State Bank of Pakistan’s New Currency Notes: Official Announcements for Every Citizen
In 2026, Pakistan is set to introduce redesigned banknotes, marking a major update in the country’s currency system. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has finalized the designs for the new notes and submitted them to the federal cabinet for approval. Once the cabinet gives the go-ahead, printing and distribution of these notes will begin. This article explains the changes in simple language, covering what is happening, why it matters, and how it will affect citizens.
What Is Happening with Pakistan’s Currency Notes?
The SBP has been working on a new series of banknotes with improved security features and modern designs. These notes are part of a broader effort to prevent counterfeiting, make money more durable, and improve public trust in the currency.
The central bank has completed the designs for the notes and is waiting for formal approval from the federal cabinet. After approval, printing will begin in a carefully controlled process to ensure quality and accuracy. The rollout will be gradual, so old and new notes will circulate together for a period.
Why Are New Currency Notes Being Introduced?
There are several reasons for introducing new designs:
- Stronger Security Against Fake Currency
The main goal is to reduce counterfeit notes. Advanced security elements such as watermarks, threads, and micro-text will make it harder to copy the notes. - Modern Appearance
The new notes will have an updated design, following international standards. They are expected to look professional, secure, and visually appealing. - Improved Durability
The notes will use better materials and printing techniques, making them last longer in circulation. - Public Confidence
Updated notes increase trust in Pakistan’s financial system and give citizens confidence in handling money.
Experts, including international designers, have helped create these notes, incorporating watermarks, security threads, color-changing inks, and unique serial numbers to ensure both safety and convenience.
Which Denominations Will Be Redesigned?
The first phase of the currency update will include four major denominations:
- Rs. 100
- Rs. 500
- Rs. 1,000
- Rs. 5,000
Lower denominations and coins may be redesigned later, but they are not part of the initial printing phase.
What Will Happen to Old Notes?
Existing notes will remain valid even after the new ones are released. The SBP plans a phased rollout, meaning old and new notes will circulate together for months. Citizens will not need to exchange their old notes immediately.
This approach is designed to avoid confusion or disruption in daily cash transactions. Banks, shops, and ATMs will accept both old and new notes during the transition.
Will New Notes Be Available for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026?
Many people hoped the new notes would be released before Eid-ul-Fitr 2026. However, the SBP has confirmed that the new notes will not be available before Eid. Printing cannot start until cabinet approval is granted, and the process is expected to take time.
Meanwhile, banks will continue to provide fresh bundles of the current notes, ensuring that citizens have clean and usable currency for festivals and daily transactions.
How Will New Notes Be Printed and Circulated?
Once approved, printing will be handled by the Pakistan Security Printing Corporation (PSPC) and other partners. The process involves:
- Printing batches of notes
- Conducting quality inspections
- Distributing the notes to commercial banks
The SBP will release the new notes in phases to ensure smooth circulation without affecting daily cash flow. Citizens will gradually see new notes at banks and ATMs as the process continues.
Expected Security Features
The new notes will include advanced features to make them safer:
- Watermarks with clear images
- Embedded security threads
- Color-changing ink that reacts when tilted
- Micro-text difficult to replicate
- Enhanced serial number tracking
These features make it easier to identify genuine currency and reduce the risk of counterfeit money.
What Citizens Should Know
For now, citizens do not need to take any special action. Existing notes remain fully valid. Key points to remember:
- No demonetization plan is in place.
- Old notes will be accepted alongside new notes.
- Avoid believing rumors on social media about sudden changes.
- Rely only on official SBP announcements for updates.
Final Summary
Pakistan is preparing a modernized currency system with redesigned notes for four key denominations. These notes feature enhanced security, a modern design, and improved durability.
- Old notes will remain valid during the phased rollout.
- New notes will not be available before Eid-ul-Fitr 2026.
- Printing and distribution are expected to continue gradually after cabinet approval.
This update is part of the SBP’s strategy to reduce counterfeit currency, strengthen trust in the financial system, and ensure safer cash transactions. Citizens should stay informed through official channels and continue using their current notes until the new series is fully introduced.
