Last updated on October 19, 2025
No, it is not allowed to use satellite phones in Pakistan without prior authorization — and unlicensed use can lead to serious legal consequences.
Pakistan regulates satellite communication under its telecommunication and space laws. According to the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996, and the regulations issued by the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB) and the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), satellite phones fall under restricted radio frequency devices. Their use requires formal approval from the relevant authorities.
The FAB’s 2023 notification outlines that only authorized users — those who have been assigned frequencies and registered under the law — may operate satellite communication equipment. Unauthorized possession or use of satellite phones, especially in sensitive regions, may be treated as a violation of national security protocols. This is particularly enforced near border zones and conflict-prone areas, where satellite signals are monitored closely.
Additionally, the Pakistan Space Activities Rules (2024) require satellite operators providing radiocommunication services to register with PSARB and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). This includes any entity or individual intending to use satellite-based communication systems within Pakistan.
So yes, satellite phones can be used in Pakistan — but only if you’re registered, licensed, and operating within the approved frequency bands. Unauthorized use is not just illegal; it can trigger investigations by security agencies.
See more on PAKISTAN
Sources