The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has granted the No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink, marking a significant step toward the launch of the satellite-based internet service in Pakistan, sources confirmed on Friday.
According to officials, the Pakistan Space Activity Regulatory Board had approved the issuance of the NOC, which was a mandatory requirement for Starlink to obtain a PTA license. The decision was made following the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting the government’s commitment to expanding digital connectivity.
Starlink, which registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), had applied for a telecom license on February 24, 2022. The case was later referred to the Ministry of IT for consultation in March 2022.
Now, with the NOC secured, the process for granting Starlink’s official license is in its final stages, sources added.
However, even after receiving the PTA license, Starlink is expected to take up to a year before rolling out services across Pakistan. The delay is attributed to the regulatory integration, infrastructure development, and security approvals required for seamless operations.
Starlink’s Pakistan entry
The latest developments follow a high-level meeting between PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman and the Starlink team at the GSMA Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
The discussion revolved around expanding digital connectivity, providing affordable broadband access, and bridging the digital divide in underserved regions.
PTA has reiterated its commitment to enabling emerging technologies and fostering innovation in the telecom sector. However, before Starlink can begin operations, it must complete its registration with the relevant satellite regulatory body—a prerequisite for obtaining PTA’s satellite-based internet service license.
Despite these procedural hurdles, industry analysts see Starlink’s entry as a game-changer for Pakistan’s internet landscape, especially for rural and remote areas where traditional broadband remains inaccessible or unreliable.
Expected Starlink Packages & Pricing in Pakistan
Although an official launch date is yet to be announced, initial reports suggest that Starlink will introduce three service packages in Pakistan, with the following expected pricing:
- Residential Package: Rs35,000/month (50-250 Mbps) with a one-time hardware installation fee of Rs110,000.
- Business Package: Rs95,000/month with a one-time setup cost of Rs220,000.
- Mobility Package: Rs50,000/month with a one-time hardware cost of Rs120,000.
While Starlink’s speeds and satellite connectivity offer significant advantages over conventional broadband, concerns remain over the high pricing of its packages, making it less accessible for the average Pakistani consumer.
Even after receiving its PTA license, Starlink will face multiple challenges before launching its services in Pakistan. Industry sources indicate that setting up ground stations, obtaining security clearances, and ensuring seamless integration within the existing telecom ecosystem will take at least a year.
Another key issue is the regulatory framework governing satellite internet services. Unlike traditional fiber or cellular networks, satellite-based internet requires additional security and spectrum allocation approvals, which could further impact rollout timelines.
However, Starlink’s eventual launch in Pakistan is expected to intensify competition within the broadband sector, potentially forcing existing internet service providers (ISPs) to improve their offerings.
