The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced a minimum 180-day validity period for prepaid mobile recharge and balance across all Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs) in Pakistan.
According to a PTA press release, the new requirement will come into effect from October 1, 2026, as part of the authoritys efforts to protect telecom consumers and promote the availability of affordable telecommunication services.
Under the new policy, prepaid mobile users will be entitled to a minimum validity period of 180 days for their recharge or available balance. The measure is aimed at strengthening consumer protection and ensuring greater fairness in the countrys telecommunications market.
The PTA further clarified that any expired balance will automatically be reinstated and become usable when the consumer performs a subsequent recharge during the active life of the SIM. This provision will apply in accordance with the Telecom Consumers Protection Regulations.
The authority said the initiative reflects its continued commitment to protecting consumer rights, promoting fair market practices and fostering innovation in Pakistans telecommunications sector.
The new 180-day balance validity requirement is expected to provide greater convenience and protection to millions of prepaid mobile subscribers across the country.
