Overseas Pakistanis sent $10.9 billion home in July-September - where it came from and how to send money safely

Pakistanis working abroad sent home $10.875 billion in July to September 2026, the first quarter of fiscal year 2027. That is 14% more than the $9.535 billion sent in the same three months last year, according to State Bank of Pakistan figures reported by ARY News.

In September alone, remittances were $3.588 billion, up 12.7% from September 2025 but 1.9% lower than August.

Where the money came from

September figures are from ARY News; quarterly country figures are from Minute Mirror, both citing the SBP. The UK showed the fastest growth among the major sources.

Why it matters at home

Remittances are one of Pakistan's biggest sources of dollars, larger than most export sectors. Steady inflows help the rupee and the country's foreign exchange reserves, which recently reached a record level. For families, it is often the money that pays school fees, rent and bills.

Sending money home: a safe checklist

• Use a bank or a licensed money transfer company. Money sent through official channels is counted by the SBP and is traceable if something goes wrong.
• Avoid hundi and hawala. Informal transfers are illegal, have no protection if the money disappears, and can create problems for both sender and receiver.
• Compare the total cost, not just the fee. Check the exchange rate you get as well as any transfer fee. A "zero fee" offer with a poor rate can cost more.
• Double-check the receiver's details. Use the exact name as on the CNIC and the correct IBAN. Most transfer mistakes come from a wrong digit.
• Keep the receipt and tracking number until your family confirms the money has arrived.
• Beware of scam calls and messages that claim your transfer is "stuck" and ask for a fee or a code. Banks do not ask for your PIN or OTP.

Exact fees and offers change often, so check them directly with your bank or transfer service before you send.