The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has directed PTML to immediately stop issuing new ONIC SIM cards and eSIMs, as well as suspend new activations, subscriptions and related marketing and commercial activities.
The regulatory decision affects the purchase of new ONIC connections, while existing customers have been given reassurance that their current services will continue without interruption.
Under the PTA directive, PTML has been provided a period of three months to transfer all existing ONIC customers to PTML and complete the migration process.
The process is also expected to ensure that customer information, records and data remain protected during the transition.
The development has attracted attention among telecom users because ONIC has established itself as a digital-focused mobile service in Pakistan, offering SIM and eSIM-based connectivity.
For people who are already using ONIC services, the immediate situation is different from that faced by prospective customers. The PTA order stops new subscriptions and related activities, but ONIC says existing users should continue receiving services.
In an official statement, ONIC reassured its customers that there would be no disruption to its services during the current process.
The company said customers could continue using their services without interruption and emphasized its commitment to connectivity, customer support and service quality.
ONIC also stated that its customers remain its top priority and thanked users for their continued trust and confidence.
The three-month period allowed for migration gives PTML time to move existing ONIC customers while addressing the protection of their records and data.
Customer data protection is likely to remain an important part of the transition, particularly because telecom operators maintain information associated with subscribers and their mobile connections.
The PTA directive means customers looking to purchase a new ONIC SIM or eSIM may no longer be able to complete a new subscription while the order remains in effect.
Existing users, however, have been told that their services will not be disrupted. Customers should continue to follow official communications from ONIC and PTA for information about the migration process.
The development also highlights the regulatory role of the PTA in Pakistan’s telecommunications sector. The authority oversees telecom operators and can issue directions concerning mobile services, subscriptions and commercial activities.
For consumers, the key question is whether existing ONIC connections will continue working during the transition. Based on ONIC’s official statement, current customers can continue using their services without interruption.
The company has also indicated that it remains committed to maintaining connectivity and support while the transition takes place.
As the three-month migration period progresses, ONIC customers may receive further information about the transfer of their services and records to PTML.
The latest decision does not represent an immediate shutdown of ONIC services for existing subscribers. Instead, it involves a halt to new connections and a planned migration of current customers under the PTA’s instructions.
Customers are advised to rely on official announcements for further details and avoid unverified information regarding the status of their ONIC numbers, SIMs or eSIMs.
The telecom sector will continue to watch the implementation of the PTA directive as PTML works to complete the migration of existing ONIC customers within the specified three-month period.
