Pakistan Telecommunication Authority cuts eSIM fees and allows ten free transfers

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced a new eSIM pricing policy that caps the maximum initial fee at Rs 1,500, down from the previous limit. The regulator also permits up to ten free eSIM transfers between compatible smartphones, with the changes slated to take effect by mid‑August 2026.

The move follows a parliamentary committee’s directive to make eSIM services more consumer‑friendly and to reduce the need for subscribers to visit service centres. In parallel, PTA is collaborating with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to develop a secure digital platform for remote eSIM transfers, incorporating facial and iris verification and multi‑factor subscriber authentication.

These measures aim to simplify device switching, lower costs for mobile users, and enhance SIM security across Pakistan.