Send money from the UK to Pakistan
By RemitInsights Editorial. Updated October 2026. We do not move money; we explain the options.
The UK is one of the biggest sources of remittances for Pakistan. State Bank of Pakistan figures reported by ARY News show about $532 million arriving from the UK in February 2026 alone.
Quick summary
- Judge by what arrives. Compare how much your recipient receives in PKR, not the advertised fee.
- The exchange rate is often the biggest cost. A "no fee" transfer can still cost more than one with a small fee.
- Use a regulated provider. In the UK, money transfer firms must be authorised or registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Check the FCA Register first.
- Match the payout to your recipient. The best method depends on whether they use a bank, a wallet or cash.
Payout options in Pakistan
- Bank account deposit. Pakistan's instant payment system, Raast, built under the State Bank of Pakistan, can credit accounts within seconds when your provider connects to it.
- Mobile wallet. Some providers pay into wallets such as JazzCash or Easypaisa. Check which wallets are supported.
- Cash pickup. Collected at partner branches with valid ID. It reaches people without bank accounts, but fees and rates may be less favourable.
The State Bank of Pakistan promotes formal channels and the Roshan Digital Account programme for non-resident Pakistanis. If you hold or plan to open such an account, ask your bank how it treats incoming transfers.
How to check any quote in three steps
- Get quotes from at least three regulated providers for the same amount at the same time.
- Enter each provider's fee and exchange rate in the calculator above. It compares them with the mid-market rate and shows the total cost as a percentage.
- Choose the one that delivers the most PKR by the method you need. Learn why the mid-market rate matters.
What you need to send from the UK
- Photo ID such as a passport or driving licence. Providers may also ask for proof of address.
- Your recipient's full name exactly as on their ID, and their bank, wallet or pickup details.
- Possible extra checks for larger amounts, such as the source of your funds. Providers must follow anti-money-laundering rules.
Each provider sets its own sending limits. Money held by authorised payment firms is safeguarded, but unlike bank deposits it is not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. If something goes wrong, complain to the provider first, then you may be able to go to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Avoid these mistakes and scams
- Common here: Informal hundi or hawala networks. They may look cheaper, but you have no protection if money goes missing.
- Rates that change at checkout. Check the final screen before you confirm.
- Wrong recipient details. Double-check names, account and wallet numbers. Errors can delay or lose funds.
- Pressure to send urgently to someone you have not verified, or to pay "fees" before receiving a prize or loan.
- Fake apps and websites. Use official app stores and never share one-time passcodes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to send money from the UK to Pakistan?
It changes daily. The cheapest option is the one that delivers the most PKR for your amount, so compare the total using the calculator.
How long does a transfer take?
Bank deposits can arrive within minutes through Raast, otherwise within one or two working days. Cash pickup is often same-day.
Is there a limit on how much I can send?
Providers set their own limits, and larger amounts may need extra documents. Check each provider's terms and the receiving country's rules.
Is it safe to send money online?
Yes, if you use a regulated provider, an official app, and verify your recipient's details.
Other routes
Sources
- State Bank of Pakistan, the receiving-country regulator
- FCA Register and Financial Conduct Authority, the UK regulator
General information only. We are not connected to any provider, and rules, rates and fees change, so contact the provider directly for its actual rates, fees and terms before you send. Some links on this site may be affiliate links; see our Disclaimer.