How Overseas Pakistanis Can Invest in Pakistan

Over 9 million Pakistanis live and work abroad. Many of them are looking for reliable, secure, and profitable ways to invest their money back home. Whether you live in the Middle East, Europe, or North America, there are plenty of options for you to build wealth in Pakistan.
1. Open a Roshan Digital Account (RDA)
This is the first and easiest step to start investing in Pakistan from abroad. Roshan Digital Accounts, launched by the State Bank of Pakistan, offer NRPs (Non-Resident Pakistanis) access to local financial products, including stock trading, government bonds, and bill payments. With your RDA, you can easily manage investments, savings, and transactions in both PKR and foreign currencies.
2. Invest in Real Estate
Pakistan's real estate sector has always been a favorite among overseas investors. From buying residential plots to investing in high-rise apartments or commercial outlets, cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad offer a range of options. With the introduction of REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts), you can now invest even without owning property directly.
3. Buy Pakistani Stocks and Bonds
Through your RDA-linked brokerage account, you can invest in the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). Choose from blue-chip companies, mutual funds, or government-issued bonds. These offer attractive returns, especially for long-term investors.
4. Save in Naya Pakistan Certificates (NPCs)
These are high-yield investment instruments available in multiple currencies (PKR, USD, GBP, and EUR). Backed by the government, they offer fixed returns and are considered one of the safest ways to grow your money. Interest is paid regularly, and investments can range from short to long term.
5. Start a Business in Pakistan
If you're thinking of starting a small business, this is a great time to tap into Pakistan’s growing digital and e-commerce economy. Popular fields include food, clothing brands, logistics, and tech-based services. Government initiatives like the Startup Pakistan Program are also providing support to overseas entrepreneurs.
6. Invest in Agriculture and Farming
Agriculture is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. Opportunities include leasing farmland, setting up cold storage facilities, or exporting crops. Several agri-tech startups are making this process easier for overseas Pakistanis to remotely invest and monitor returns.
7. Gold and Commodity Investment
Gold remains a popular hedge against inflation. Now you can even invest in digital gold or gold-based mutual funds through RDAs or other apps available in Pakistan. Commodities such as wheat and sugar also offer profitable short-term trading options.
Important Considerations
- Do your research: Make informed decisions and avoid scams by only using licensed brokers and banks.
- Use government portals: Like Roshan Digital or SECP-registered platforms.
- Diversify: Never invest all your money in one asset. Spread it across property, stocks, NPCs, and business.
- Consult financial advisors: Especially for taxation, repatriation, and inheritance laws in Pakistan.
Conclusion
Pakistan offers numerous investment opportunities for its overseas citizens. With the right guidance, planning, and tools like Roshan Digital Accounts, you can grow your wealth, support your country’s economy, and secure your financial future. Whether you're planning to retire in Pakistan or just want your money to work harder, now is the time to explore these options.
ConversionConversion EmoticonEmoticon