The PTA lifetime validity prepaid balance proposal could significantly change how mobile users in Pakistan manage their SIM cards. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has suggested that unused prepaid balance should remain valid for the entire active life of a SIM.
The proposal aims to improve consumer protection in Pakistan’s prepaid-dominated telecom market. If approved, it would end the current practice of prepaid balance expiry.
Under existing policies, many Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs) set balance validity periods ranging from 30 to 365 days, depending on recharge amounts. Once this period expires, operators may forfeit the unused balance.
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This has prompted complaints from users, especially those with low balances or who use secondary SIM cards. Consumers who travel abroad or temporarily suspend use of their numbers also risk losing any remaining funds.
By proposing lifetime validity, PTA seeks to ensure that prepaid users retain their balance as long as their SIM remains active.
The authority has invited public and industry stakeholders to provide feedback. The consultation period will remain open until March 16, 2026. The outcome could reshape balance policies across Pakistan’s telecom sector.
