For decades, Overseas Pakistanis (Non-Resident Pakistanis or NRPs) faced massive hurdles when trying to invest back home. Opening a brokerage account on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) required physical presence, attested documents from embassies, and navigating a labyrinth of red tape.
That all changed with the launch of the Roshan Digital Account (RDA).
Today, if you live abroad, you can open a fully functional Pakistani bank account and a PSX brokerage account entirely online within 48 hours. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get started in 2026.
What is a Roshan Digital Account (RDA)?
The Roshan Digital Account is an initiative by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to integrate the Pakistani diaspora into the country's banking and investment ecosystem.
Through an RDA, you can:
- Transfer funds instantly to Pakistan.
- Invest in Naya Pakistan Certificates (government bonds).
- Invest directly in the PSX through Roshan Equity Investment.
- Repatriate your funds (send your money back abroad) seamlessly without any SBP approvals.
Step 1: Choose a Participating Bank
Almost all major commercial banks in Pakistan offer RDA services. The most popular choices for overseas investors include:
- Meezan Bank (Best for Shariah-compliant investing)
- HBL (Habib Bank Limited)
- UBL (United Bank Limited)
- Bank Alfalah
Visit the official RDA portal of your chosen bank. You will not need to visit a branch; the entire process is digital.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Before starting the application, have digital copies (photos or PDFs) of the following ready:
- Valid CNIC / NICOP / POC.
- Original Pakistani Passport (first two pages) and the passport of your country of residence (if applicable).
- Proof of NRP Status (e.g., a copy of your visa, residence permit, or foreign passport).
- Proof of Profession and Source of Income (e.g., an employment letter, recent salary slip, or tax return).
- A live photo (taken during the application process).
Step 3: Apply Online and Select "Roshan Equity"
Fill out the online application. When you reach the section asking which services you want to activate, make sure you explicitly check the box for Roshan Equity Investment.
By checking this box, the bank will automatically forward your details to the Central Depository Company (CDC) and a partner brokerage house to open your stock trading account simultaneously.
Step 4: Choose Your Broker
Your bank will give you a list of partner brokerage firms (such as Topline Securities, AKD Securities, or Foundation Securities). Select one. Your bank acts as the custodian of your funds, while the broker executes your trades on the PSX.
Step 5: Fund Your Account and Start Trading
Once your account is approved (usually within 48 hours), you will receive an IBAN.
- Transfer funds from your foreign bank account directly to your RDA.
- Log into your bank's RDA portal and allocate a specific amount to your "Roshan Equity" account.
- You will receive login credentials from your chosen broker. Download their app, log in, and buy your first share!
The Importance of Tracking Your PSX Portfolio
Once you start buying stocks, tracking your exact performance across different currencies and time zones can get confusing. You want to know exactly how your Pakistani portfolio is performing relative to your investment goals.
Don't rely on basic broker apps. Connect your trades to Zarify. With Zarify's Zero-Touch email import, every time your broker sends you a trade confirmation, Zarify automatically logs it. You can see your live XIRR, track your dividends, and monitor your PSX wealth effortlessly from anywhere in the world.