Is Starlink in Pakistan Now? Latest News, Speed, & Rates
Starlink is becoming a popular internet choice for rural areas all over the world where wires and fiber internet aren’t accessible. With this hype, people living in Pakistan are also concerned about whether is Starlink in Pakistan Now.
Recently,
On January 4th, 2025, Elon Musk replied on social media platform X “We are waiting for approval from the government of Pakistan.” to a tweet by Sanam Jamali, who shows interest in Starlink in Pakistan to foster global connectivity.
On January 11th, 2025, IT and Telecom Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja cleared that satellite based internet providing company Starlink is registered with Pakistan. She said, “It is registered, and the licensing is in process.”
As of January 2025, Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet service, is not yet operational in Pakistan. Despite signing a retailer agreement with local partners, Starlink awaits approval from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to commence services.
Remember,
On (January 19th, 2022) the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) warned people not to pre-order services from Starlink, since,
- Starlink doesn’t have the necessary permission to operate in Pakistan.
- They are asking people to pay money upfront, but they can’t legally provide internet services in the country yet.
- The government is asking Starlink to stop accepting orders from people in Pakistan.
In essence, the government is advising people not to pay for Starlink services because they might not be able to receive them.
Despite these pieces of news, it’s good to know about this satellite-based internet more. Let’s read more!
Also Read Mobile Phone on Installment in Pakistan: Your 2024 Guide!
What is Starlink?
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX. It aims to provide high-speed data and low-latency broadband internet globally. The array of thousands of Starlink’s small satellites provides internet speed up to 150 Megabits per second (Mbps).
This satellite base internet is considered best for remote and underserved areas. It utilizes a network of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to deliver internet connectivity.
Starlink Internet Speed
According to Starink users may experience a downloading speed between 25 to 250 Mbps. Mostly, 100Mbps is the average speed experienced by Starlink users.
However, SpaceX hopes that the development of next-generation satellites will make it possible for a single Starlink dish to receive 1Gbps speeds in the future.
Is Starlink Faster Than Fiber?
Can Starlink replace fiber? The simple answer is No!
Fiber is always a better choice than any satellite based internet service. Also, it depends on your needs too. Fiber offers a dependable, affordable, fast maximum and median speed that has significantly less latency, and unmatched stable connection.
But the only drawback of fiber optic is, that it’s not accessible everywhere. However, it will be safe to say that Starlink is still far away from the benefits of fiber internet. Due to multiple benefits, most internet users prefer fiber internet over Starlink.
Is Starlink faster than 5G?
No comparison here too!
A 5G network delivers average download speeds between 50 Mbps and 2Gbps. It’s impressive, right? While Starlink limits downloading speeds between 25 to 250 Mbps.
So, the answer is pretty simple, if you have 5G internet, you are already enjoying faster internet as compared to offered by Starlink.
Is Starlink Approved in Pakistan?
The Starlink in Pakistan launch date hasn’t been confirmed yet. Although this satellite internet provider company has a retailer agreement with PAKSAT and is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), but Starlink still doesn’t have the NOC for licensing from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
However, if this internet service launches in Pakistan, what would be the expected cost for it? Here we go for the answer to this question too.
What is the Expected Rate of Starlink in Pakistan?
Tech sources have indicated that Starlink is to be launched with a premium pricing range in Pakistan.
Residential Package Cost: In Pakistan, residential users may expect to pay between Rs. 6,800 to Rs. 28,000 (Almost USD 24 to USD 100) every month. This cost is for internet speed between 50-250 Mbps. Also, the one-time hardware installation will cost you Rs. 97000 (about USD 350).
Commercial Package Cost: As per business requirements of higher speed between 50-500Mbps, we are anticipating a monthly price range of Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 95,000 (almost 286 to 339 USD). And the hardware installation for any commercial setup might cost a hefty amount of around Rs. 220,000 (about USD 786).
Mobility Package Cost: To improve the transport sector, Starlink also offers mobility packages worldwide. In Pakistan, the monthly cost is PKR 50,000 for speeds between 50-250 Mbps. To install hardware for this purpose, you need to spend PKR 120,000.
Global Comparison of Starlink Pricing
Starlink pricing on the Global level varies due to factors like speed variations, geographic location, local market conditions, service quality, and infrastructure costs.
Here is a quick overview of Starlink priced in different countries:
- United States: USD 110 monthly with a USD 599 hardware fee.
- United Kingdom: £89 monthly with a £499 hardware fee.
- Australia: AUD 139 monthly with an AUD 709 hardware fee.
- Nigeria: USD 24 but was recently doubled.
- Malaysia: MYR 199 (about USD 45) monthly.
- Philippines: PHP 2,700 (about USD 48) monthly.
- Austria: EUR 50 (about USD 55) monthly, reduced rates as compared to the past.
How to Subscribe to Starlink?
Here are simple steps for new users to subscribe to Starlink:
- To check availability, go to the Starlink website and enter their address.
- To guarantee a place in line, pay a refundable fee (often USD 99).
- Get the Starlink Kit, which comes with wires, a mounting tripod, a power supply, a Wi-Fi router, and a dish.
- Follow the Starlink app’s setup instructions after placing the dish in a clean, open space with a view of the sky.
The system will connect to the satellites itself. So users can get instant internet access!
Wrapping Up
Starlink is poised to revolutionize internet connectivity with its satellite-based service. While it is not currently available in Pakistan, the company is in the process of obtaining the necessary approvals.
Prospective users are advised to stay informed through official channels and await further announcements regarding service availability and pricing in Pakistan.
However, if someone wants to get the service at their own risk, mind the premium pricing of Starlink Internet. You’re gonna pay a lot for this satellite-based internet in Pakistan.
Despite the costly Starlink packages, the service might be a good option for rural areas that lack wired internet services and are facing challenges in connecting globally!
FAQs About Starlink in Pakistan
How much is Starlink per month?
Starlink’s monthly subscription fee globally is approximately $110, but this rate may vary based on regional pricing and taxes. For Pakistan, the exact pricing details are yet to be finalized, as Starlink is still awaiting government approval to operate.
What is the speed of Starlink in Pakistan?
Starlink promises impressive internet speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 250 Mbps globally for standard users, with potential speeds reaching 1 Gbps for premium plans. However, since Starlink is not officially available in Pakistan yet, these speeds remain hypothetical for the region.
Does Pia work with Starlink?
Yes, reports suggest that PIA (Pakistan International Airlines) has collaborated with Starlink to test satellite-based internet on its flights. However, this partnership is still in an experimental phase, contingent upon Starlink obtaining necessary regulatory approvals from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
