State Bank of Pakistan to Introduce New Currency Notes in 2025

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced its plan to release newly designed currency notes in all denominations—Rs. 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000. This rollout is expected to begin in the second half of 2025, as part of efforts to modernize Pakistan’s currency system and curb counterfeiting.

“The new notes will probably be released after July 2025, but this will only happen once the government gives the final approval.” Once approved, the SBP will distribute the new notes gradually to ensure a smooth transition for banks and the public.

“No, the new notes will come out in steps, not all together. This way, the process will be smooth and will not cause problems for people or banks.” This phased release will help avoid disruptions and confusion.

In terms of usability, “The old notes will still be usable and valid for five years after the new notes are released. So, people don’t need to hurry to exchange their old notes.” Both old and new notes will coexist for an extended period.

The upcoming notes will feature enhanced security features like holograms, color-shifting threads, and UV-visible elements. “The new notes will have many new safety features to stop fake notes.”

The note designs were selected from a national competition held in 2024, highlighting the country’s cultural heritage and reviewed by international experts. Despite rumors, “The Rs. 5000 note will not be removed. It will stay but will have a new design with better security.”

Additionally, SBP plans to test polymer banknotes—a plastic-based currency—later in 2025. “The State Bank will also try one type of note made from plastic, called polymer, by the end of 2025.”

To support the new rollout, Security Papers Limited is installing modern printing machines to improve note quality and durability. This initiative also aims to fight counterfeiting and maintain economic stability. “From the end of 2025, people will start seeing new notes in banks and ATMs.”