Pakistan has expanded its Roshan Digital Account scheme to allow foreign nationals, companies, and institutional investors to participate, after the diaspora-focused programme surpassed 900,000 accounts and 12 billion dollars in total inflows.
A Programme Built for the Diaspora
The Roshan Digital Account was launched by the State Bank of Pakistan in September 2020 to connect non-resident Pakistanis with the country’s banking and investment system. Account holders can invest in government securities, Naya Pakistan Certificates, the Pakistan Stock Exchange, and mutual funds, all without needing to visit a branch in person.
Why the Government Is Expanding Access
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said extending the framework to foreign individuals and institutions would broaden Pakistan’s investor base and deepen domestic financial markets. Naya Pakistan Certificates currently offer rates of up to 9.00 percent for USD denominations and 2.50 percent for PKR denominations, as of April 2026.
The Role of Remittances in the Bigger Picture
Pakistan’s diaspora, estimated at around 11 million people, sent remittances exceeding 38.3 billion dollars in fiscal year 2025, a 26.6 percent increase from the previous year. Remittances are projected to reach approximately 42 billion dollars in fiscal year 2026, with Pakistan now ranking fifth globally among remittance-receiving countries.
What This Means Going Forward
Officials say the expanded RDA framework, combined with simplified withholding tax rules and full repatriation rights for profits, is designed to position Pakistan as a more attractive and transparent destination for international capital. The government has stated that all profits earned through RDA accounts can be repatriated without requiring separate State Bank approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Roshan Digital Accounts have been opened so far?
More than 900,000 accounts have been opened, with total inflows exceeding 12 billion dollars as of February 2026.
Can foreign nationals now open a Roshan Digital Account?
Yes, the scheme has been expanded to allow foreign nationals, companies, and institutional investors to participate.
How much are Pakistan’s remittances expected to reach in 2026?
Remittances are projected to reach approximately 42 billion dollars in fiscal year 2026.
