The world is more connected today than ever before. As globalization accelerates, millions of individuals migrate abroad in pursuit of better economic opportunities. In the case of Pakistan, a significant portion of our population—estimated at over 10 million Non-Resident Pakistanis (NRPs) and Persons of Pakistani Origin (PPOs) by the end of 2018—has settled overseas. These individuals not only strengthen the economies of their host countries but also contribute substantially to Pakistan through remittances. In the fiscal year 2019–20, remittances from Pakistanis living abroad reached a record $24 billion, serving as a critical lifeline for the country's economy. Recognizing their financial potential and the need to provide them with easy access to local investment opportunities, the Government of Pakistan, in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), launched the Roshan Digital Account for Overseas Pakistani—a groundbreaking initiative enabling secure, fully digital access to Pakistan’s banking and capital markets.

What is Roshan Digital Account and Why Was it Introduced?

A Roshan Digital Account is a revolutionary financial product introduced to provide NRPs with seamless access to Pakistan’s banking and investment infrastructure. It allows Overseas Pakistanis to remotely open digital accounts with designated banks in Pakistan without having to physically visit a branch, embassy, or consulate. Through this platform, NRPs can manage their finances, remit money, pay utility bills, and invest in various asset classes including the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), government bonds, mutual funds, and Naya Pakistan Certificates—all from the comfort of their homes.

Key Features of the Roshan Digital Account

• Currency Options: Account holders can choose between PKR or foreign currency accounts, or both.
• Repatriable Funds: All funds in the account are fully repatriable, eliminating the need for regulatory approvals when transferring money back abroad.
• Eligibility: Open to Non-Resident Pakistanis, Pakistan Origin Card (POC) holders, and Pakistani government employees working abroad.
• Quick Processing: The account is typically activated within 48 hours, assuming all documents are complete and verified.
• No Minimum Balance: There is no minimum deposit or balance requirement to maintain the account.

Why Should Non-Resident Pakistanis Consider Investing in Pakistan?

The Roshan Digital Account isn’t just a convenience—it’s a strategic investment tool. Here are some compelling reasons why NRPs should take advantage of it:

• Prepare for a Secure Retirement: Whether you plan to return to Pakistan or retire abroad, investing early helps secure a financially stable future. Through the RDA, you can diversify your retirement portfolio by investing in PSX-listed companies, bonds, and government-backed securities, all from overseas.
• Generate Additional Income: Using your Roshan Digital Account, you can invest in high-return instruments such as the stock market, mutual funds, or Naya Pakistan Certificates. With careful planning, this additional income can be used to support your family in Pakistan or reinvest for future gains.
• Support Family Back Home: Remitting money for daily expenses is common, but investing enables you to multiply your income and provide more sustained financial support. Currency conversions often work in your favor—your dollar, riyal, or euro goes much further in rupees.
• Build Financial Assets: The best investment for Overseas Pakistanis is one that builds long-term financial assets. Stocks, mutual funds, and bonds purchased through your Roshan Digital Account can significantly grow your wealth and offer more security than just saving in bank accounts.

How to Open Roshan Digital Account to Invest in PSX Pakistan

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you open your account and start trading in the Pakistan Stock Exchange through a completely digital process:

1. Visit a Designated Bank’s Portal: Visit the official website of any SBP-designated bank (such as HBL, Meezan, UBL, Bank Alfalah, or others). Look for the Roshan Digital Account section, fill in the Basic Information Form, and upload the required documents.
2. Bank Contact and Account Opening: Once your initial application is received, a bank representative will contact you within 2 working days to complete the onboarding process. Once all documents and verifications are complete, your account will be activated.
3. Opt for 'Investment in Stock Market': After your bank account is activated, log in to the bank’s portal and select “Investment in Stock Market”. This option will take you through three quick steps:
   • Click ‘Consent’ to allow the bank to share your details with the Central Depository Company (CDC) and capital market entities.
   • Click ‘I Agree’ to accept the Terms & Conditions of investing in the Pakistan Stock Exchange.
   • Select Your Broker (such as AZEE Securities) as your preferred brokerage firm.
4. Broker Onboarding and CDC Package: Your selected broker will complete its due diligence and notify CDC within 24 hours. If your application is approved, you will receive a CDC Account Opening Package containing:
   • Confirmation of your Trading Account with your broker
   • Unique Identification Number (UIN)
   • Creation of your CDC Sub-Account
   • Activation of Direct Settlement Services (DSS) if opted
   • Login credentials for CDC Web Access
5. Fund Transfer and Begin Trading: Before you start trading, initiate a fund transfer from your RDA to the CDC-designated bank account. Once the funds are credited, you can begin trading in Pakistan’s stock market using your broker’s web or mobile trading platform.

Learn Before You Invest

Before making your first trade, take time to learn the fundamentals of the stock market. You can explore AZEE Securities’ Knowledge Centre for Non-Resident Pakistanis for helpful guides, definitions, and investment tutorials.

If you’re looking for educational material in native languages, you may find useful documents such as:

• What is Roshan Digital Account in Stock Market in Urdu
• What is Roshan Digital Account in Stock Market App

Why Choose AZEE Securities?

AZEE Securities is a registered broker with PSX and SECP , offering digital trading platforms, real-time market access, and investor support. As your capital market partner, we provide:

• Seamless onboarding for NRPs via RDA
• Fast execution and transparent pricing
• Expert market research and trading tools
• Responsive customer service, available via phone and email

Quick Recap:

• Visit a designated bank portal to apply for your RDA.
• Submit your documents online—no branch visit required.
• Choose ‘Investment in Stock Market’ from the RDA dashboard.
• Consent and select a broker like AZEE Securities.
• Start trading after CDC verification and fund transfer.

Get Started with Azee Securities

Ready to start your investment journey with Azee Securities? Open a Stock Trading Account and gain access to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). Let Azee Securities help you make informed decisions. Our expert advisors, advanced trading platform, and real-time market data ensure you stay ahead of the curve.

Azee Securities Private Limited
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