With Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series earning widespread acclaim for its AI-powered features, sleek design, and robust performance, many Pakistani consumers are eager to get their hands on the new flagship phones. But for anyone purchasing or importing a Galaxy S24, S24+, or S24 Ultra into Pakistan, there’s an unavoidable hurdle: the PTA tax.
This article breaks down what the PTA tax is, how much you’ll have to pay to register a Galaxy S24 device in Pakistan in 2025, and what steps to take to ensure uninterrupted use on local mobile networks.
What Is PTA Tax, and Why Does It Matter?
In Pakistan, all mobile phones using local SIM cards must be registered with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) through a system called DIRBS (Device Identification Registration and Blocking System). This regulation aims to curb smuggling and ensure only legally imported or registered devices operate on local networks.
If you buy a phone abroad or have one sent to you from overseas, it won’t work with any Pakistani SIM card unless it’s PTA-approved. And that approval comes with a tax, sometimes a hefty one.
Galaxy S24 Series Models and Their Respective PTA Tax Rates 2025
The following are the updated PTA tax rates for the Galaxy S24 series as of June 2025, following the announcement of Pakistan’s Federal Budget for FY 2025-26. These are the amounts you will need to pay to register your device with PTA for local SIM functionality:
| Device | PTA Tax via Passport (PKR) | PTA Tax via CNIC (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S24 | 99,499 | 120,899 |
| Galaxy S24+ | 96,999 | 118,500 |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | 159,500 | 188,450 |
These values are consistent with earlier tax brackets in the year and have not been changed in the June 2025 budget.
CNIC vs Passport: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common points of confusion among users is the difference in tax amounts between registering a device with a passport versus a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
- Passport registration is typically available for individuals who have recently traveled abroad. It must be completed within 30 days of the arrival of the phone in Pakistan.
- CNIC registration is available for everyone else and can be completed within 60 days, but it tends to be more expensive, adding up to PKR 20,000–30,000 more in duties.
For travelers or overseas Pakistanis, you can also temporarily register your Samsung Galaxy S24 for 3 months for free.
Why Is the PTA Tax So High?
The PTA tax isn’t a single fee. It’s a combination of multiple duties and taxes calculated based on the phone’s Customs-assessed value. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into the total:
- Customs duty
- Sales tax and additional sales tax
- IT duty (9%)
- Regulatory duty (up to 20%)
- Mobile Levy
- Provincial taxes
Because the Galaxy S24 Ultra, for example, is priced well above PKR 400,000 in most markets, the regulatory duty and other taxes drive the PTA cost up significantly.
Importing a Galaxy S24 Ultra may cost around PKR 400,000–450,000, depending on the variant and market. Add to that a PTA tax of up to PKR 188,450, and the total cost can exceed PKR 600,000. This makes it more expensive than buying a locally PTA-approved model, although those are often in short supply or priced even higher due to import-related inflation.
How to Register Your Galaxy S24 with PTA
If you’ve imported a device or are planning to, here’s how to register it:
- Visit the DIRBS PTA portal or use the DVS mobile app.
- Enter your device’s IMEI number, which can be found by dialing
*#06#. - Choose your registration option—passport or CNIC.
- The portal will calculate the required tax.
- Proceed to pay via online banking, credit/debit card, or through designated FBR payment channels.
- Wait for PTA to confirm registration (typically 24–48 hours).
Once approved, your Galaxy S24 will be cleared to operate with any local SIM card.
Key Takeaways
- The PTA tax on the Galaxy S24 series remains unchanged after the June 2025 budget.
- Passport-based registration saves users around PKR 20,000–30,000 compared to CNIC.
- Failing to register a device will lead to network disconnection, even if it’s fully functional otherwise.
- High taxes make imported phones significantly more expensive, but for many consumers, they’re still worth the performance and build quality.
Final Word
While the Galaxy S24 series offers cutting-edge features and performance, Pakistani buyers need to plan for the additional PTA registration cost if they’re buying from abroad. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a casual user, understanding how the PTA system works—and budgeting accordingly—will save you time, money, and the headache of a blocked device.
As always, it’s recommended to double-check rates on the official PTA DIRBS portal or with reliable technology news outlets before making a purchase. And if you’re not in a rush, keep an eye on future budget announcements, as duties can shift with economic policy changes.
Have more questions about smartphone taxes in Pakistan, or need help registering your device? Reach out in the comments or check our step-by-step guide on PTA registration.
