Pakistan is taking another step to attract overseas investment as the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) updates its rules for Naya Pakistan Certificates and Roshan Digital Accounts. The latest policy changes aim to make it easier for non-resident individuals and foreign entities to invest in Pakistan, strengthening foreign exchange inflows and improving confidence in government-backed instruments.
The SBP Naya Pakistan Certificates initiative has received a major boost after the central bank revised Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to widen investor eligibility. Under the updated rules, all non-resident individuals and foreign entities can now invest in both conventional and Shariah-compliant Naya Pakistan Certificates.
This change follows amendments notified through Gazette notifications dated March 16, 2026. The revised framework significantly expands access to government-backed savings instruments, particularly targeting Pakistanis living abroad and international investors.
The policy update means that eligible non-residents holding the following accounts can now invest in SBP Naya Pakistan Certificates:
• Foreign Currency Value Accounts (FCVA)
• Foreign Currency Business Value Accounts (FCBVA)
• Non-Resident Rupee Value Accounts (NRVA)
• Non-Resident Business Rupee Value Accounts (NRBVA)
These accounts serve as the gateway for overseas investors to participate in Pakistan’s financial markets without complicated procedures.
Stronger Compliance Measures for Smooth Investment
The central bank has also instructed agent banks to strictly follow the updated SOPs. The objective is to ensure secure, transparent, and seamless investment procedures for non-resident investors.
This move is expected to:
• Increase foreign participation in government-backed instruments
• Improve Pakistan’s foreign exchange inflows
• Strengthen investor confidence in financial markets
• Support economic stability through diversified funding sources
For overseas Pakistanis, the SBP Naya Pakistan Certificates offer a safe investment option with competitive returns, backed by sovereign guarantees.
Roshan Digital Accounts Expanded for Global Businesses
In a parallel development, the central bank has expanded its Consolidated Customer Onboarding Framework, extending Roshan Digital Accounts (RDA) to all non-resident individuals and legal entities.
Previously focused mainly on overseas Pakistanis, the updated framework now includes:
• Companies registered abroad
• Foreign businesses and investors
• Other juridical entities defined under the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001
This decision further enhances Pakistan’s appeal as an investment destination by simplifying cross-border financial access.
No Change for Overseas Pakistanis Account Opening
The SBP clarified that the onboarding process for overseas Pakistanis and Persons of Pakistani Origin (POC) remains unchanged. Banks have been directed to ensure a smooth and seamless customer experience while implementing the new rules.
The revised instructions are effective immediately, and all SBP-regulated entities must comply fully.
Why This Matters for Pakistan’s Economy
The expansion of SBP Naya Pakistan Certificates and Roshan Digital Accounts is part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to:
• Attract foreign direct and portfolio investment
• Promote digital banking adoption
• Encourage remittances through formal channels
• Strengthen foreign reserves
By allowing global investors and businesses to participate, Pakistan aims to build stronger financial connectivity with its diaspora and international markets.
Growing Importance of SBP Naya Pakistan Certificates
The popularity of SBP Naya Pakistan Certificates has grown due to:
• Government-backed security
• Shariah-compliant investment options
• Easy digital access via Roshan Digital Accounts
• Competitive returns compared to global instruments
With expanded eligibility, participation from overseas Pakistanis and foreign investors is expected to rise significantly in the coming months.
The latest SBP reforms mark a significant step toward improving Pakistan’s investment environment. By expanding SBP Naya Pakistan Certificates and Roshan Digital Accounts to foreign investors and entities, the country is positioning itself as a more accessible and investor-friendly market.
These changes not only support foreign inflows but also reinforce Pakistan’s digital banking ecosystem, creating new opportunities for overseas Pakistanis and global investors alike.