Technology & Gadgets | July 2026 | 4 min read
⚡ Quick Takeaways
- PTA says users can transfer an eSIM between compatible devices up to 10 times for free.
- The clarification was made during a Senate committee briefing.
- PTA says the facility is meant to make phone upgrades easier for eSIM users.
- The regulator is negotiating to reduce eSIM issuance charges from Rs. 2,000.
- Proposed charges may fall to Rs. 1,000-Rs. 1,500 as adoption increases.
PTA has clarified that Pakistani mobile users can move an eSIM between compatible phones up to 10 times without paying a transfer fee.
| 10 Free eSIM transfers |
Rs. 2,000 Current issuance charge |
Rs. 1,000-1,500 Proposed lower range |
PTA Clarifies Free eSIM Transfer Limit
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority Chairman Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman has clarified that mobile users in the country can transfer an eSIM from one compatible device to another free of charge up to 10 times.
The clarification was given during a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat. The PTA chief said the free transfer facility is intended to make eSIM adoption more convenient for users who upgrade, replace or switch smartphones.
The announcement matters because eSIM use is growing as more modern smartphones support the technology. Many users hesitate to move from physical SIM cards because they worry about activation costs, device changes and operator processes. A clear transfer limit can reduce that uncertainty.
An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded inside a supported device. Unlike a traditional plastic SIM card, it does not need to be inserted or removed from a tray. Users can activate mobile service digitally, depending on operator support and device compatibility.
| User benefit: The free transfer limit can make phone upgrades easier for people already using eSIMs. |
Lower eSIM Charges Under Discussion
For customers, the biggest practical benefit is convenience. Someone buying a new compatible phone should be able to move the eSIM profile without paying again, as long as the transfer remains within the free limit and the operator’s process supports the device.
PTA is also trying to encourage wider use of eSIM technology by pushing for lower issuance charges. The regulator recently disclosed that it is negotiating with mobile operators to reduce eSIM issuance charges from the current Rs. 2,000 to between Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 1,500.
The expectation is that prices may fall further as more users adopt eSIMs and operators handle larger volumes. Lower charges could help make the technology more attractive for smartphone users, especially those who frequently change devices or use newer flagship phones.
However, the clarification should not be read as a guarantee that every phone or every transfer attempt will work automatically. eSIM transfers depend on device support, operator systems, identity verification and the correct handling of the user’s mobile number.
| Item | Current Position | Possible Change | Impact for Users |
| eSIM transfer | Free up to 10 times | Already clarified by PTA | Easier device upgrades |
| Issuance charge | Rs. 2,000 | Rs. 1,000-Rs. 1,500 under talks | Lower entry cost |
| Activation | Digital profile | Depends on operator process | No physical SIM required |
| Device support | Compatible phones only | More devices adding eSIM | Check before purchase |
| Adoption | Still developing | May rise as costs fall | More digital SIM usage |
What eSIM Users Should Check First
Users should also understand the difference between eSIM issuance and eSIM transfer. Issuance usually refers to activating or providing an eSIM profile, while transfer refers to moving an already active eSIM from one compatible phone to another. PTA’s statement specifically highlights free transfers up to 10 times.
For Pakistan’s telecom market, eSIM adoption can reduce reliance on physical SIM distribution and make digital activation easier. It can also support connected devices beyond phones, including smartwatches, tablets and future internet-of-things products where supported by operators.
The technology can also make network switching and device management simpler, but it requires consumer awareness. Users should confirm whether their phone supports eSIM, whether their mobile operator offers eSIM services and what documents or verification steps are required.
| Important caution: Do not delete an active eSIM profile before confirming the operator’s transfer process. |
Why eSIM Adoption Could Grow
The proposed reduction in issuance charges could become an important factor in adoption. If the cost falls from Rs. 2,000 to around Rs. 1,000-Rs. 1,500, more users may be willing to try eSIMs, especially when buying premium phones that already support the feature.
For now, the key message is that PTA wants eSIM use to become easier and cheaper. Users planning to change phones should check with their mobile operator, keep their device details ready and confirm the transfer procedure before deleting an active eSIM profile.
| Market outlook: Lower fees and clearer transfer rules could make eSIMs more common in Pakistan’s smartphone market. |
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. eSIM availability, transfer rules and charges may vary by mobile operator and may change after official updates.
