Venezuela’s telecom regulator, Conatel, announced on October 9, 2026 that it has legally authorized Starlink-brand satellite internet service nationwide. That is an approval, not yet availability: plans, prices and signup dates have not been announced.
What Conatel approved
According to Conatel’s statement, as reported by El Diario and EFE (via Infobae; see also TeslaNorth and El Nacional), its board approved General Authorization HGTS-00639 and seven general concessions in the Ku band for SpaceX’s local company, SPACEX VZ, S.C.A. This allows a formal operation with a local domicile under Venezuelan oversight.
Background
Conatel says the authorization follows temporary test permits it granted after the June 24, 2026 earthquake that damaged networks in La Guaira state. Those tests included text messaging between Venezuela’s three mobile carriers over Starlink satellites.
Announced, approved, available
- Approved: the authorization and concessions (announced October 9, 2026).
- Not yet announced: any confirmation from Starlink, signup dates, plans, prices, or whether equipment already in the country can be activated (TeslaNorth).
- Available: check Starlink’s official map before buying from any reseller.
Before you buy
Once service opens, compare kits with our kit comparison buying guide, plan the install with the installation guide, and browse Choose your Starlink setup.