The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is continuing its process of registering VPN service providers, with two new applications received, adding to the two licenses already granted. These licenses fall under the class license for data services.
The PTA aims to register a total of seven VPN providers by May. Following the completion of this registration process, the government may choose to block certain VPNs, based on criteria that haven’t yet been specified.
Around 40 VPNs are currently operational in Pakistan. PTA officials have clarified that the final decision on blocking any VPN services will be made by the federal government. They also stated the PTA presently does not support closing VPNs.
The initiative to register VPN providers started in December 2024. Companies that successfully obtain a PTA license will be authorized to legally provide VPN services within Pakistan.