Pakistan Sets New Licence Rules For Satellite Internet Providers

Pakistan has introduced a comprehensive licensing framework for satellite internet providers, aimed at streamlining market entry while ensuring data security. According to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), companies seeking licences must now establish local earth gateway stations and ensure that user data remains hosted within the country’s jurisdiction.

To oversee compliance, the PTA has set up a dedicated Satellite Directorate that will process applications in coordination with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB). Only firms that secure PSARB registration will be eligible for a national operating licence. Officials expect approvals to be granted within weeks once the technical and regulatory requirements are met.

The new framework replaces multiple permits with a single national licence, eliminating the need for local loop and long-distance licences. This change, aligned with the national Telecom Policy, is designed to simplify operations and speed up deployment for providers.

Emphasizing data sovereignty, authorities have ruled that foreign operators cannot store Pakistani user data offshore if services require local handling. The measure is intended to protect national security and improve regulatory oversight.

Global companies including Starlink, Amazon Kuiper, and several Chinese firms have expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. PTA has confirmed that licences will be issued soon after PSARB finalises permanent registrations. The updated regime aims to balance fast-track approvals with strict technical conditions for gateway infrastructure, security, and service rollouts.