The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has introduced a revised Facilitation Framework for the opening of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Sahulat Accounts, marking a significant step toward digitizing financial inclusion mechanisms for low-income households across Pakistan. The updated framework builds on the earlier BPRD Circular No. 01 dated April 8, 2024, and is set to be piloted in eight cities before a nationwide rollout.
This revised initiative focuses on enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and security of financial aid disbursement by enabling banks to directly onboard BISP beneficiaries. The cities included in the pilot phase are Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Quetta, Peshawar, Muzaffargarh, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. Once tested and refined, the system will be expanded to additional regions across the country.
The onboarding process involves a secure data-sharing mechanism between BISP and designated banks. BISP will pre-screen beneficiaries’ details—including CNICs, names, addresses, and other identification elements—through NADRA to ensure the accuracy and validity of the information. After receiving this verified data, banks will perform screening against global and national compliance watchlists, such as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions and the Anti-Terrorism Act lists.
Accounts will be opened in branches specifically identified by BISP. Upon completion of verification, banks will generate International Bank Account Numbers (IBANs) for the new accounts and securely share them with BISP. Initially, these accounts will remain inactive until physical biometric verification is completed by the beneficiaries during a scheduled visit to the respective branch. In cases where biometric verification cannot be performed, the banks will rely on NADRA Verisys as an alternative method for account activation.
A key component of the revised framework is the introduction of digital support tools for beneficiaries. A dedicated SMS short code and a web portal will allow beneficiaries to receive information on their assigned bank, branch location, and appointment schedule. Upon visiting the bank, beneficiaries will be required to provide biometric verification and submit key personal information. In return, they will be issued cheque books or PayPak debit cards, depending on their case.
To ensure wide accessibility, banks have been directed to enable biometric-based withdrawals through both branches and ATMs. Until this biometric ATM functionality is fully operational, disbursements will be made via cheques. Beneficiaries using PayPak debit cards will eventually be able to withdraw funds from any bank’s ATM without incurring additional charges for off-us transactions.
Banks will also establish dedicated coordination teams to liaise with BISP and ensure smooth issue resolution. Moreover, staff training sessions are to be conducted to help employees facilitate the account setup and PIN activation process. A 24/7 customer support mechanism is mandated to manage queries and grievances efficiently.
This revised framework represents a strong push toward digital transformation and financial inclusion for underbanked populations. By leveraging biometric authentication, secure data handling, and expanded ATM access, the SBP’s initiative aims to simplify the disbursement process while maintaining strict compliance and user dignity. The move also aligns with Pakistan’s broader goal of advancing digital banking and public sector efficiency through technological infrastructure.