Purchasing a new iPhone in Pakistan is no easy task, because the PTA tax is now more costly than anticipated.
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) have updated import duties for April 2026, which has led to a change in tax rates for imported smartphones, particularly Apple devices. The latest rates impact both overseas Pakistanis and local buyers bringing phones into the country.
Why PTA Taxes Are Increasing
Pakistan’s updated taxation structure places a premium on imported smartphones in the luxury category. Devices valued above $500 now face a 25% sales tax, alongside customs duties, withholding taxes, and regulatory charges.
As a result, the PTA tax on iPhone models has surged across newer flagship devices. The amount also changes depending on whether the phone is registered using a CNIC or a passport.
Meanwhile, officials say the government is reviewing proposals to ease taxes for overseas Pakistanis. The discussion was taken into consideration after repeated complaints during overseas conventions and Senate sessions.
Updated PTA Tax on iPhone Models
The revised PTA mobile tax structure for Apple devices in 2026 varies sharply by model and registration method.
iPhone 17
The current rates are as follows:
- iPhone 17 – Rs. 128,766 (Passport) | Rs. 154,293 (CNIC)
- iPhone Air – Rs. 151,322 (Passport) | Rs. 175,949 (CNIC)
- iPhone 17 Pro – Rs. 172,789 (Passport) | Rs. 210,317 (CNIC)
- iPhone 17 Pro Max – Rs. 182,710 (Passport) | Rs. 213,631 (CNIC)
iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 – Rs. 154,293 (Passport) | Rs. 128,766 (CNIC)
- iPhone 16 Plus – Rs. 135,322 (Passport) | Rs. 161,949 (CNIC)
- iPhone 16 Pro – Rs. 168,789 (Passport) | Rs. 198,317 (CNIC)
- iPhone 16 Pro Max – Rs. 182,710 (Passport) | Rs. 213,631 (CNIC)
iPhone 15
Older models remain relatively more affordable after revised customs valuations:
- iPhone 15 – Rs. 111,000 (Passport) | Rs. 134,750 (CNIC)
- iPhone 15 Plus – Rs. 118,500 (Passport) | Rs. 143,000 (CNIC)
- iPhone 15 Pro – Rs. 135,300 (Passport) | Rs. 161,480 (CNIC)
- iPhone 15 Pro Max – Rs. 148,500 (Passport) | Rs. 176,000 (CNIC)
iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 – Rs. 107,325 (Passport) | Rs. 130,708 (CNIC)
- iPhone 14 Plus – Rs. 113,075 (Passport) | Rs. 137,033 (CNIC)
- iPhone 14 Pro – Rs. 122,275 (Passport) | Rs. 147,153 (CNIC)
- iPhone 14 Pro Max – Rs. 131,130 (Passport) | Rs. 156,893 (CNIC)
iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 – Rs. 90,880 (Passport) | Rs. 118,380 (CNIC)
- iPhone 13 Mini – Rs. 86,165 (Passport) | Rs. 107,432 (CNIC)
- iPhone 13 Pro – Rs. 105,658 (Passport) | Rs. 128,874 (CNIC)
- iPhone 13 Pro Max – Rs. 110,373 (Passport) | Rs. 137,873 (CNIC)
These revised rates have made many buyers search for how to check the PTA tax on mobile before purchasing imported devices.
How to Register Your iPhone in Pakistan
Users must register imported phones through the official PTA Device Registration System (DRS). The process starts with generating a Payment Slip Identification (PSID).
The PSID remains valid for seven days after the date it is issued. Payments can be completed through:
- Mobile banking apps
- ATM services
- Physical bank branches
For anyone wondering how to check PTA tax online, the DRS portal provides official tax calculations when you put in your device model and IMEI number.
Authorities also warn users against registering phones using borrowed CNICs. PTA can revoke registrations if identity details do not match ownership records.
Relief May Be Coming for Overseas Pakistanis
The government has hinted at possible reductions in PTA tax on mobile imports for overseas Pakistanis and travellers carrying personal devices.
Industry experts believe lower taxes could reduce grey-market activity and encourage legal registration. For now, however, imported iPhones remain among the most expensive smartphones to register in the country.
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