Stop worrying about your imported iPhone getting blocked! If you have an iPhone XS or newer model, it has a hidden Second SIM IMEI for its eSIM that must be registered with PTA, or your phone could be partially blocked. Finding this second IMEI is simple, and this step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to locate it and complete your PTA DIRBS registration in under 10 minutes to avoid any service disruption.
Many iPhone users face network issues because they only register the physical SIM’s IMEI, forgetting the digital eSIM IMEI. The PTA system treats both as separate identities. This guide will ensure you register your iPhone correctly and enjoy full dual-SIM functionality without any legal hassles.
| Key Registration Fact | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Devices Affected | iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 & newer (all Dual SIM models) |
| Second IMEI Type | eSIM (Digital SIM) IMEI |
| Official Portal | DIRBS PTA Portal |
| SMS Service | Dial *8484# from any Pakistani SIM |
| Mandatory | Yes, both IMEIs must be registered. |
Which iPhone Models Have a Second SIM IMEI?
First, confirm if your iPhone is a Dual SIM model. Most modern iPhones have this feature. The main models include:
- iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 series and newer
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 15 series
If you own any of these, you have two IMEI numbers to register.
How to Find Your iPhone’s Second SIM IMEI? (Step-by-Step)
Finding the eSIM IMEI is very easy. Follow these steps on your iPhone:
- Open Settings: Tap the Settings app on your home screen.
- Go to General: Scroll down and select “General”.
- Tap About: Select the “About” option at the top.
- Scroll to IMEI: Scroll down the list. You will see two IMEI numbers listed.
- Note Both Numbers: The first IMEI is for the physical nano-SIM slot. The second IMEI is for your eSIM. Write down both numbers carefully.
Alternative Method to Find IMEI:
- Dial *#06# on your iPhone’s keypad. It will display both IMEI numbers on the screen instantly.
How to Register Both IMEIs with PTA DIRBS?
Once you have both IMEI numbers, registration is straightforward. You have two main options:
Option 1: Register via DIRBS Online Portal
- Visit the official portal: https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk
- Click on “Device Registration”.
- Select “Dual SIM” as your device type (this is crucial).
- Enter both IMEI numbers in the required fields.
- Follow the on-screen steps, provide your details (Passport/CNIC), and pay the applicable tax if any.
- Submit the form. You will receive a confirmation SMS.
Option 2: Register via SMS (*8484#)
- Dial *8484# from any active Pakistani SIM card in your phone.
- Select the option for “Dual SIM Device Registration”.
- Enter the first IMEI when prompted.
- Then, enter the second IMEI (eSIM IMEI) when prompted.
- Follow the SMS instructions to complete the process.
| Common Mistake | Correct Action |
|---|---|
| Registering only one IMEI | Always select “Dual SIM” and enter both numbers. |
| Entering IMEI incorrectly | Double-check digits from Settings > General > About. |
| Using wrong portal | Only use the official DIRBS PTA portal. |
| Ignoring tax payment | Pay any calculated tax to complete registration. |
FAQs
1. What happens if I only register one IMEI?
If you only register the physical SIM’s IMEI, your eSIM will be blocked by PTA. You will only be able to use one line, and the second (eSIM) line will show “No Service.”
2. Is there a different tax for the second IMEI?
No. You pay the tax once for the device itself. When registering a dual-SIM iPhone, you are declaring both IMEIs for the same single device, so no extra tax is charged for the second IMEI.
3. My iPhone is already PTA approved. Do I need to do this?
If you bought a locally sourced, PTA-approved iPhone, both IMEIs are already registered. This guide is for phones imported from abroad (personally or via someone else) that are not yet registered in Pakistan’s system.
4. Can I register the eSIM IMEI later?
Yes, but your eSIM will remain blocked until you do. It is best to register both IMEIs together during the initial registration process to avoid any service interruption.
5. How can I check my iPhone’s PTA approval status?
Dial *8484# from any Pakistani SIM and enter your first IMEI number. The system will reply with the status of both IMEIs if registered correctly.
Conclusion
Registering your iPhone’s Second SIM IMEI with PTA is a simple but essential step to unlock your phone’s full potential in Pakistan. By following the easy steps to find both IMEI numbers in your Settings > General > About menu and selecting the “Dual SIM” option during DIRBS registration, you can ensure complete compliance and seamless service on both lines. Avoid future network issues—complete your device registration today.
This article is for informational purposes only. SmartFixers.pk is not an official government website and is not affiliated with any government department. Readers are advised to verify all information from official government sources before taking any action.
Our editorial team publishes original and informational content for educational purposes only.
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