In a significant development for Pakistan’s digital landscape, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has granted a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink, the satellite-based internet service owned by Elon Musk. This approval marks a pivotal step towards enhancing internet connectivity across the country.

Temporary Approval Details

IT Minister Shaza Fatima announced that the temporary NOC was issued following directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and with consensus from all relevant security and regulatory agencies. This interim approval allows Starlink to initiate operations in Pakistan, with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) set to oversee the completion of fee payments and other licensing requirements.

Background and Regulatory Process

Starlink has been actively pursuing entry into the Pakistani market, having registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) in December 2021 as “Starlink Internet Services Pakistan (Private) Ltd.” The company applied for a Long Distance and International (LDI) license with the PTA in February 2022. The approval process faced delays due to Starlink’s initial non-compliance with Pakistan’s technical and regulatory frameworks, including concerns over potential interference between Geostationary Satellite Orbit (GSO) and Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) systems. ​

Implications for Pakistan’s Internet Services

The introduction of Starlink’s satellite internet services is anticipated to significantly improve connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved regions of Pakistan. This aligns with the government’s objectives to enhance the country’s IT infrastructure and promote digital development. The temporary NOC represents a collaborative effort among various national agencies to facilitate modern solutions for internet accessibility.

With the temporary NOC in place, Starlink is expected to work closely with the PTA to fulfill all remaining licensing requirements. This includes completing fee payments and adhering to any additional regulatory stipulations. Successful completion of these steps will pave the way for Starlink to commence full operations, offering high-speed satellite internet services to Pakistani consumers.​

Conclusion

The granting of a temporary NOC to Starlink marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its internet infrastructure. As Starlink progresses towards full operational status, it holds the potential to revolutionize internet accessibility, bridging the digital divide and fostering socio-economic growth across the nation.​