Starlink
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink, marking a crucial step towards the launch of the satellite-based internet service in Pakistan. Sources confirmed the development on Friday, stating that this approval moves Starlink closer to obtaining a full PTA license required to operate in the country.
According to officials, the Pakistan Space Activity Regulatory Board had earlier approved the issuance of the NOC, which was a prerequisite for Starlink’s licensing process. This decision followed instructions from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing digital connectivity and bringing advanced internet solutions to Pakistan.
Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and initially applied for a telecom license on February 24, 2022. The application was later referred to the Ministry of IT in March 2022 for further consultation. Now, with the NOC secured, Starlink’s licensing process is in its final stages, paving the way for its official entry into the Pakistani market.
However, despite securing the NOC, Starlink will not be able to launch its services immediately. Even after obtaining its PTA license, the satellite internet provider is expected to take up to a year to roll out operations across the country. This delay is primarily due to regulatory integration, infrastructure development, and additional security clearances required before service deployment.
Starlink’s Entry into Pakistan
The latest progress follows a high-profile meeting between PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman and the Starlink team at the GSMA Mobile World Congress 2025, held in Barcelona, Spain. The discussions focused on expanding digital connectivity, making broadband more affordable, and addressing the digital divide, particularly in Pakistan’s underserved and remote areas.
PTA has reiterated its commitment to fostering innovation in the telecom sector and supporting emerging technologies. However, before Starlink can officially begin operations, it must finalize its registration with the relevant satellite regulatory body, a necessary step for obtaining PTA’s satellite-based internet service license.
Starlink’s Impact on Pakistan’s Internet Market
Industry experts view Starlink’s arrival as a transformative move for Pakistan’s broadband sector, particularly in rural and remote regions where traditional broadband infrastructure is either absent or unreliable. Unlike fiber-optic and mobile internet networks, Starlink’s low-earth orbit satellite system offers high-speed internet connectivity even in the most inaccessible locations.
While the technology holds great promise, concerns have been raised about the affordability of Starlink’s service in Pakistan. The expected pricing structure may put it beyond the reach of many ordinary users.
Expected Starlink Packages & Pricing in Pakistan
Although an official launch date has not been confirmed, initial reports indicate that Starlink is likely to introduce three service packages in Pakistan:
- Residential Package: Rs35,000 per month (50-250 Mbps) with a one-time hardware installation cost of Rs110,000.
- Business Package: Rs95,000 per month with a one-time setup fee of Rs220,000.
- Mobility Package: Rs50,000 per month with a one-time hardware cost of Rs120,000.
The high cost of Starlink’s service, particularly the one-time installation charges, has raised concerns about accessibility for the average Pakistani consumer. Many analysts believe that unless prices are adjusted, Starlink may remain a premium service targeted at businesses and high-income individuals rather than a mass-market solution.
Challenges Ahead for Starlink in Pakistan
Even after obtaining its full PTA license, Starlink will still face several challenges before it can begin offering services in Pakistan. These include setting up necessary ground stations, acquiring security clearances, and integrating its operations within the country’s existing telecom infrastructure. Industry sources suggest that these steps could take at least a year to complete.
Additionally, Pakistan’s regulatory framework for satellite internet services differs from traditional broadband services. Satellite-based internet requires additional approvals related to security and spectrum allocation, which could further extend the timeline for Starlink’s official rollout.
The Future of Pakistan’s Internet Landscape
Despite these challenges, Starlink’s eventual launch in Pakistan is expected to intensify competition in the broadband market. Local internet service providers (ISPs) may be forced to improve their services, reduce prices, and expand coverage in response to Starlink’s entry. This competition could ultimately benefit consumers by providing better connectivity options across the country.
While the exact launch date remains uncertain, Starlink’s presence in Pakistan is now a matter of “when” rather than “if.” With regulatory approvals progressing and infrastructure development underway, the country is on track to become one of the first in the region to embrace satellite-based broadband technology.
