The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced a new rule for prepaid mobile services. All mobile operators must keep prepaid balances valid for at least 180 days.
The new requirement will take effect on October 1, 2026. It will give prepaid customers more time to use their mobile balance.
PTA said the decision aims to strengthen consumer protection. The regulator also wants to ensure consistent practices across all mobile operators.
Under the new directive, prepaid balances and recharges must remain valid for the minimum period. Operators will need to adjust their policies before the rule becomes effective.
180-Day Validity for Prepaid Users
Prepaid mobile users will receive at least 180 days of validity for their balance and recharges. This means customers will have a longer period to use their available credit.
The measure is designed to create a common minimum validity period. Customers will not have to deal with different minimum validity rules among operators.
The longer validity could particularly help users with limited mobile usage. Customers who recharge less frequently will have additional time to consume their available balance.
PTA expects all mobile operators to comply with the new requirement. The rule will apply from October 1, 2026.
The regulator said the decision forms part of broader efforts to protect telecom consumers. It also aims to promote fair practices within the sector.
Expired Balance Can Be Restored
PTA has also issued clarification about expired prepaid balance. Customers may have their expired balance restored after making another recharge.
The restoration applies when the SIM remains active and usable. The process will be handled according to the Consumer Protection Regulations.
This provision gives customers additional protection after their balance expires. It also provides clarity about what happens when users recharge an active number.
For example, an active prepaid customer with expired balance can recharge the number. The applicable expired balance should then be restored under the regulations.
Mobile operators must follow these requirements when handling eligible customer accounts. The clarification is intended to prevent unfair treatment of prepaid users.
PTA Strengthens Consumer Protection
The latest directive is part of PTA’s efforts to improve consumer protection. The authority has emphasized fair and consistent practices across the telecom industry.
A uniform validity period can make prepaid services easier for customers to understand. It can also reduce differences between operators regarding balance expiration.
Mobile companies will have to ensure their systems and recharge policies meet the new requirements. The 180-day minimum will become mandatory from October 1.
PTA’s decision provides prepaid customers with a longer period to use their balances. It also establishes clearer rules for restoring expired credit.
The regulator has urged operators to follow the new requirements and existing consumer protection regulations. Compliance will be important once the directive comes into force.
The new policy is expected to bring greater consistency to prepaid mobile services. It also reflects PTA’s continued focus on protecting telecom consumers in Pakistan.
In other related news also read PTA Confirms Internet Restored Across Pakistan After Fault
From October 1, 2026, prepaid users will receive at least 180 days of validity. Customers with active SIMs can also benefit from the balance restoration provision.
