Zindigi Launches Overseas Accounts, Allowing Pakistanis Abroad to Bank Without a Local SIM

The digital accounts let eligible overseas Pakistanis open an account with an IBAN through international WhatsApp numbers, without visiting a bank branch.

Zindigi, powered by JS Bank, has launched Overseas Accounts to help Pakistanis living abroad open and manage bank accounts in Pakistan without requiring a Pakistani mobile number or visiting a bank branch.

The new facility allows eligible overseas customers to complete the account-opening process digitally through the Zindigi App using their existing international WhatsApp numbers.

Unlike a conventional digital wallet, the service provides customers with a bank account carrying an International Bank Account Number (IBAN), enabling them to manage their financial commitments in Pakistan while living overseas.

Overseas Pakistanis Can Manage Finances Remotely

The accounts are designed to help overseas Pakistanis stay connected to their financial responsibilities at home.

Through the Zindigi App, customers can support family members, pay utility bills, manage household expenses and make local transfers without needing to visit a physical branch.

The facility aims to remove some of the traditional barriers faced by Pakistanis abroad when accessing banking services in their home country.

Who Can Open a Zindigi Overseas Account?

The digital onboarding service is available to eligible overseas Pakistanis holding any of the following identification documents:

• Pakistan Origin Card (POC)
• National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP)
• Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC)

Customers can select between two account types based on their financial requirements and applicable regulatory conditions:

• Non-Resident Account Repatriable (NRAR): For customers seeking an account with repatriation facilities, subject to applicable rules.
• Non-Resident Account Non-Repatriable (NRAN): For customers whose account funds are subject to non-repatriation conditions.

Zindigi Says Launch Supports Borderless Banking

Commenting on the launch, Noman Azhar, Co-Founder and Chief Officer of Zindigi by JS Bank, said the initiative supports the company’s vision of making banking simpler and more accessible for Pakistanis worldwide.

He said geographical boundaries should not prevent overseas Pakistanis from accessing financial services in Pakistan.

Azhar added that allowing customers to open and manage accounts through international mobile numbers would help millions of Pakistanis maintain financial connections with their home country.

The launch is part of Zindigi’s broader digital banking strategy, which focuses on simplifying access to financial services and reducing reliance on traditional banking processes.