State Bank of Pakistan New Currency Notes 2026
Pakistan is preparing for an important update in its currency system. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has finalized redesigned banknotes that will gradually replace the current series. These new notes are designed to improve security, durability, and public confidence. Below is a clear and updated explanation of what is happening and what citizens need to know.
What Is the Latest Development?
The SBP has completed the design phase of the new banknotes and submitted them to the federal cabinet for final approval. Once approval is granted, printing will officially begin.
However, printing and circulation will not happen overnight. The process requires planning, testing, and strict quality checks before the notes are released to banks and the public.
Why Is Pakistan Redesigning Its Currency?
There are several important reasons behind this decision:
1. Stronger Protection Against Counterfeit Money
The main objective is to reduce fake currency by adding advanced security elements that are difficult to duplicate.
2. Modern and International Standards
The new series is expected to align with global currency design standards, improving both security and appearance.
3. Better Durability
Updated printing materials and techniques will likely make the notes more long-lasting in circulation.
4. Increased Public Trust
A modern currency system strengthens confidence in the country’s financial structure.
Experts, including professional designers, have reportedly contributed to creating secure and visually strong designs for the upcoming notes.
Which Currency Notes Will Change First?
In the first phase, the government has approved redesigning four major denominations:
- Rs. 100
- Rs. 500
- Rs. 1,000
- Rs. 5,000
These notes will be printed with enhanced security features. Other denominations and coins may be updated later but are not included in the initial rollout.
Will Old Currency Notes Become Invalid?
No.
There is no demonetization plan. Existing currency notes will remain legal and valid for transactions even after the new notes enter circulation.
Both old and new notes will circulate together for a long period. Citizens will not be required to immediately exchange their current notes.
This phased transition ensures there is no confusion or disruption in daily financial activities.
Will the New Notes Be Available Before Eid 2026?
Many people expected the new notes to be available before Eid-ul-Fitr 2026. However, according to official updates, this will not happen.
Printing cannot begin until the federal cabinet grants formal approval. Until then, the SBP will continue supplying fresh bundles of existing notes to commercial banks, especially before festive occasions.
How Will Printing and Distribution Take Place?
After approval:
- Printing will begin through authorized facilities, including the Pakistan Security Printing Corporation (PSPC).
- Each printing batch may take around two months, depending on capacity.
- After quality checks, the SBP will distribute new notes to commercial banks.
- Banks will gradually release them to the public.
This controlled rollout ensures stability in cash flow across the country.
Expected Security Features
While complete technical details have not been publicly disclosed, the new notes are expected to include:
- Clear watermarks
- Embedded security threads
- Color-shifting ink
- Micro-text printing
- Improved serial number tracking
These features will make counterfeiting significantly more difficult and help people easily identify genuine notes.
What Should Citizens Do?
For now, no action is required.
- Current currency notes remain fully valid.
- There is no exchange deadline.
- No emergency measures are being introduced.
Citizens are advised to ignore rumors circulating on social media and rely only on official statements from the State Bank of Pakistan.
Final Overview
Pakistan is moving toward a more secure and modern currency system. The new banknote designs have been completed and are awaiting final approval. Once cleared, printing will begin for four major denominations, followed by gradual distribution.
Old notes will remain valid, and the transition will happen smoothly over time. The new currency series reflects Pakistan’s long-term effort to improve financial security, prevent counterfeiting, and strengthen trust in the banking system.
