Please refer to BPRD Circular No. 09 dated June 20, 2011 on Branchless Banking Regulations for Financial Institutions (FIs).

2. State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has been promoting financial inclusion and access to financial services in the country by expanding outreach of banking services to the masses through innovative services and channels. In this regard, the SBP has launched National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS) of Pakistan which underscores the importance of use of alternate delivery channels for accelerating the pace of financial inclusion in the country.

3. The SBP, with the objective of expanding the outreach of branchless banking operations for achieving the national objectives set out in NFIS, has therefore revised the existing Branchless Banking Regulations (Revised version attached as Annexure “A”).

4. The revised Regulations shall be applicable on all Financial Institutions providing Branchless Banking services. Those FIs, which have already been allowed to offer branchless banking services, are advised to streamline their existing operations/processes where applicable; as per revised Regulations within six months of the issuance of this Circular and report compliance to SBP.

5. Please acknowledge receipt.

Annexure - A