The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced new rules for prepaid mobile users. Under the policy, every prepaid recharge or balance will remain valid for at least 180 days. The new regulations will take effect from October 1, 2026.
According to the PTA, nearly 97 percent of mobile subscribers in Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan use prepaid services. The regulator noted that expired balances often result in financial losses for consumers. Therefore, the new measures aim to provide stronger protection for users.
Under the revised framework, operators must ensure a minimum six-month validity period for all prepaid balances. Moreover, any balance that expires while a SIM remains active must be restored automatically after the next recharge. The PTA has also prohibited unfair commercial practices during policy implementation.
New Rules Focus On Consumer Protection
The decision follows widespread complaints regarding the loss of unused prepaid balances. Many consumers argued that forfeited balances unfairly reduce their available funds. Consequently, the regulator reviewed the issue through public consultations.
Feedback from the consultation process showed strong support for permanent balance validity. Many participants also favoured balance restoration or refunds through a CNIC-based mechanism. As a result, the PTA examined several options before finalising the new policy.
Telecom Operators Raise Implementation Concerns
While consumers welcomed the proposals, several operators expressed reservations. Telenor, PTML, and CMPak highlighted technical challenges linked to indefinite balance validity. They also pointed to potential fraud risks, ownership disputes, and increased operational costs.
Meanwhile, Jazz informed the regulator that it already provides lifetime balance validity. However, the PTA maintained that stronger safeguards remain necessary across the sector. Therefore, it moved ahead with the revised framework.
The authority stressed that the policy will protect millions of prepaid users from permanent balance losses. Furthermore, the decision seeks to improve transparency and strengthen consumer confidence in mobile services nationwide.
