ISLAMABAD: The inflow of overseas workers’ remittances to Pakistan reached $3.6 billion in December 2025, according to data released by the State Bank of Pakistan on Friday.
The figure reflects a year-on-year increase of nearly 16.5 per cent compared with $3.1 billion recorded in December last year. On a monthly basis, the remittances also rose by 13 per cent from $3.2 billion in November.
During the first half of the current fiscal year, remittance inflows totalled $19.7 billion, up from $17.8 billion in the same period last year. This marks an increase of around 11 per cent and underscores the growing role of overseas Pakistanis in supporting the country’s economy.
Remittances continue to play a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s external account, boosting economic activity, and supplementing household incomes. Meanwhile, the government has focused on promoting inflows through formal channels by offering incentives and expanding access to regulated financial services.
Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the UK remain leading sources
In August, the central bank highlighted the impact of the Pakistan Remittance Initiative, launched in 2009 to promote formal remittance channels. Since then, the number of financial institutions on the PRI network has increased from about 25 to more than 50, including banks, microfinance institutions and exchange companies. In addition, international partner entities have expanded sharply to nearly 400.
A country-wise breakdown shows that Saudi Arabia remained the largest source of remittances in December. Overseas Pakistanis in the kingdom sent $813 million, reflecting a 6 per cent annual increase and an 8 per cent rise from November. Inflows from the UAE climbed 15 per cent year-on-year to $726 million.
Remittances from the UK stood at $560 million, rising 16 per cent from November and 28 per cent compared with December last year. Pakistani workers in the United States sent $302 million, showing a slight annual decline but a 9 per cent monthly increase. Meanwhile, inflows from European Union countries reached $499 million, recording a strong 39 per cent year-on-year rise.
