Cumulative inflows through Pakistan’s Roshan Digital Account (RDA) scheme reached $14.157 billion by September 2026, while the total number of registered accounts increased to 975,602, reflecting continued participation by overseas Pakistanis in the country’s digital banking and investment initiative. However, monthly inflows recorded a decline during September, falling to $251 million from $259 million in August, according to the latest data released by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The figures indicate that although the programme continues to attract new account holders and foreign currency deposits, the pace of monthly inflows has moderated in recent months. The RDA scheme remains an important channel for attracting overseas Pakistani savings and facilitating investment in the country’s banking and financial system.
The September inflow figure extends a slowdown that began in July, following three consecutive months during which monthly receipts exceeded $300 million. The decline suggests that the strong inflow momentum recorded earlier in the year has moderated, although the programme continues to generate substantial foreign currency receipts. Meanwhile, the number of registered accounts increased by 9,458 during September, rising from 966,144 at the end of August to 975,602. The increase in account openings demonstrates that participation in the scheme is continuing despite the reduction in monthly deposits. The growing account base also reflects the continued use of digital banking channels by overseas Pakistanis seeking access to financial services and investment opportunities in Pakistan without having to visit bank branches physically.
According to SBP data, a portion of the cumulative RDA inflows has already been repatriated or utilised within Pakistan. Of the total $14.157 billion received through the programme, approximately $2.146 billion has been repatriated, while $8.937 billion has been utilised domestically. Combined, these two categories account for approximately $11.084 billion, leaving a net repatriable liability of $3.073 billion. The figures provide an overview of how funds entering through the scheme have been distributed between withdrawals transferred abroad and amounts deployed within the domestic economy. The domestic utilisation component represents a significant share of cumulative receipts, highlighting the role of the initiative in directing overseas Pakistani funds towards local financial and investment activities. The remaining liability is also an important indicator of the outstanding funds associated with the programme.
Launched in September 2020, the Roshan Digital Account initiative allows overseas Pakistanis to open bank accounts remotely through participating financial institutions and access a range of banking, investment and financing facilities. The scheme was introduced to provide a convenient digital channel for the Pakistani diaspora to maintain financial connections with the country and transfer funds through regulated banking channels. Over time, its scope has expanded beyond basic banking services to include investment opportunities and other financial products. The initiative has also contributed to Pakistan’s foreign currency inflows, providing an additional source of external financing and supporting the country’s foreign exchange position. Its continued development remains relevant as the government and central bank seek to attract overseas savings and increase participation in formal financial channels.
The RDA programme’s expansion has also included changes to investment options under the Naya Pakistan Certificates, which provide overseas Pakistanis with opportunities to invest in government-backed instruments. In June 2026, the SBP broadened the available currency options by introducing Saudi riyal and UAE dirham denominations alongside the existing Pakistani rupee, US dollar, British pound and euro options. The additional denominations are particularly relevant for overseas Pakistanis living in Gulf countries, allowing them to invest directly in currencies commonly used in their countries of residence. Separately, the SBP’s foreign exchange reserves stood at $21.52 billion as of October 23, 2026, with the central bank targeting an increase to $23 billion by December 2026 and $25 billion by June 2027. The continued performance of the RDA scheme, alongside other foreign currency inflows, will remain relevant to Pakistan’s broader efforts to strengthen external reserves and attract overseas investment.
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