Pakistan Approves New Currency Notes Redesign 2026 with Official Denominations and Release Timeline

Pakistan is set to introduce redesigned currency notes in 2026, with the federal cabinet officially approving key denominations and a release timeline. The initiative, led by Shehbaz Sharif, marks the most significant update to Pakistan’s currency in decades, aimed at improving security, modernizing design, and reducing counterfeiting. A special committee is overseeing the finalization of note designs, colors, and advanced security features.

The approved denominations for redesign are Rs. 100, Rs. 500, Rs. 1,000, and Rs. 5,000. The Rs. 5,000 note will continue in circulation, dispelling rumors about its discontinuation. Lower denominations like Rs. 10, 20, and 50 were considered in earlier design competitions but are not part of this approval phase. The redesign focuses on high-usage notes to ensure daily transactions are secure and reliable.

The primary reason for redesigning currency is to prevent counterfeit notes, which negatively impact the economy, erode trust, and cause losses for businesses. The State Bank of Pakistan aims to produce notes that meet international standards, with key objectives including stopping counterfeit currency, improving durability, integrating modern identification features, and reflecting Pakistan’s contemporary national image.

Security enhancements planned for the new notes include embedded security threads, multi-layer watermarks, UV-reactive inks, micro-text printing, and color-shifting elements. These features are designed to help citizens, banks, and businesses easily verify authenticity, similar to having multiple layers of protection on a secure lock.

Polymer notes, made from durable plastic instead of paper, are under serious consideration. Polymer notes are longer-lasting, water- and dirt-resistant, tear-proof, and harder to counterfeit, with successful examples in countries like Australia and the UK. Final approval for the material—paper, polymer, or a combination—is still pending.

Beyond security, the new designs aim to reflect Pakistan’s identity, incorporating themes such as mountains, rivers, deserts, cultural heritage, landmarks, women’s contributions, climate change awareness, and a forward-looking national image. The goal is to showcase a confident and modern Pakistan in everyday transactions.

The official rollout is expected in stages. Final design approval is anticipated in the first quarter of 2026, printing to begin mid-year, and public circulation by late 2026. Notes will be gradually distributed to banks and ATMs to avoid disruption. Old notes will remain valid and circulate alongside the new designs for several years, allowing banks, businesses, and the public to adjust without confusion or panic.

For the public, no immediate action is required. Existing notes can continue to be used, and new notes will enter circulation naturally. The Rs. 5,000 note will remain in use, and polymer notes are still under review. The redesign is officially approved by Pakistan’s federal cabinet and is expected to enhance currency security, protect the economy, and modernize the visual identity of Pakistan’s money.