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The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has initiated the licensing of Virtual Private Network (VPN) service providers under its Class License for the Provision of Data Services, formally authorizing nine local companies to offer VPN services in the country.
According to an official PTA document, information related to the application process, eligibility criteria, and the list of licensed VPN operators has been published on the authority’s website to ensure public access and transparency.
Licensed VPN Service Providers
| Company Name | VPN / Licensing Details |
|---|---|
| Alpha 3 Cubic Pvt Ltd | Steer Lucid |
| Zettabyte Pvt Ltd | Crest VPN |
| Nexilium Tech SMC-Pvt Ltd | Kestrel VPN |
| UKI Conic Solutions SMC-Pvt Ltd | QuiXure VPN |
| Vision Tech 360 Pvt Ltd | Kryptonyme VPN |
| Qybitz Solutions | Licensed VPN provider |
| Dynamic Networks | Licensed under CVAS-Data regime |
| Redtone Telecommunications | Licensed under CVAS-Data regime |
| Nexlinx | Licensed under CVAS-Data regime |
To facilitate secure remote connectivity for individuals and businesses, PTA has also launched a dedicated VPN Registration Portal. The platform allows organizations and professionals including software houses, call centers, banks, embassies, and freelancers, to register their VPN usage online through the PTA website.
The document outlines that applicants are required to submit basic details such as their CNIC, company information, IP address, and VPN specifications. Freelancers can register under a separate category by providing evidence of active work, including project-related emails or employer-issued letters. In cases where a fixed IP address is required, applicants may obtain one from any PTA-licensed internet service provider.
The authority has clarified that the registration process is free of charge, with approvals typically issued within eight to ten working hours.
Since the launch of the portal, more than 30,000 entities and freelancers have successfully registered their VPNs. PTA stated that the initiative is aimed at supporting secure and reliable remote work while maintaining regulatory compliance, particularly for Pakistan’s growing IT and freelance sectors.
Meanwhile, the PTA has introduced the IP Whitelisting Regulations, 2024, requiring relevant license holders and subscribers to register their IPv4 or IPv6 addresses through a dedicated portal to strengthen network security, curb grey telephony, and regulate lawful VoIP usage, with applications processed within two to three working days and non-compliant requests rejected to prevent misuse and improve cybersecurity oversight.
