Abstract: A method and system for improving overall system capacity in GSM networks by reducing the number of visitor location register queries is disclosed. The method and system determines if subsequent calls for a mobile terminal which has been detached by its subscriber from the GSM network should require querying of its visiting mobile switching center and HLR based on the call arrival characteristics of the subscriber. A “call-arrival-after detach” counter is created at the home location register and visitor location register for tracking the number of incoming calls that occur during the interval when the subscriber has detached. The value of this counter is compared for every incoming call to a threshold level value for determining if the call is to be forwarded. The threshold level value is determined on the past call arrival characteristics of the subscriber.