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A new State Bank rule has disrupted digital banking services in Pakistan, affecting millions of JazzCash and Easypaisa users nationwide. The central bank has made biometric verification mandatory for all account and wallet holders, enforcing stricter compliance measures starting today.
Under the updated framework, all banks, digital banks, microfinance institutions, and mobile wallet providers must complete biometric verification for their customers. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) had previously allowed a 60-day grace period, which has now expired, meaning unverified users risk being locked out of their accounts.
The change could temporarily restrict access for millions of users who rely on JazzCash, Easypaisa, and other digital wallets to send and receive money, make payments, or access remittances, including Roshan Digital Accounts.
According to the SBP, the decision is part of its broader effort to strengthen Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering Financing of Terrorism (CFT) regulations. The revised Consolidated Customer Onboarding Framework now requires biometric verification before activating any account, with no exceptions for customers using CNIC, NICOP, POC, ARC, or POR documents.
Experts say the new State Bank rule enhances financial security but could cause short-term disruptions due to the limited compliance window. With digital transactions and mobile wallets rapidly expanding across Pakistan, this blanket regulation is expected to impact users nationwide.
Customers are urged to complete their biometric verification immediately to avoid losing access to funds or transaction services. While the move marks a significant step toward a more secure financial system, it has also raised concerns about readiness and accessibility among Pakistan’s growing base of digital banking users.
