The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has proposed mandatory identity verification for international roaming users accessing Pakistani mobile networks through foreign SIM cards and eSIMs, citing concerns over fraud, security and the misuse of untraceable connections.
Under the draft International Roaming (Inbound) Regulations, 2026, mobile operators would be required to introduce Know Your Customer (KYC) checks to verify the identities of incoming roaming users.
The proposed checks could require users to provide passport or travel document details, nationality, SIM or eSIM information, arrival dates, expected length of stay and the name of their foreign mobile operator.
According to the PTA, international roaming connections currently operate without local identity verification, making it difficult to trace users involved in fraudulent activities. The authority has highlighted risks including spoofed calls, SMS phishing, extortion, e-commerce fraud and the misuse of social media accounts through foreign SIMs and eSIMs.
The draft proposes several ways to collect identity information, including verification links sent through welcome SMS messages, a PTA-approved digital portal, coordination with immigration and border control authorities, and registered travel SIM and eSIM aggregators.
Mobile operators would also have to retain customer verification records for at least 12 months after a user stops using international roaming services, unless the PTA prescribes a different period. Travel SIM and eSIM aggregators would also be brought under the authority’s registration and regulatory framework.
The proposed regulations include measures to monitor permanent roaming, restrict abusive use and block connections involved in illegal activities.
The PTA has invited written comments from stakeholders by November 10, 2026. The rules are still at the consultation stage and would take effect only after PTA notifies them.
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