SBP simplifies inheritance remittance rules

May 13, 2026 (MLN): The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has updated its foreign exchange regulations to make it easier for non-resident legal heirs to transfer inherited assets abroad.

The key change grants official recognition to Succession Certificates and Letters of Administration issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) alongside court-issued documents as valid proof for remitting funds out of Pakistan.

The circular, addressed to Presidents and Chief Executives of all Authorised Dealers (ADs) in Foreign Exchange, amends Para 3 of Chapter 16 of the Foreign Exchange Manual.

The revision comes as part of efforts to facilitate non-resident beneficiaries who inherit assets from the estates of deceased persons based in Pakistan.

Under the revised rules, applications for remittance of legacies and other estate distributions to beneficiaries residing outside Pakistan must be referred to the State Bank and accompanied by a set of specified documents.

These include the name, nationality, and place of residence of the deceased at the time of death, along with the period of Pakistani residence where applicable.

Applicants must also provide either a copy of relevant clauses from a probated Will, or  in cases of intestate death a Letter of Administration or Succession Certificate issued by NADRA or a court, duly authenticated by the issuing authority, a Notary Public, Judge, or Magistrate, whether in Pakistan or the country where the deceased resided.

A full statement of the deceased's assets in Pakistan is also required.

The SBP further clarified that any amounts not approved for remittance will be credited to a blocked account in the name of the executor or administrator at a Pakistani bank.

Authorised Dealers have been directed to ensure strict and meticulous compliance with the revised instructions.

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