Pakistan Grants Temporary NOC to Starlink

The Government of Pakistan has granted a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink by SpaceX, allowing it to move forward with launching satellite internet services in the country. The decision came after a directive from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, as shared by IT Minister Shaza Khawaja.

@Ministry of IT and Telecom Pakistan said the NOC was approved through a joint process involving all key security and regulatory agencies. This includes Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Comission (SUPARCO), and the Cybercrime Wing.

The NOC marks a key step toward improving internet access in underserved areas. Starlink’s low-earth orbit satellites can provide fast internet to remote regions.

To start full operations, Starlink must complete license payments and meet technical standards. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority – PTA will issue the formal license after reviewing compliance. The launch of Starlink services will depend on the setup of gateway locations and frequency approvals, which Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission – SUPARCO has already finalized.

The government has also hired an international consultant to help draft the final rules for satellite-based internet in Pakistan. The license is expected within four weeks.