Workers’ remittances recorded an annual increase of 11.3%, reaching USD 3.1 billion in September 2025 compared to USD 2.9 billion in the same month last year. On a monthly basis, remittances also grew by 1%, up from USD 3.1 billion in August 2025.
During the first three months of the fiscal year 2025–26, total remittances stood at USD 9.5 billion, compared to USD 8.8 billion during the same period of the previous fiscal year — reflecting an increase of 8.4%.
Remittances play a crucial role in supporting Pakistan’s external accounts, stimulating economic activity, and increasing disposable income for households that rely on this income source.
Last month, the State Bank highlighted that the Pakistan Remittance Initiative (PRI) has been actively promoting the use of formal channels for remittance transfers since its launch in 2009. Due to active engagement with financial institutions (FIs), the number of institutions in the PRI network has increased from around 25 in 2009 to over 50 by 2024. These institutions include conventional banks, Islamic banks, microfinance banks, and exchange companies (ECs).
Additionally, Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs) have also been allowed to receive remittances through banks. The number of international partner institutions has grown from about 45 in 2009 to nearly 400 at present.
Breakdown of Remittances — September 2025:
- Saudi Arabia: Pakistanis residing in Saudi Arabia sent the highest amount, USD 751 million, which is 2% higher month-on-month and 10% higher year-on-year, compared to USD 684 million in the same month last year.
- United Arab Emirates: Remittances rose 7% year-on-year, from USD 563 million to USD 677 million in September 2025.
- United Kingdom: Remittances reached USD 455 million, down 2% from USD 463 million in August 2025, but 7% higher on a yearly basis.
- United States: Remittances totaled USD 269 million, showing a 3% annual decline.
- European Union Countries: Remittances amounted to USD 424 million during September 2025.
