The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has launched a new portal for registering Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), aimed at boosting security in the country’s expanding IT and e-commerce sectors. The registration process is divided into four categories: companies, freelancers, call centers, and video conferencing users, with each group requiring specific documentation.
For companies, applicants must submit their CNIC along with proof of incorporation or active taxpayer status. Freelancers need to provide their CNIC and a letter from their employer confirming their status. Call centers must submit the CNIC, proof of incorporation or active taxpayer status, a registration certificate from the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and, if applicable, a fee for registering five or more IP addresses. Video conferencing users must provide their CNIC, an incorporation letter or official documentation from government or company authorities, and a fee for registering five or more IP addresses.
The PTA’s online portal allows applicants to register VPNs or request IP whitelisting. While VPN registration itself is free, a fee is required for whitelisting five or more IP addresses.
In related developments, sources suggest that the federal government is considering extending the VPN registration deadline until December 2024. This follows resistance from various stakeholders regarding the current deadline of November 30. The extension request comes as the move to block unregistered VPNs, scheduled for December 1, could severely impact Pakistan’s growing freelance sector, which contributes around $400 million annually to the economy.
