The government has officially introduced an installment payment option for Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) taxes on imported mobile phones under the Finance Bill 2026–27, aiming to reduce the upfront cost burden on consumers.

The new provision allows individuals registering imported smartphones through the Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) to clear their PTA dues in multiple installments, as per a procedure to be notified by the government.

However, the law requires that the full tax amount must be settled within the same financial year in which the device is imported.

The facility will apply to both new and used imported mobile phones and is set to take effect from July 1, 2026, after the Finance Act 2026–27 comes into force.

Authorities will issue detailed rules outlining eligibility criteria and the installment mechanism in due course.