The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has successfully registered 20,000 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in the country, and the registration process remains ongoing. The initiative is primarily directed towards organizations and entrepreneurs employing VPNs for professional purposes, to optimize the process and ensure adherence to regulatory standards.
Who can Register?
The VPN registration process is open to:
- Software houses
- Call centers
- Financial institutions (banks)
- Embassies
- Freelancers
- Members of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB)
- Anyone using a VPN for commercial purposes
Steps to Register VPN
- Gather Required Documents: Before starting the registration, ensure you have the following details on hand:
- CNIC number
- Business or company registration details
- Taxpayer status
- VPN IP address (fixed IP can be obtained from your Internet Service Provider)
- For freelancers, proof of employment or a project letter from your client.
- Visit PTA’s Official Website: Visit the official website of PTA and locate the VPN registration section on the homepage.
- Fill Out the Online Form: Complete the online registration form carefully. Double-check the information provided to ensure it is accurate.
- Submit Your Application: After filling in the form, review it thoroughly and submit your application for processing.
- Wait for Approval: PTA processes applications within 8-10 hours. You will receive an approval notification through email or via the PTA portal.
Freelancers are advised to select the “Freelancer” category when submitting their applications and to provide the requisite documentation evidencing their project or company affiliation to enhance the efficacy of their application.
The registration procedure is completely complimentary, and applicants are advised to retain a copy of their application along with any supporting documentation for future reference. Should applicants experience any difficulties or have inquiries, they are encouraged to refer to the guidance section on the PTA’s website or to reach out to their customer support team for assistance.
As the registration process progresses, the PTA is actively engaged in assisting businesses and freelancers who utilize VPNs for commercial purposes. This initiative aims to ensure regulatory compliance while simultaneously augmenting cybersecurity measures for users throughout Pakistan.
