The government of Pakistan has decided to expand the Roshan Digital Account (RDA) scheme, allowing foreign nationals, international companies, and institutional investors to open accounts and invest in government securities and Naya Pakistan Certificates.
The announcement was made by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, who said the expansion was approved on the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The move aims to attract more foreign investment and strengthen Pakistan’s connection with global financial markets through a secure digital banking platform.
According to the minister, the expanded framework will allow foreign nationals and international investors to open Roshan Digital Accounts and invest in government securities as well as Naya Pakistan Certificates, which offer attractive returns.
Highlighting the importance of overseas Pakistanis, Aurangzeb said the country’s diaspora of around 11 million people remains a major pillar of the national economy. These expatriates contribute significantly to the country through remittances and investment while also representing Pakistan globally.
Data from the State Bank of Pakistan shows that Pakistan recorded historic remittances of over $38.3 billion in fiscal year 2025, reflecting a 26.6 percent increase compared to the previous year. The government expects remittances to reach around $42 billion in fiscal year 2026.
The finance minister noted that remittances remain a critical factor in stabilizing Pakistan’s external account and strengthening foreign exchange reserves. Currently, the reserves held by the State Bank of Pakistan stand at approximately $16.3 billion, while the country’s total foreign exchange reserves are around $21.6 billion.
The Roshan Digital Account initiative was originally launched on September 10, 2020, by the State Bank of Pakistan in collaboration with commercial banks to enable overseas Pakistanis to access Pakistan’s banking and investment ecosystem through a fully digital process.
Through the platform, account holders can open bank accounts remotely, invest in government securities, trade on the Pakistan Stock Exchange, invest in mutual funds, and purchase property in Pakistan.
Officials said the initiative has achieved major success since its launch. As of February 2026, more than 900,000 Roshan Digital Accounts have been opened, with total inflows exceeding $12 billion.
Aurangzeb added that expanding the scheme to foreign nationals and institutional investors will further strengthen Pakistan’s financial markets and improve the country’s attractiveness as a global investment destination.
The government has also invited international investors to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan, emphasizing ongoing economic reforms, improved digital infrastructure, and a transparent financial environment aimed at encouraging global capital inflows.
