PTA Introduces SIM Retention Facility to Facilitate Overseas Pakistanis

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has launched an important initiative to facilitate overseas Pakistanis by helping them secure their mobile SIM cards and prevent suspension during extended stays abroad. The move aims to ensure uninterrupted telecom connectivity for Pakistanis living overseas, enabling them to remain connected with family, friends, and essential services in Pakistan.
In a statement shared on social media, the PTA said overseas subscribers can safeguard their SIM cards for a specified period by informing their respective cellular companies and paying the applicable charges. The authority said the initiative allows overseas Pakistanis to retain ownership of their mobile numbers, which are often linked to banking, digital services, and official communications.
Outlining clear steps for subscribers, the PTA advised prepaid customers to use their SIM cards at least once every 180 days to keep them active. This includes making a call, sending an SMS, or using mobile data within the stipulated timeframe. Postpaid customers were instructed to ensure timely payment of monthly line rent and any outstanding dues to avoid suspension of their connections.
The telecom regulator also issued a renewed warning against fraud, cautioning overseas Pakistanis and local consumers about fake calls and fraudulent UAN numbers. The PTA said scammers are impersonating government institutions such as the PTA, FIA, and banks, and clarified that no government body ever asks for sensitive information including OTPs, PINs, CNIC numbers, or biometric details.
Additionally, the PTA reminded citizens—particularly overseas Pakistanis—to use only SIM cards registered in their own names, stressing that using SIMs issued on someone else’s identity is a violation of regulations. The authority emphasized that registered users are fully responsible for all calls, messages, and data usage on their SIMs, urging responsible and lawful use of mobile connections to avoid legal and security issues.