For freelancers, IT companies, and organizations that rely on secure online access, VPN usage has remained a sensitive and confusing topic in Pakistan. Many users were unsure which VPNs were legal and how to avoid service disruptions. In a major clarity move, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially started licensing local VPN providers and has also opened a formal registration system for users.
This update explains what PTA has announced, how many VPNs are licensed so far, who can register, how the system works, and where users can check the official list of licensed VPN names.
What Has PTA Announced About VPNs
PTA has begun issuing licenses to local VPN service providers under the Class License for the Provision of Data Services. This step brings VPN services into a regulated framework instead of leaving them in a grey area.
So far, nine local VPN providers have been officially licensed, allowing them to legally offer VPN services within Pakistan.
At the same time, PTA has also launched a dedicated VPN Registration Portal to help individuals and organizations register their VPN usage for lawful and uninterrupted access.
How Many VPN Providers Are Licensed So Far
According to PTA’s official documentation:
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Total licensed local VPN providers: 9
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Licensing category: Class License for Data Services
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Status: Active and approved by PTA
The authority has confirmed that the complete and updated list of licensed VPN operators is available on PTA’s official website for public verification.
PTA has not encouraged relying on third-party lists and has advised users to check names directly from its official portal to avoid misinformation.
List of Currently Authorized to Offer VPN Services in Pakistan
- Alpha 3 Cubic (Private) Limited – Brand: Steer Lucid
- Nexilium Tech (SMC-Private) Limited – Brand: Kestrel VPN
- UKI Conic Solutions (SMC-Pvt.) Limited – Brand: QuiXure VPN
- Vision Tech 360 (Private) Limited – Brand: Kryptonyme VPN
- Zettabyte (Private) Limited – Brand: Crest VPN
Where to Check the Official List of Licensed VPN Names
PTA has made the information publicly accessible.
How Users Can Verify Licensed VPNs
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Visit PTA’s official website
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Open the section related to VPN licensing / data services
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View or download the document listing authorized VPN providers
This list is maintained by PTA and may be updated as more providers are licensed.
VPN Registration Portal – What It Is and Why It Matters
Alongside licensing VPN companies, PTA has introduced a VPN Registration Portal for users who need VPN access for legitimate purposes.
The portal is designed to support:
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Secure remote work
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Lawful business operations
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Compliance with telecom regulations
This system helps PTA distinguish between legitimate VPN usage and misuse.
Who Can Register Their VPNs
PTA has clearly defined eligible categories for VPN registration.
Eligible Users Include
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Software houses
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Call centers
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Banks and financial institutions
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Embassies and diplomatic missions
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Freelancers and remote workers
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Corporate organizations
Each category has slightly different documentation requirements, but the process remains fully online.
What Information Is Required for Registration
Applicants must submit basic but verifiable details.
Required Information Includes
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CNIC (for individuals or freelancers)
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Company or organization details (if applicable)
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VPN technical information
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IP address used for VPN access
Freelancers are allowed to apply under a separate category, where they may need to show proof of active work, such as project emails or confirmation from clients or employers.
If required, users can obtain a fixed IP address from any PTA-licensed Internet Service Provider.
Is There Any Fee for VPN Registration
PTA has confirmed that:
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VPN registration is completely free
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No processing or approval fee is charged
This removes a major concern for freelancers and small businesses who feared additional costs.
How Long Does Approval Take
One of the most important points for users is processing time.
Approval Timeline
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VPN registration approvals are usually issued within 8 to 10 working hours
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Applications with missing or incorrect information may be delayed
Since the launch of the portal, more than 30,000 users and entities have already registered, showing strong adoption of the system.
New IP Whitelisting Regulations – What Changed
Separately, PTA has also introduced IP Whitelisting Regulations 2024, which focus on improving network security and controlling misuse of VoIP services.
Key Points of IP Whitelisting Rules
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IPv4 or IPv6 addresses must be registered
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Applies to relevant license holders and subscribers
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Registration is done through a dedicated portal
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Processing time is usually 2 to 3 working days
Non-compliant or suspicious requests are rejected to prevent grey telephony and enhance cybersecurity.
Why PTA Took This Step
PTA says the goal is not to block work-related VPN usage, but to:
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Ensure lawful use of internet services
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Improve cybersecurity oversight
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Prevent illegal VoIP and grey traffic
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Support Pakistan’s IT and freelance economy
By licensing providers and registering users, PTA aims to create balance between digital freedom and regulatory control.
Common clarity for users
Are VPNs now legal in Pakistan?
Yes, VPN usage for lawful and registered purposes is officially supported.
Can freelancers use VPNs legally?
Yes, freelancers can register through the PTA portal with proof of work.
Is VPN registration mandatory for everyone?
It is required for users who rely on VPNs for work or business continuity.
Where can I check licensed VPN provider names?
On PTA’s official website under the VPN/data services licensing section.
Conclusion
The decision by PTA to license local VPN providers and launch a formal VPN registration system brings long-needed clarity for users across Pakistan. With nine VPN providers already licensed and over 30,000 users registered, the framework is now actively supporting secure and lawful remote connectivity.
For freelancers, IT companies, and organizations, the message is clear: use licensed VPN services, register through official channels, and stay compliant. This approach not only protects users from disruption but also strengthens Pakistan’s digital and cybersecurity landscape.
