Pakistan expands Roshan Digital Account to foreign investors

Pakistan will expand its Roshan Digital Account program to allow foreign nationals, companies and institutional investors to invest in the country’s financial instruments, the Prime Minister’s Office said Friday.

The decision was taken on the directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to the statement.

The move will enable overseas investors to participate in Roshan Digital Accounts, government securities and Naya Pakistan Certificates. Officials said the step aims to strengthen links with global financial markets and promote foreign investment through digital platforms.

The government said the initiative reflects Pakistan’s effort to deepen financial connectivity and attract international capital. It builds on the country’s overseas Pakistani community of about 11 million people.

Pakistanis living in the Middle East, Europe, North America and East Asia contribute to their host economies while sending remittances back home. Officials described overseas Pakistanis as a key economic pillar and representatives of Pakistan’s culture and business potential abroad.

According to the State Bank of Pakistan, remittances rose to $38.3 billion in the fiscal year 2025, a 26.6% increase from the previous year. They are projected to reach $42 billion in fiscal year 2026.

The central bank said Pakistan ranks fifth globally and second in South Asia among remittance-receiving countries. Remittances are a critical component of the country’s external account stability.

Foreign exchange reserves held by the central bank stand at about $16.3 billion, with total reserves near $21.6 billion, the bank said.

Launched on Sept. 10, 2020, the Roshan Digital Account scheme allows non-resident Pakistanis to open bank accounts remotely and access investment opportunities without visiting the country.

Operating under the slogan “Door reh kar bhi paas” (“Close even from afar”), the program enables overseas Pakistanis to invest in government securities, Naya Pakistan Certificates, the Pakistan Stock Exchange, mutual funds and other digital banking services.

Officials said the program has made significant progress over the past five and a half years. As of the end of February 2026, more than 900,000 accounts had been opened, with total investments exceeding $12 billion.

Sharif congratulated the finance ministry, the central bank and participating banks on the program’s performance. He said expanding access to foreign investors would further position Pakistan as an attractive investment destination and broaden its financial markets.

Finance officials said Pakistan is ready for investment, citing ongoing reforms, a strengthened digital ecosystem and expanded financial services aimed at ensuring a transparent, secure and business-friendly environment.

They urged global investors to take advantage of opportunities in Pakistan and participate in the country’s economic growth.