Starlink Gets NOC to Launch in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: In a significant development, the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Authority (PSARA) has issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink, confirming that the company has met all regulatory requirements, according to sources.

Following clearance from the Ministry of Interior, the PSARA granted the NOC, paving the way for Starlink’s operations in Pakistan.

Sources told ProPakistani that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is expected to issue licenses to Starlink within the next two weeks. Starlink has already submitted its application for a license to the PTA.

The company has provided the PTA with its technical and business plans and has successfully completed three registration phases in Pakistan. Starlink obtained registration from the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB). Additionally, it has registered with the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Authority.

The final step involves obtaining registration from the PTA, after which the company will be able to start its services. The PTA is currently reviewing the documents submitted by Starlink, ensuring that the company’s services will not disrupt the existing network.

Pakistan introduced its National Satellite Policy in 2023, and in 2024, it implemented Space Activities Rules to strengthen space communication in the country. With these developments, Starlink is poised to enhance internet connectivity across Pakistan, marking a new era in the country’s internet landscape.

Starlink’s arrival to improve internet connectivity

In a statement, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said that Starlink has been granted temporary registration in Pakistan following 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 said.

She added that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) would oversee compliance with fee payments and other licensing requirements by the company.

Read more: PTA Confirms Talks with Starlink for Satellite Internet in Pakistan

Khawaja said that, under the prime minister’s leadership, Pakistan is making significant strides towards digital transformation. “The prime minister has directed comprehensive reforms to enhance Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, and Starlink’s registration is a major step forward in this journey,” she added.

Calling the approval for satellite-based internet services a milestone, the minister said, “Modern solutions like satellite internet will greatly enhance connectivity, particularly in underserved and remote areas of the country.”