Buying a new flagship phone is exciting. But in Pakistan, the PTA tax can be a big surprise. If you want the iPhone 17 or the Samsung Galaxy S26, you need to plan for the extra cost.
These phones are expensive. Since they cost more than $700, they fall into the highest tax bracket. Here is a simple guide on what you might pay.
PTA Tax for iPhone 17 Series (Estimated)
Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 will be a luxury item. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) sets taxes based on the dollar value. For the iPhone 17 series, the rates are high.
| iPhone 17 Model | Tax on Passport (Estimated) | Tax on CNIC (Estimated) |
| iPhone 17 | Rs. 130,000 | Rs. 155,000 |
| iPhone 17 Pro | Rs. 175,000 | Rs. 210,000 |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | Rs. 185,000 | Rs. 215,000 |
Note: These are estimated prices. The final tax depends on the USD to PKR exchange rate at the time of registration.
PTA Tax for Samsung Galaxy S26 (Estimated)
Samsung fans are waiting for the Galaxy S26. Like the iPhone, this flagship will face heavy duties. The Ultra model usually has the highest tax because of its high price tag.
| Samsung S26 Model | Tax on Passport (Estimated) | Tax on CNIC (Estimated) |
| Galaxy S26 | Rs. 105,000 | Rs. 125,000 |
| Galaxy S26 Plus | Rs. 120,000 | Rs. 145,000 |
| Galaxy S26 Ultra | Rs. 165,000 | Rs. 195,000 |
Passport vs. CNIC: Which is Cheaper?
You have two ways to register your phone.
- Passport Registration: This is for people who travel abroad. It is usually Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000 cheaper than using a CNIC. You must register within 60 days of arriving in Pakistan.
- CNIC Registration: This is for local residents. It is the most expensive option. Most people buying locally in Pakistan use this method.
How to Pay Your PTA Tax Online
You don’t need to visit an office to pay. You can do it from your home. Follow these easy steps:
- Dial *8484#: Use your phone to get your IMEI number.
- Visit DIRBS Portal: Go to the official PTA website.
- Generate PSID: Enter your details to get a payment code.
- Pay via Bank: Use your mobile banking app (like JazzCash, Easypaisa, or HBL) to pay using the PSID.
Once you pay, your phone will start working on local SIM cards within 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 17 and Galaxy S26 are top-tier phones. The PTA tax adds a lot to the final price. Always check the latest rates before you buy. If you can, use a passport to save some money.
