Starlink’s license to offer satellite internet services in Pakistan has faced additional delays as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) decided not to grant a full license based solely on temporary registration. The decision follows clarification from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), which stated that Starlink currently holds only temporary registration and must complete all necessary regulatory steps to obtain permanent status.
Starlink received its temporary registration from PSARB on March 21, but official sources have confirmed that the PTA will only issue a full operational license once Starlink has completed the permanent registration process with PSARB.
Starlink representatives confirmed that they are awaiting final clearance from Pakistani authorities to launch their satellite internet services. However, they emphasized that the reasons for the ongoing delays could only be clarified by the government and PTA.
IT Minister Shaza Fatima had previously informed the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information Technology that Starlink’s services were expected to begin by November or December 2025. She highlighted Starlink and China’s Shanghai Space as key players poised to enter Pakistan’s satellite internet market.
Despite this setback, PTA Chairman had earlier indicated that Starlink’s temporary registration would be upgraded to a full license once the regulatory framework was finalized. While official service commencement remains contingent on meeting all legal and regulatory requirements, Starlink is reportedly proceeding with its infrastructure preparations.
