The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has proposed mandatory identity verification for international roaming users who access Pakistani mobile networks using foreign SIM cards and eSIMs. Under the draft International Roaming (Inbound) Regulations, 2026, mobile operators must implement Know Your Customer (KYC) checks for all incoming roaming users.
Currently, international roaming connections function without any local identity verification in place. Travelers may be required to submit their nationality, passport or travel document details, SIM information, arrival dates, expected duration of stay, and the name of their foreign mobile operator.
The draft suggests collecting this data through verification links in welcome SMS messages, a digital portal approved by the PTA, coordination with border control and immigration authorities, and registered travel SIM and eSIM aggregators. Mobile operators would be required to keep these customer verification records for a minimum of 12 months after a user ceases using international roaming services.
Travel SIM and eSIM aggregators will also fall under the registration and regulatory framework of the authority. The rules remain at the consultation stage, with the PTA inviting written comments from stakeholders by 10 November 2026.
