Pakistan Aims for Fully Digital Remittances from Overseas Workers

Jul 14, 2026

81 min

Jul 14, 2026 13:30

Pakistan targets 100% digital remittances from overseas workers

## Push for a Cashless Economy

Pakistan is striving to digitize all remittances sent by its overseas workers as part of a broader initiative to establish a cashless economy. This move is expected to impact millions of expatriates, particularly those in the UAE.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed officials to ensure that remittances from abroad become entirely digital. This transition is anticipated to enhance transparency, efficiency, and economic growth.

## Current Progress and Future Goals

During a recent high-level meeting, it was revealed that 92% of remittances were already processed through digital channels in the past year. The government now aims to achieve 100% digital remittances.

Pakistan has seen significant advancements in digital payments. The number of merchants accepting QR-code payments has surged by 300%, reaching about two million. Mobile banking users have increased from 95 million to 137 million, and the country recorded 11.9 billion digital transactions between July 2025 and June 2026.

## Broader Digital Finance Strategy

The government is also focusing on digitizing public services. Payments to the National Database and Registration Authority are nearly all digital, and the Benazir Income Support Programme now uses digital wallets for its 10 million beneficiaries.

Additionally, the Roshan Digital Account scheme, initially for overseas Pakistanis, has been expanded to include foreign nationals and investors. This is part of a wider strategy to improve financial transparency and inclusion.

A high-level committee is overseeing the transition to a cashless economy, with an independent assessment expected later this year. This shift towards digital banking channels is particularly relevant for overseas Pakistanis, especially those in Gulf countries, who contribute significantly to remittance inflows.

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