PTA grants licenses to 9 local VPN providers as over 30,000 users register in Pakistan

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has started licensing Virtual Private Network service providers under the Class License for the Provision of Data Services in Pakistan. Nine companies have already been authorized to offer VPN services in the country. Details about the application process, eligibility criteria, and the list of licensed operators are available on the authority’s official website for public reference.

To facilitate secure remote connectivity for individuals and organizations, PTA has launched a dedicated VPN Registration Portal. This initiative enables lawful use of internet-based services and provides a structured system for software houses, call centers, banks, embassies, and freelancers to register their VPNs online. Applicants are required to submit basic information, including CNIC, company details, IP address, and VPN specifications. Freelancers can apply under a separate category by providing proof of ongoing work, such as project-related emails or letters from employers. If necessary, applicants may obtain a fixed IP address from any licensed Internet Service Provider.

The registration process is free of charge, and approvals are typically granted within eight to ten working hours. Since the portal’s launch, more than 30,000 entities and freelancers have successfully registered their VPNs, supporting secure and reliable remote work while ensuring regulatory compliance. The system aims to promote responsible internet usage and strengthen Pakistan’s IT and freelance sectors.

In addition, PTA has introduced the IP Whitelisting Regulations 2024, designed to enhance network security, prevent grey telephony, and ensure lawful use of Voice over Internet Protocol services. Under these regulations, all IPv4 and IPv6 addresses must be registered through a dedicated portal. The rules apply to relevant licensees and subscribers, with applications processed within two to three working days. Non-compliant requests are rejected to prevent misuse of VoIP channels and improve cybersecurity resilience across the country.