Islamabad – March 2025: In a major development for Pakistan’s digital landscape, the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Authority (PSARA) has officially granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink, clearing the way for the satellite internet provider to begin operations in the country.

According to sources, the NOC was issued following security clearance from the Ministry of Interior, marking a critical milestone in Starlink’s entry into the Pakistani market. The next and final step is the issuance of licenses by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), expected within the next two weeks.

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Starlink’s Regulatory Journey in Pakistan

Starlink, a satellite internet venture by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has made steady progress in securing its foothold in Pakistan. The company has already completed three major registration phases, including:

• Registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP)
  
• Approval from the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB)
  
• Registration with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Authority (PSARA)
  

With technical and business plans submitted, the PTA is now conducting a final review to ensure Starlink’s operations will not disrupt the country’s existing telecommunications network.

Temporary Registration and Government Support

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, confirmed that Starlink has been granted temporary registration in Pakistan on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

“With the consensus of all security and regulatory bodies, Starlink has been issued a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC),” she stated.

She emphasized that the PTA will closely monitor Starlink’s compliance with licensing requirements and associated fee payments. “Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Pakistan is undergoing a digital transformation, and Starlink’s registration is a pivotal step in enhancing our internet infrastructure,” she added.

Boosting Connectivity Across Pakistan

The launch of satellite-based internet services through Starlink is being hailed as a transformative move, especially for underserved and remote regions in Pakistan.

“Modern solutions like satellite internet will greatly enhance connectivity in areas that are currently underdeveloped in terms of digital access,” said Minister Khawaja.

Pakistan’s push for improved digital infrastructure has been reinforced through the National Satellite Policy introduced in 2023 and the implementation of the Space Activities Rules in 2024.

As Starlink prepares to launch its services in Pakistan, the country stands on the brink of a new era in connectivity, with high-speed satellite internet promising to bridge the digital divide and empower communities nationwide.