Pakistan is set to introduce a unified policy that will allow mobile users to transfer their eSIMs between compatible devices up to 10 times free of charge, addressing growing consumer concerns over varying operator restrictions.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) shared the update during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, where lawmakers reviewed issues including 5G rollout, mobile network quality, telecom competition and SIM issuance mechanisms. PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeezur Rehman said operators currently follow different eSIM transfer policies, but a standardized framework is being finalized to improve the user experience.
The discussions also highlighted Pakistan’s progress toward commercial 5G deployment, efforts to expand mobile coverage in underserved areas and plans to modernize identity verification for SIM registration.
Standardised eSIM Rules Aim to Improve Consumer Experience
As smartphone manufacturers increasingly adopt eSIM technology, seamless device switching has become an important expectation for consumers.
Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, eSIMs require digital activation and transfer processes, which can vary significantly between operators. The PTA’s proposed unified policy seeks to eliminate these inconsistencies by ensuring users can transfer their eSIM profiles multiple times without incurring additional charges.
Standardized eSIM policies are becoming increasingly important as telecom operators worldwide transition toward digital-first customer onboarding and device management.
Pakistan’s 5G Preparations Continue
The committee was informed that 499 sites supporting 5G services have already been deployed, with telecom operators expecting visible 5G coverage across major urban areas by the end of the year.
PTA officials noted that Pakistan currently has 15.6 million 5G-compatible devices, a figure expected to grow steadily as consumers upgrade their smartphones. The regulator was also directed to encourage greater affordability of 5G-enabled handsets to accelerate adoption.
Officials added that migration to 5G is expected to improve the overall performance of existing 4G networks by easing congestion and enabling more efficient use of network resources.
Network Expansion Targets Underserved Areas
Improving mobile coverage outside urban centres remained another key focus of the committee meeting.
PTA said it is working with the Universal Service Fund (USF) to eliminate coverage gaps along highways, motorways and other underserved locations. The regulator has also introduced live monitoring of telecom towers and is using open-source monitoring tools to improve network oversight.
National roaming has already been implemented along the Makran Coastal Highway, while similar arrangements for motorway networks are currently under consideration to improve connectivity for travelers.
The PTA chairman also highlighted Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology as a future solution for extending broadband and mobile connectivity to remote and difficult-to-reach regions.
SIM Verification Could Expand Beyond Biometrics
The Senate committee also reviewed existing procedures for SIM issuance when biometric verification fails.
Currently, exemptions are available under limited categories through medical certification or verification by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). However, lawmakers directed the PTA to explore additional identity verification methods, including retina scanning and facial recognition via mobile applications, to simplify the registration process while maintaining security.
The move reflects broader efforts to modernize digital identity verification as mobile services become increasingly integrated into financial services, e-government platforms and digital commerce.
Why This Matters
The proposed eSIM transfer policy represents an important step toward improving Pakistan’s digital mobile experience as eSIM-enabled smartphones become more common. Standardizing transfer rules across operators can reduce customer friction while encouraging wider adoption of digital SIM technology.
At the same time, updates on 5G deployment, network expansion and alternative digital identity verification demonstrate that Pakistan’s telecom sector is advancing on multiple fronts. Together, these initiatives support the country’s broader objectives of expanding digital connectivity, improving service quality and preparing the infrastructure needed for next-generation mobile services.
Editor’s Note
Pakistan’s telecommunications sector is gradually shifting from expanding basic connectivity to enhancing the overall digital experience. As technologies such as eSIM, 5G and digital identity verification become mainstream, regulators will need to balance innovation with consumer protection and market competition. A unified eSIM framework is a practical example of this approach, removing unnecessary barriers for users while encouraging digital adoption. Combined with investments in 5G infrastructure and emerging satellite connectivity, these reforms position Pakistan to build a more flexible, resilient and digitally inclusive communications ecosystem.
