New Currency Notes in Pakistan 2026: Latest Official Update

Published On: January 22, 2026

Pakistan’s long-awaited new currency notes are moving closer to reality, with preparations now complete and only final cabinet approval pending.

According to official sources, the State Bank of Pakistan has finalized all groundwork related to the redesign, security features, and production planning of the new banknotes. Once federal approval is granted, the printing and circulation process will begin without delay.

Current Status of New Currency Notes

SBP officials have confirmed that the project has reached its final approval stage. The only remaining step is formal clearance from the federal cabinet. After approval, Pakistan’s currency system will begin transitioning toward a more secure and modern design.

This initiative is part of SBP’s long-term financial modernization strategy, aimed at improving trust and security in physical currency.

Why Pakistan Is Introducing New Currency Notes

The decision to redesign currency notes has been under discussion for several years. The main objectives include:

Curbing the rise of counterfeit currency
Introducing stronger and modern security features
Improving durability and lifespan of banknotes
Aligning Pakistan’s currency with international standards

SBP aims to ensure safer cash transactions while strengthening public confidence in the Pakistani Rupee.

Printing Process: What’s Ready

The Pakistan Security Printing Corporation has confirmed that:

Preparatory work is complete
Printing machinery and systems are ready
Final designs will be printed immediately after approval

Officials estimate that printing will take around two months after the green signal.

Expected Timeline for Circulation

Based on current developments, the most realistic timeline suggests:

Cabinet approval: Early to mid-2026
Printing phase: Within weeks of approval
Printing duration: Around 2 months
Public circulation: Late 2026

SBP will announce the official rollout schedule once approval is granted.

Will All Denominations Be Released Together?

This decision has not yet been finalized. Authorities are reviewing two options:

Phased release, starting with select denominations
Simultaneous nationwide release of all notes

Consultations between SBP and PSPC are ongoing, and a final decision will be shared publicly.

Security Features in the New Notes

Although exact designs remain confidential, the new currency is expected to include:

Advanced watermarks
Enhanced security threads
Micro-printing technology
Improved paper quality
Longer-lasting materials

These upgrades will make counterfeiting significantly more difficult.

What This Means for the Public

There is no cause for concern regarding existing currency.

Old Pakistani rupee notes will remain legal tender
There will be no sudden ban or deadline
Transition will be gradual and well-communicated
Banks will guide the exchange process

Daily transactions will continue normally.

Impact on Banks, ATMs, and Businesses

Preparations are already underway, including:

ATM recalibration
Cash-handling system updates
Staff training at banks
Public awareness campaigns

SBP has emphasized that the transition will be smooth and disruption-free.

SBP’s Broader Vision

The currency redesign supports wider reforms aimed at:

Strengthening financial credibility
Reducing illegal cash circulation
Enhancing the global image of PKR
Supporting Pakistan’s evolving financial ecosystem

Final Word

The introduction of new currency notes in Pakistan in 2026 marks a major milestone. With groundwork complete and approval pending, Pakistan is closer than ever to launching a more secure, durable, and modern currency system.

Once approved, the transition will unfold gradually — without invalidating existing notes — ensuring stability and confidence for the public.