA?

If you use a local Pakistani SIM, register your device under PTA’s Temporary Mobile Registration for up to 120 days. Roaming on your foreign SIM generally doesn’t require it.

WHICH NETWORK IS BEST FOR TRAVELERS?

Jazz and Zong usually deliver the best 4G coverage and speeds in cities and along major routes. Ufone is solid in many urban areas. Check local coverage where you travel.

CAN I GET AN ESIM IN PAKISTAN?

Yes. Jazz, Zong, and Ufone offer eSIM at select franchises and some airport counters for compatible phones.

WHAT DOES A TOURIST SIM COST?

Expect PKR 200–500 for the SIM and PKR 1,000–2,500 for tourist starter packs (data + minutes). Prices vary by city and running promotions.

HOW LONG DOES ACTIVATION TAKE?

Usually within 5–30 minutes after biometric registration. Restart your phone if data doesn’t start immediately.