eSIM Fee in Pakistan Capped at Rs. 1,500 With 10 Free Transfers
PTA has capped the eSIM fee in Pakistan at Rs. 1,500 for issuance or conversion, with up to 10 free transfers between phones, from 17 August 2026.
The eSIM fee in Pakistan is now capped at Rs. 1,500. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) fixed this maximum retail price for issuing a new eSIM or converting a physical SIM into an eSIM, and made moving an eSIM profile to another phone free for up to 10 transfers. The new charges took effect on 17 August 2026 across Pakistan, AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan (The News).
eSIM fee in Pakistan at a glance
| Service | Charge |
|---|---|
| New eSIM issuance | Maximum Rs. 1,500 |
| Converting a physical SIM to eSIM | Maximum Rs. 1,500 |
| Moving eSIM to another phone | Free, up to 10 transfers |
| Effective date | 17 August 2026 |
The cap was agreed after consultation with mobile operators, following recommendations from a parliamentary committee that asked PTA to make eSIM services cheaper and reduce visits to customer service centres (ARY News).
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into compatible phones and smartwatches. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you download your operator’s profile, usually by scanning a QR code. It is useful if you switch phones often, want to use two numbers on a phone with one SIM tray, or want to avoid losing a physical card.
How the 10 free transfers help
Before the change, PTA says users could often reuse the original QR code to move an eSIM a limited number of times, but there was no uniform fee structure across operators. Now, anyone who upgrades or swaps phones can move the eSIM up to 10 times without paying again. Check that your new phone supports eSIM and is PTA-approved before transferring; our PTA mobile tax guide explains registration.
What is coming next
PTA said it is also working with NADRA and operators on more digital SIM verification, including self-service biometric verification through operators’ mobile apps. Discussions on the technical framework are continuing, so these options are not yet available.
Frequently asked questions
What is the eSIM fee in Pakistan?
A maximum of Rs. 1,500 for a new eSIM or for converting a physical SIM, from 17 August 2026.
Is moving my eSIM to a new phone free?
Yes, for up to 10 transfers.
Does the cap apply to all operators?
Yes, to all cellular mobile operators in Pakistan, AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan.
