Pakistan defines a license for satellite internet, but rules are still being prepared
Pakistan has introduced a licensing category for low Earth orbit satellite broadband internet, but a detailed regulatory framework is still needed for the commercial launch of services. As Dawn reports, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority completed the licensing system in April 2026.
The new license allows the provision of broadband access, backhaul connectivity, capacity and enterprise network services. At the same time, it does not cover direct-to-device connectivity, mobile satellite communications, earth stations in motion or broadcasting. Therefore, the current license category does not provide for internet access for airline passengers or smartphone connectivity outside cellular coverage areas.
Requirements for operators
Operators of low Earth orbit satellite networks must be registered in Pakistan and obtain a license. They must also build a gateway earth station in the country within 18 months, route all domestic traffic through it and store user data within the country.
The license requires an operator to ensure, before launching services, the technical ability to intercept the traffic of a specific user at the request of law enforcement agencies. The Dawn article notes that similar requirements already apply to Pakistan's mobile operators and internet service providers, and are also applied to satellite operators in India, Bangladesh and the United States.
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Fees and regulatory barriers
The one-time license fee is $500,000, while recurring payments amount to about 2.5% of annual gross revenue. A separate 6% contribution is provided for a space-sector development research fund controlled by the Strategic Plans Division. The total burden is estimated at about 8.5% of revenue, compared with about 4% in India and 3–5.5% in Bangladesh.
The licensing zone for fixed satellite services does not include Azad Jammu and Kashmir or Gilgit-Baltistan. According to the article's authors, satellite communications may be particularly needed in these regions because of weak infrastructure, a small number of base stations and remote valleys.
At least four global operators are seeking licenses, including Starlink, Amazon's Kuiper and China's Qianfan. The detailed regulatory framework is to be developed by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board. It has engaged the London-based company Access Partnership, which has already submitted recommendations, but the final framework, according to Dawn, has not yet been completed.
