ACE Money Transfer
ACE Money Transfer
12 Oct 2026
If you're a Pakistani living abroad and want to bank, invest, and manage finances in Pakistan, the HBL Roshan Digital Account is an option available under the State Bank of Pakistan’s RDA framework. This guide walks you through everything-from who can open it, to how to fund it through Ace Money Transfer, to the investment options waiting on the other side.
An HBL Roshan Digital Account allows eligible non-resident Pakistanis to open and operate a bank account remotely through digital channels, without visiting a bank branch or embassy.
Here's what you need to know at a glance:
The Roshan Digital Account is a State Bank of Pakistan initiative launched in September 2020. Its purpose is to connect overseas Pakistanis with Pakistan's banking, investment, and payment infrastructure-entirely online, from anywhere in the world.
HBL's version, called the eBanc Roshan Digital Account, is the bank's dedicated offering under this program. The account supports both foreign currency and Pak Rupee accounts, and customers can choose between conventional and Islamic banking options.
The account is fully digital. There is no branch visit required, no courier of documents, and no embassy appointment. Everything from application to approval happens online from your country of residence.
Eligible account holders include non-resident Pakistanis holding a valid CNIC or NICOP, Pakistan Origin Card (POC) holders, and resident Pakistanis who have declared foreign assets in their latest tax or wealth return.
The Roshan Digital Account allows remote account opening for non-residents, giving them 24/7 access to account creation, fast remittance channels, investment products like Naya Pakistan Certificates, and-critically-full repatriation of funds and profits without restriction.
Since its launch, the Roshan Digital Account has facilitated $3 billion in remittances, and cumulative inflows across participating banks reached approximately US $12.75 billion by April 2026 with nearly one million accounts opened. Overseas Pakistanis can also open foreign currency accounts remotely (Exchange rates fluctuate and the rate you receive may differ from any rates quoted. Always check the live rate at acemoneytransfer.com before sending), choosing from USD, GBP, EUR, SAR, AED, CAD, and other major currencies.
Opening an HBL Roshan Digital Account is a straightforward online journey. If your documents are ready and scanned, the application itself takes roughly 10–30 minutes. The entire onboarding process is digital and typically takes around 48 hours for approval.
Here's how the process works, step by step:
Check your eligibility first. You'll need a valid CNIC or NICOP, proof that you're an overseas Pakistani or POC holder, a valid foreign residential address, and access to a personal email and mobile number. These are non-negotiable prerequisites.
Visit the official HBL Roshan Digital portal. Navigate to HBL's website and select the "Roshan Digital Account" or "Open Digital Account" option specifically labeled for non-resident Pakistanis. Don't confuse this with HBL's standard domestic account opening flow.
Fill in the online application form. The form covers personal information (name, date of birth, nationality), your foreign residential address, contact details, tax residency information, and a declaration of source of funds. Take your time here-any error in your details can delay verification.
Upload required documents. Common documents required to open an RDA include CNIC, passport, and proof of non-resident status. Specifically, you'll need:
CNIC or NICOP - both sides, clear scan or photo
Passport - the information page (first two pages)
Proof of overseas address - a recent utility bill or bank statement, generally no older than three months
A live selfie for biometric-style identity verification
Select your account type. During the application, you choose whether you want a PKR account, a foreign currency account (USD, GBP, EUR, etc.), or both. You also pick between HBL's conventional and Islamic/Shariah-compliant Roshan Digital options.
Wait for KYC and compliance checks. HBL performs electronic Know Your Customer verification and compliance screening. If everything is in order, HBL states that the account can be opened within 48 hours. Times may vary. If verification is delayed, check your email (including spam folders) for requests from HBL, and be ready to re-upload clearer documents if asked.
Receive your account details. Once approved, HBL shares your digital account details-IBAN, branch code, and SWIFT code-via secure email and SMS. You can start sending funds immediately.
On security: the portal uses encryption and two-factor authentication. Never share OTPs or passwords with anyone, including people who claim to represent the bank.
A frequent comment from new applicants is surprise at how smooth the process is-no visiting a branch, no embassy stamps, no waiting weeks. HBL occasionally hosts webinars to walk prospective customers through the opening process; check for a webinar ID or registration link on their RDA page if you'd prefer a guided walkthrough.
Once your digital account is active, you need a fast and affordable way to send money into it. This is where Ace Money Transfer comes in-an online remittance platform that lets you send international remittances directly into HBL accounts from abroad.
Here's how the process works:
Register or log in. Create an account on Ace Money Transfer using your email, Google, or Apple ID. If you already have an account, simply log in.
Choose your destination. Select your sending country and choose "Pakistan" as the destination country.
Select bank deposit as payout method. For funding your HBL Roshan Digital Account, "Bank Deposit" is the ideal option. This sends the money directly to HBL.
Enter recipient details. Input the HBL Roshan Digital Account holder's full name (as it appears on the account), HBL account number or IBAN, and the bank's details. Double-check every digit-an error in the IBAN is the most common reason for transfer delays.
Pick your payment method. Ace Money Transfer supports debit card, credit card, and online bank transfer. Choose whichever suits you, add a payment reason (e.g., family support, investment, personal savings), and review all details before clicking "Pay Now."
Track your transfer. After confirmation, Ace Money Transfer provides a reference tracking number. Use it to monitor your remittance in real-time until funds are credited to your Roshan Digital Account.
While Ace Money Transfer also offers cash pickup and mobile wallet payouts in Pakistan, bank deposit is the right choice when your goal is funding an HBL Roshan Digital Account for banking and investment purposes.
Keep your transaction receipts. They're useful for your personal records, tax documentation in your country of residence, and any future correspondence with HBL.
So your account is funded. What can you actually do with it? This section breaks down the core features, financial benefits, and investment avenues available through HBL Roshan Digital.
Core Banking Features
Users can access services like local fund transfers and bill payments through mobile banking and debit cards. HBL's mobile app lets you manage your account remotely-pay utility bills in Pakistan, transfer funds to family members' local accounts, and request virtual or physical debit cards (where applicable for NRPs). Many variants of the account feature a zero minimum balance requirement, so you're not penalized for keeping a low balance.
Repatriation Without Barriers
One of the most significant advantages of the Roshan Digital Account system is that funds in the account can be repatriated without regulatory hurdles. Your principal, profit, and investment sale proceeds can all be moved back abroad in foreign currency without needing separate State Bank approval. This is a major differentiator from standard Pakistani bank accounts.
Investment in Naya Pakistan Certificates
Account holders can invest in government-backed instruments like Naya Pakistan Certificates (NPCs). These sovereign securities come in PKR and foreign currency with tenors of 3, 6, and 12 months, as well as 3-year and 5-year options. As a reference point, rates as of March 2026 stood at approximately 6.75% for a USD 3-month NPC and 10.75%–11.50% for PKR certificates at various tenors. A 10% withholding tax is deducted at source on profits, and for non-resident individuals, this serves as a full and final tax discharge-no separate Pakistani tax filing needed for NPC income.
Stock Market Access
Investors can directly trade in Pakistan's stock exchanges through a linked sub-account. Through HBL's Roshan Equity feature, you select a brokerage partner, link your CDC (Central Depository Company) account, and fund trades directly from your Roshan Digital Account. This opens the door to Pakistan's equity markets without needing a physical presence.
Mutual Funds
The Roshan Digital Account enables investment in mutual funds, including those managed by HBL Asset Management. This provides a diversified, professionally managed investment option for those who prefer not to pick individual stocks.
Shariah-Compliant Options
RDA offers Shariah-compliant banking and investment options. HBL's Islamic Roshan Digital Account operates on Shariah principles, and Islamic Naya Pakistan Certificates (INPCs) are available for customers who prefer riba-free banking and investing.
Real Estate and Lifestyle Products
Overseas Pakistanis can purchase real estate properties directly using funds from their RDA-notably through initiatives like Roshan Apna Ghar (home purchase and construction finance) and Roshan Apni Car (vehicle financing for family in Pakistan). Insurance products are also available through some variants.
Better Returns for Expatriates
RDA provides better investment returns for expatriates than locals on certain instruments, particularly NPCs, which were specifically designed with competitive rates to attract diaspora investment and strengthen Pakistan's economy.
By April 2026, monthly RDA inflows across all banks had reached US $321 million, and $3 billion has been remitted through Roshan Digital Account since launch-clear evidence that the Pakistani diaspora sees real value in this initiative.
Among the banks participating in the Roshan Digital program, HBL stands out for several concrete reasons that go beyond marketing.
Network and Brand Strength
HBL operates one of the largest branch networks in Pakistan and was reportedly the first bank to cross 100,000 RDA accounts, capturing roughly 20% market share at various points. For Pakistanis abroad, this means your account is backed by an institution with deep domestic reach and decades of operational history.
Practical Convenience for Daily Life
Consider the ease of managing family expenses from abroad. Instead of informal channels or asking relatives to handle payments, you can pay school fees, utility bills, and medical expenses directly from your HBL Roshan Digital Account. The funds are received quickly, the transactions are documented, and you retain full control.
The Combination That Matters
The decision factors for most overseas Pakistanis come down to three things: security (State Bank oversight and strong KYC), convenience (fully online onboarding, no branch or embassy visit needed), and returns (NPCs, mutual funds, term deposits with competitive yields). HBL delivers on all three.
Real-Life Scenarios
Here's how this plays out in practice:
A Pakistani engineer in the UK uses Ace Money Transfer monthly to send £500 into his HBL Roshan Digital Account. He splits the funds: half goes to his parents' local account for household expenses, and half is invested in 12-month Naya Pakistan Certificates earning a competitive PKR return.
A healthcare worker in Saudi Arabia opened a USD foreign currency account through HBL's Roshan Digital portal. She keeps her savings in USD to avoid currency depreciation risk and uses the Roshan Equity feature to trade on the Pakistan Stock Exchange during her off-hours.
A Canadian businesswoman of Pakistani origin holds a POC card and uses her HBL Roshan Digital Account to explore real estate investment in Pakistan through Roshan Apna Ghar, funding the down payment directly from her RDA.
These aren't hypothetical-they reflect the kind of structured, opportunity-driven financial management that the Roshan Digital Account was designed to enable.
These are the questions overseas Pakistanis most frequently ask about the HBL Roshan Digital Account. If your question isn't covered, HBL's dedicated RDA support team and the State Bank of Pakistan's official RDA page are the best up-to-date sources.
Who can open an HBL Roshan Digital Account?
Non-resident Pakistanis holding a valid CNIC or NICOP, Pakistan Origin Card holders, and qualifying resident Pakistanis who have declared foreign assets in their latest tax return. "Non-resident" is defined under Pakistan's Income Tax Ordinance-generally, not being present in Pakistan for 183 or more days in a tax year.
How long does account opening take, and what if verification is delayed?
If documents are complete and clear, approval typically comes within 48 hours. If you haven't received confirmation by that date, check your email (including spam and promotions folders) for any requests from HBL. You may need to re-upload documents with better scan quality. You can also reach HBL's RDA support via phone or their digital portal's chat feature.
Are joint Roshan Digital Accounts allowed?
HBL's Islamic Roshan Digital Account currently operates on a "singly" basis, meaning it's held by one individual. For conventional accounts, joint account eligibility may vary-contact HBL directly for the latest policy, as rules around joint NRP accounts have evolved over time.
What is the tax treatment on profits from Roshan Digital investments?
Profits from NPCs and INPCs are subject to a 10% withholding tax deducted at source. For non-resident individuals, this withholding serves as full and final tax discharge, meaning you generally don't need to file a separate tax return in Pakistan solely for this income. RDA NPCs are also exempt from compulsory Zakat deductions. Always consult a tax advisor familiar with both Pakistani and your country-of-residence tax rules.
Can I send my funds back abroad at any time?
Yes. Capital, profits, and investment proceeds can be repatriated in foreign currency at any time through HBL's digital channels without needing separate State Bank approval. This is one of the foundational guarantees of the Roshan Digital Account system under the government's regulatory framework.
What's the difference between a standard overseas remittance and using Roshan Digital Account plus Ace Money Transfer?
A standard remittance sends money to a recipient's local bank account-useful, but it doesn't give you control over how the money is used or invested. With an HBL Roshan Digital Account, the funds land in your own regulated Pakistani account. You decide whether to transfer to family, invest in NPCs, trade stocks, or save in foreign currency. Using Ace Money Transfer as your remittance channel adds speed, real-time tracking, and competitive transfer costs to that equation. It's the difference between sending money and managing money.
Where can I find the latest policy updates?
Regulations, investment rates, product offerings, and documentation requirements can change. For the most current insights, refer to HBL's official RDA page and the State Bank of Pakistan's Roshan Digital Account portal. HBL also runs periodic webinars covering new features and policy changes-keep an eye out for announcements and share relevant sessions with family or friends who might benefit from the same opportunity.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, regulatory, tax, business, or financial advice. While reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all facts, figures, and data are accurate and valid as of the date of publication, no warranty or guarantee is given as to the ongoing completeness, accuracy, or currency of the information.
The content is based on information available at the time of publication. Regulations, government policies, market conditions, and service offerings may change over time and vary across jurisdictions and providers. As a result, some information may no longer be current or applicable. Readers should independently verify all information and consult qualified professional advisors before making any financial, legal, or business decisions.
