Tech billionaire Elon Musk’s company named Starlink is one of the world’s most advanced companies to provide internet connectivity through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
In January, Musk said that Starlink had submitted its application to launch internet services in Pakistan and was awaiting government approval.
The company first submitted its application for a Long Distance International (LDI) licence on February 24, 2022. Later, on April 29, 2022, it applied for 14 Local Loop licences to facilitate its satellite internet operations in the country.
Finally, the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) has given the green light to Starlink by approving a no-objection certificate (NoC).
This marks a major step toward advancing Pakistan’s digital connectivity.
IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced that Starlink had received temporary registration in Pakistan following directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The decision was made after all relevant security and regulatory bodies reached a consensus.
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According to sources, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is expected to issue Starlink’s official licence within the next two weeks. However, it may take up to a year before the company begins offering services to Pakistani consumers.
Expected Rates For Starlink Internet Packages in Pakistan:
| Package | Speed | Monthly Cost (PKR) | One-Time Hardware Cost (PKR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential | 50-250 Mbps | 35,000 | 110,000 |
| Business | Higher Speeds | 95,000 | 220,000 |
| Mobility | 50-250 Mbps | 50,000 | 120,000 |
Starlink has already registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under the name Starlink Internet Services (Private) Limited and has applied to set up two or three ground stations in the country.
The PSARB granted its approval after Starlink met all the necessary requirements under the National Satellite Policy 2023 and the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024.
IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted that the approval of satellite internet services is a transformative step for Pakistan’s digital future.
She stated that, “The government has worked closely with all relevant institutions under a ‘whole-of-government’ approach to improve internet services”.
