Islamabad: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has revised the eligibility criteria for investment in Naya Pakistan Certificates (NPCs), allowing a broader range of non-resident individuals and entities to participate, the central bank announced on Tuesday.
Under the updated rules, all non-resident persons eligible to open accounts such as Foreign Currency Value Accounts, Foreign Currency Business Value Accounts, Non-Resident Pakistani Rupee Value Accounts, and Non-Resident Business Rupee Value Accounts can now invest in both conventional and Sharia-compliant NPCs.
The changes follow recent government amendments to the NPC framework aimed at expanding participation and simplifying access for overseas Pakistanis.
In addition, the SBP has updated its consolidated customer onboarding framework, extending the scope of Roshan Digital Accounts to include all non-resident individuals and legal entities incorporated or registered abroad, as defined under the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. Digital onboarding is now permitted for both residents and non-residents, including individuals and corporate entities.
For corporate customers, banks regulated by the SBP can verify information and documents through online portals of relevant authorities, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan. Verification may also be supported via apostilled, consularised, or notarised documents where required.
The central bank stated that these revisions aim to streamline account opening, remove inconsistencies across account types, strengthen regulatory compliance, and facilitate new banking relationships for non-resident investors.
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