The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has established a framework mandating the registration of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for specific users. According to official guidelines, businesses, freelancers, and other commercial entities must register their IP addresses to use VPNs legally within the country (1). This process involves submitting documentation, such as computerised national identity cards and proof of business association, to ensure compliance with national security protocols. The regulator emphasizes that this measure is intended to whitelist legitimate users rather than imposing a blanket ban on all services.
Despite these regulations, the legal standing of a complete ban on unregistered VPNs has faced scrutiny. International observers note that while authorities often threaten to disconnect non-compliant services, the enforcement has been inconsistent due to legal challenges (2). Reports indicate that the Ministry of Law questioned the government's statutory authority to block these tools entirely under existing cybercrime laws. Consequently, while the state maintains strict oversight mechanisms to filter content, the blanket prohibition of unregistered privacy tools remains a contentious and legally debated issue.
"Authorities repeatedly threatened to block VPNs operating in Pakistan without registration. Registration requirements released in November 2024 required the disclosure of information identifying customers; however, at the end of the month authorities said they would not block unregistered VPN connections."
Currently, the landscape for VPNs in Pakistan is defined by a mix of strict registration policies and practical limitations on enforcement. Users are strongly advised by the PTA to whitelist their connections to avoid potential disruptions, especially for commercial activities (1). However, civil liberty groups continue to monitor the situation, arguing that broad restrictions could infringe on digital rights. The situation remains fluid, with the government balancing security concerns against the economic necessity of unrestricted internet access for the growing tech sector (2).
Source:
https://www.pta.gov.pk/category/vpn-registration-process-55198854-2024-11-18
https://freedomhouse.org/country/pakistan/freedom-net/2025
Last updated: 14-01-2026 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
