PTA Proposes One-Year Trial Registration for IoT Technology Testing in Pakistan

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has proposed a one-year trial period for companies and organisations seeking to test Internet of Things (IoT) technology in Pakistan, according to a draft regulatory framework now under consideration.

Under the draft IoT and Low Power Wide Area Networks (IoT-LPWAN) Licensing Regulations 2026, the regulator has introduced a special registration category dedicated to research, development and testing of connected devices and networks. This registration would remain valid for one year and would cover networks established within a single premises for testing and research purposes.

Applicants would be required to pay an initial registration fee of Rs. 2,000 along with a non-refundable application processing fee of Rs. 1,000. They would also need to submit technical details and other required documentation through the PTA's online system.

The draft regulations also set conditions for companies that use satellite connections and other services to transfer data between their network equipment. IoT operators would be required to route all backend traffic, including satellite links, through a Local Access Provider (LAP) licensed by the PTA. Applicants would also have to identify the licensed provider responsible for connecting their network gateways to their central network servers. The PTA has cautioned that using an unlicensed provider for this connectivity could lead to cancellation of the relevant licence or registration.

The proposed rules would apply to IoT and LPWAN services across Pakistan and establish separate categories for licensed services, registered operations and exempt activities. The regulations are set to take effect after their publication in the official gazette.

According to the PTA, the proposed one-year trial category is intended to let organisations test new connected-device technologies in a controlled environment before moving toward commercial operations.