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PhoneWorld’s July 15, 2023 update listed iPhone XS registration tax at PKR 87,833 with a passport and PKR 109,266 with a CNIC. For iPhone XS Max, it listed PKR 91,110 with a passport and PKR 112,871 with a CNIC. These are historical figures, not guaranteed current charges; check the exact device’s DIRBS-generated Payment Slip ID (PSID) before paying.
What were the iPhone XS and XS Max PTA tax amounts in July 2023?
PhoneWorld reported the following registration tax amounts on July 15, 2023:
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Apple iPhone XS Max, 64GB, Space Gray - Fully Unlocked (Renewed) | $168.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Apple iPhone XS, 64GB, Space Gray - Unlocked (Renewed) | $159.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Apple iPhone XS, US Version, 256GB, Gold - Unlocked (Renewed) | $184.89 | Buy on Amazon |
| Model | Passport route | CNIC route |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XS | PKR 87,833 | PKR 109,266 |
| iPhone XS Max | PKR 91,110 | PKR 112,871 |
These figures answer what the July 2023 update said. They should not be used as today’s assessed amount: duties and valuations can change, and the amount for an individual device is confirmed through the registration process. PhoneWorld’s July 2023 figures.
Are those still the current charges?
Do not assume the 2023 amounts remain in force. A secondary guide accessed in 2026 estimates PKR 5,101 on CNIC and PKR 3,776 on passport for both models, based on reported customs values of USD 75 for XS and USD 95 for XS Max. These are estimates, not verified official model-specific charges; confirm the amount DIRBS assesses for your device and application. Secondary guide estimates.
#1 Best Overall
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
- Successfully passed a full diagnostic test which ensures like-new functionality and removal of any prior-user personal information.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charger and charging cable.
- Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage, which is not noticeable when the device is held at arm's length.
For a purchase or registration decision, use the amount on the PSID generated for the exact device. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) directs users to mobile-device duty information and PTA’s device-verification system. FBR mobile-device guidance.
Why are the passport and CNIC amounts different?
The 2023 report gave separate amounts for the passport and CNIC registration routes. The applicable route depends on the applicant and current rules; a passport does not automatically qualify every overseas Pakistani for a particular rate. Check the current portal requirements and the assessment generated for your application rather than choosing a route based only on the historical table.
Rank #2
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
- Successfully passed a full diagnostic test which ensures like-new functionality and removal of any prior-user personal information.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charger and charging cable.
- Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage, which is not noticeable when the device is held at arm's length.
Who sets the tax, and what does PTA do?
“PTA tax” is common shorthand for the cost associated with registering a phone for local network use. The customs duty and tax framework is administered by FBR, while DIRBS manages device compliance and registration status. FBR describes DIRBS as a system for identifying non-compliant devices; compliant devices are registered, while non-compliant devices can ultimately be blocked. FBR’s DIRBS guidance.
How to check and pay the current amount
- Check the device status: Use PTA’s Device Verification System (DVS) to check the phone’s IMEI and compliance status. FBR links to the system from its mobile-device guidance page.
- Submit the registration details: For an individual local application, provide the CNIC and IMEI information in the DIRBS web utility.
- Review the PSID: The system generates a Payment Slip ID with the assessed duty, tax, and any applicable prescribed fine. Review the amount before paying.
- Pay and confirm: Pay through online banking, ATM, mobile banking, or a bank branch. DIRBS whitelists the device after payment is confirmed.
The procedure is set out in FBR Customs General Order 01 of 2024. Use the PSID for the specific device rather than treating an online estimate as a final bill.
Rank #3
- Fully Unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice (e.G. At&t, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, us-cellular, Cricket, Metro, etc.).
- The Device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a Charger and charging cable that may be generic, in which case It will be UL or mfi (“made for iPhone”) certified.
- Inspected and guaranteed to have minimal cosmetic damage, which is not noticeable when the device is held at arm’s length.
- Successfully passed a full diagnostic test which ensures like-new functionality and Removal of any prior-user personal information.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
What if you brought the phone into Pakistan while travelling?
Under the 2024 order, travelers may register devices brought in accompanied baggage within 60 days of arrival in Pakistan. After that window, applicable duty and taxes plus the prescribed fine apply. Check the order and the portal for the process that applies to your circumstances. FBR Customs General Order 01 of 2024.
Temporary facility for eligible visitors
The order also describes a temporary facility for eligible overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals. The applied IMEI is paired with the applicant’s declared mobile number and can be used only with that number; local network service is blocked after 120 days unless the device is handled under the applicable reapplication process. This temporary facility is not the same as permanent registration through payment of assessed charges. FBR Customs General Order 01 of 2024.
Quick Recap
What to check before buying a used iPhone XS or XS Max
- Check the IMEI’s DIRBS status rather than relying on a seller’s verbal assurance or an old tax receipt.
- Ask whether the phone is already compliant and confirm the status yourself.
- If it is not registered, obtain the current PSID assessment and include that amount in your total purchase cost.
- Do not use the 2023 table or an unverified estimate as a guaranteed registration price.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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