Pakistan’s PTA introduced strict SIM registration limits per CNIC to reduce SIM fraud, mobile crime, and identity theft. Understanding these limits helps you manage your registered SIMs and stay compliant with Pakistani telecom regulations.
The current rule in 2026 is a maximum of 5 voice SIMs and 3 data SIMs per CNIC in total across all networks. This is a combined total, not a per-network limit. You can split your voice SIMs in any combination across Jazz, Zong, Telenor, Ufone, and SCOM, but the combined total cannot exceed 5 for voice and 3 for data.
Why PTA Enforces SIM Limits
PTA enforces SIM limits for several important reasons. These limits prevent SIM fraud and identity theft using stolen CNICs, reduce mobile-based criminal activity and spam calls, ensure an accurate NADRA-linked SIM registration database, and help Pakistan comply with international telecom security standards.
Without these limits, criminals could register unlimited SIMs on stolen CNICs, making it nearly impossible to trace illegal activity back to the actual perpetrator.
How to Check Your Current SIM Count
Send your 13-digit CNIC number to 668 via SMS. The service is free, takes under 30 seconds, and shows your total SIM count across all networks.
For a network-by-network breakdown with registration dates, visit cnic.sims.pk. If the count shown by 668 or cnic.sims.pk is higher than the number of SIMs you actually own and use, unauthorised SIMs have been registered on your CNIC without your knowledge.
What Happens When You Exceed the Limit
PTA’s DIRBS (Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System) is a fully automated enforcement system that monitors and blocks non-compliant SIMs in real time. It integrates with NADRA’s biometric database and all operator systems.
Any registration beyond the per-CNIC limit is automatically blocked by DIRBS without prior warning. This system also blocks unverified SIMs after 120 days and devices not properly registered with PTA.
The critical risk for innocent Pakistanis is that if criminals register SIMs using your stolen CNIC and push the total count past the legal limit, DIRBS can automatically block your legitimate SIMs without any notification or appeal.
How to Remove Extra SIMs When You Have Hit the Limit
If you have hit your SIM limit or discovered SIMs registered on your CNIC without your knowledge, you can take immediate action. Visit the nearest franchise of the relevant network operator with your original CNIC and request de-registration.
To register a new SIM when you are at the limit, you must first have an existing SIM deregistered. The standard process involves noting the network name and count from the 668 reply, visiting cnic.sims.pk for the full detailed list with SIM numbers, visiting the concerned network’s nearest franchise with your original CNIC, requesting immediate blocking and de-registration of unauthorised SIMs, and filing a complaint at complaint.pta.gov.pk or calling PTA’s helpline 0800-55055.
How to Deactivate Extra SIMs in Pakistan
Corporate SIM Limits
Individual CNIC holders follow the voice and data SIM limits described above, but businesses operate under a different framework.
Companies registered with SECP can apply for corporate SIM quotas through their respective telecom operators. These quotas are tied to the company’s National Tax Number (NTN) and vary based on business size and contract terms. The 668 SMS and 667 methods only work for personal CNIC-registered SIMs, not corporate SIMs.
Protecting Your CNIC From SIM Fraud
SIM fraud using stolen or forged CNICs is a serious offence in Pakistan. To protect yourself, never share your CNIC copy with unauthorised vendors or unverified SIM sellers. Always get SIMs from official franchise outlets or verified retailers to ensure proper documentation.
Write “Only for [specific purpose] — Not for SIM issuance” across any CNIC copies you must provide. Run an SMS check via 668 every few months so new illegal SIMs are caught early. If a SIM is registered on your CNIC without your consent, the fraudster can use it for banking OTPs, WhatsApp fraud, or illegal activity, and you may receive legal notices for actions you never took.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many SIMs can I register on one CNIC in Pakistan?
PTA allows a maximum of 5 voice SIMs and 3 data SIMs in total across all networks per CNIC.
How do I check how many SIMs are registered on my CNIC?
Send your 13-digit CNIC number to 668 via SMS. The service provides an instant count. Alternatively, visit cnic.sims.pk for a detailed breakdown.
What if I find SIMs I did not register?
Visit the operator’s franchise with your original CNIC to request de-registration. Report to PTA at 0800-55055 and, if fraud was involved, file an FIA complaint at complaint.fia.gov.pk.