For most overseas workers, the main reason to work abroad is to support family back home. But how you send that money matters. This guide explains how to send money to Pakistan legally from the Gulf, the best channels and the benefits of using official routes.
Every year, overseas Pakistanis send billions of dollars home. These remittances support families and also help Pakistan’s economy. Using legal channels keeps your money safe, traceable and rewarded.
Why You Should Use Legal Channels
Some workers still use hundi or hawala because they think it is cheaper or faster. But these informal channels are illegal in Pakistan and carry serious risks.
- Your money can be lost with no way to recover it
- There is no receipt or legal proof of the transfer
- You may face legal problems in Pakistan or the Gulf
- You miss out on rewards and benefits for legal remittances
Today, legal channels are fast, often free or low-cost, and give you rewards. There is no good reason to use hundi.
Legal Ways to Send Money to Pakistan
1. Banks
Most Gulf banks offer international transfers to Pakistan. You can send money from your salary account directly to a bank account in Pakistan.
Bank transfers are safe and usually reach within one or two working days, often much faster.
2. Exchange Houses
Licensed exchange houses in the Gulf are a popular choice for workers. They have branches in markets and malls, and many offer mobile apps.
You can send money to:
- A bank account in Pakistan
- Cash pickup at a partner bank branch
- A mobile wallet account
Always use well-known, licensed exchange companies and keep your receipt.
3. Mobile Apps and Online Transfers
Many banks and exchange houses now have apps. You can send money from your phone in minutes. Some international money transfer services also work with Pakistani banks.
Check that the app is official and connected to a regulated company before using it.
4. Mobile Wallets in Pakistan
Your family can receive money in mobile wallet accounts such as JazzCash and Easypaisa, through partner remittance companies. This is useful for families in villages and small towns without nearby bank branches.
Pakistan Remittance Initiative (PRI)
The Pakistan Remittance Initiative (PRI) is a joint programme of the State Bank of Pakistan, the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and the Ministry of Finance. Its goal is to make legal remittances faster, cheaper and easier.
Under PRI, many eligible remittances can be sent without charges for the sender, as the cost is covered by the scheme. Check the current rules and minimum amount with your bank or exchange house.
Sohni Dharti Remittance Program
The Sohni Dharti Remittance Program (SDRP) rewards overseas Pakistanis for sending money through legal channels. You earn loyalty points on every eligible remittance.
You can use these points to pay for services in Pakistan, such as:
- Passport and NICOP fees
- Customs duties on certain items
- PIA tickets and some other government services
Register through the SDRP mobile app and link your remittances to collect points.
Roshan Digital Account
The Roshan Digital Account (RDA) is a bank account for non-resident Pakistanis, opened fully online. It allows you to:
- Keep savings in foreign currency or Pakistani rupees
- Invest in certain government savings schemes
- Pay bills, school fees and expenses in Pakistan
- Buy property in Pakistan
Many Pakistani banks offer RDA. You can open it from the Gulf using your passport and CNIC/NICOP.
Tips to Save Money on Transfers
- Compare exchange rates between banks and exchange houses
- Check the total cost, including fees and the rate
- Send larger amounts less often instead of many small transfers
- Use offers and promotions from licensed exchange houses
- Ask if your transfer is covered under PRI free remittance rules
How to Send Money Safely
Follow these simple safety steps:
- Always use a licensed bank or exchange house.
- Double-check the receiver’s name, account number and IBAN.
- Keep the receipt or transaction ID.
- Share the transaction ID only with the receiver.
- Never give your app PIN or OTP to anyone.
Scammers sometimes call workers pretending to be from a bank. No real bank will ask for your PIN or OTP over the phone.
Saving for the Future
Working abroad is often for a limited time. It is smart to save part of your salary every month, not just send it all home for spending.
- Set a fixed monthly saving target
- Open a savings account or Roshan Digital Account
- Avoid lending large amounts without written proof
- Plan for your return to Pakistan in advance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hundi or hawala legal in Pakistan?
No. Informal money transfer through hundi or hawala is illegal and risky. Use banks and licensed exchange houses only.
How fast does money reach Pakistan?
Most legal transfers reach within minutes to one working day, depending on the channel and bank.
Can my family receive money without a bank account?
Yes. They can use cash pickup at partner banks or receive money in a mobile wallet.
Final Words
Sending money through legal channels keeps your hard-earned income safe and gives you benefits like free transfers and loyalty points. Use banks, licensed exchange houses and official apps, and always keep your receipts.
Planning to work abroad? Read our Saudi visa guide and UAE visa guide, and explore the latest Overseas Jobs on Jobszeen.