FE Manual
FE Manual
FE Manual
Foreign
Exchange
Manual
th
8
Edition
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTORY
3. Amendments.
5. Authorised Dealers to notify the Regulations to their Customers and to report Cases of
Evasion.
8. Stationery.
9. Definitions.
1. Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947 and Notifications issued there under.
Foreign Exchange Policy and its operations in Pakistan are formulated and
regulated in accordance with the provisions of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act,
1947. The object of this Act is to regulate, in the economic and financial interest of
Pakistan, certain payments, dealings in foreign exchange, securities, import/export of
currency and bullion. Under the Act, the basic regulations are issued by the Government
of Pakistan and the State Bank in the form of Notifications which are published in the
official Gazette. The Act, as amended up-to date, is reproduced at the end of the Manual
as Appendix I. Notifications issued by the Government of Pakistan under the Act, except
those issued in terms of sub-section (2) of Section 19, sub-section (2) of Section 23 and
Section 23-B are reproduced as Appendix II and those issued by the State Bank are
reproduced as Appendix III.
For the purpose of securing compliance with the provisions of the Act and the
Notifications and any rules, orders or directions issued thereunder, the State Bank may,
under sub-section (3) of Section 20 of the Act, give directions to Authorised Dealers,
travel agents, carriers, stock-brokers and other persons who are authorised by the
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
State Bank to do anything in pursuance of the Act, in regard to making of payments and
carrying out other acts in the course of their business. Directions having general
application are issued in the form of public notices, F.E. circulars and circular letters etc.
Instructions issued by the State Bank to the Authorised Dealers, Authorised Money
Changers, travel agents, carriers, etc., upto 31-12-2001, setting out the terms and
conditions subject to which they may engage in transactions covered by the Act, have
been incorporated in this Manual. Contents of this Manual and all instructions,
directions, orders etc., issued under the Act are without prejudice to the provisions of
any other law of Pakistan or any rules, notifications, orders, directions or regulations
made thereunder.
3. Amendments.
Changes in the regulations are generally advised by issue of F.E. circulars. This edition
of the Manual has been issued in the loose-leaf form. Amendments in the provisions of
the Manual will be printed periodically by the State Bank in the form of replacement
pages which will be substituted in place of the old pages. It will be in the interest of
Authorised Dealers and other holders of the Manual to ensure that it is kept updated
and the old pages are regularly replaced by new pages whenever issued. The Manual
and its amendments will also be posted on the State Bank’s Website (www.sbp.org.pk).
Under the Act, the State Bank is responsible for day to day administration of Foreign
Exchange Policy which is exercised through its Exchange Policy Department. The
Principal Office of the Department is situated at Karachi under the charge of a Director.
The Department has following offices with the jurisdiction of each Office mentioned
there against:
Office Jurisdiction
1. Operations Division,
Exchange Policy Department, Karachi Division.
SBP, Central Directorate,
2. Hyderabad: Hyderabad Division.
3. Sukkur: Sukkur Division.
4. Quetta: Quetta, Kalat, Sibi and Mekran Divisi
5. Lahore: Lahore Division.
6. Faisalabad: Faisalabad and Sargodha Divisions.
7. Sialkot: Sialkot District.
8. Multan: Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan Divisions.
9. Rawalpindi: Rawalpindi Division
10.Islamabad: Federal Capital Area of Islamabad.
Hazara, Kohat, Malakand and
11.Peshawar:
Peshawar Divisions.
5. Authorised Dealers to notify the Regulations to their Customers and to report Cases of
Evasion.
Authorised Dealers must submit to the State Bank returns of their dealings in foreign
exchange on due dates in the forms prescribed in the Manual. Specimens of all
application forms and returns prescribed by the State Bank are given in Appendix V.
8. Stationery.
(i) Forms ‘M’, ‘T-1’, ‘E’ and ‘I’ will be got printed by the Head/Principal Offices of
the Authorised Dealers themselves strictly according to the size, contents and format of
the specimens supplied to them by the State Bank. These forms should bear an
identifying prefix as per Appendix IV followed by serial numbers in six digits except in
the case of form 'E' which will have seven digits. For example, the first number of all the
forms printed by XYZ bank except form 'E' will be "XYZ 000001" (i.e. six digits) and so
on, and in the case of form 'E', the serial number will be"XYZ 0000001" (i.e. seven
digits) and so on. The other prescribed forms may also be got printed by the Authorised
Dealers themselves. These must conform exactly in size, content and format to the
respective forms prescribed by the State Bank.
(ii) As omission of any part in the printing of the forms is likely to make a
material change and may weaken the position of the State Bank legally, Authorised
Dealers should take utmost care in the printing of the forms. They should also keep an
updated record of the forms printed and distributed to their branches, which should be
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
9. Definitions.
Terms having special meanings for the purposes of the Act have been defined in
Sections 2 and 13 of the Act.
i) For the purposes of Section 13 of the Act the term "persons resident outside
Pakistan" covers a foreign national including foreign nationals of Indo-Pak origin as
also Pakistanis holding dual nationality for the time being resident in Pakistan. A
company registered in Pakistan which is controlled directly or indirectly by "persons
resident outside Pakistan" is, for the purposes of Sections 13 and 18 of the Act, treated
as a "person resident outside Pakistan".
ii) For the purposes of Section 5 of the Act the term "persons resident outside
Pakistan" also includes nationals of Pakistan and persons domiciled in Pakistan, except
persons holding office in the service of Pakistan, who go out of Pakistan for any
purpose.
iii) In respect of purposes other than the above, a resident person, bank or firm is
a person who resides in Pakistan. A non-resident is a person, bank or firm, who resides
outside Pakistan. No definite rules can be laid down for determining whether a person is
ordinarily resident in Pakistan but there is a presumption that a person is resident if he
maintains a home in Pakistan, or resides in the country for a substantial part of each
year, or pays income tax as a resident of Pakistan. On the other hand, the fact that a
person gives an address in Pakistan does not necessarily mean that he should be
regarded as a resident if he is in fact only a temporary visitor and is ordinarily resident
outside Pakistan.
iv) The following terms used in the Manual are described below:
CHAPTER II
1. ........................................................................................................ Authori
sation to deal in Foreign Exchange.
2. ........................................................................................................ Applicat
ion for Authorised Dealer’s Licence.
3. .................................................................................................. Authori
sed Dealers to engage in Transactions within the Scope of their Authorisations.
4. .................................................................................................. Authori
sed Dealers should satisfy that no Contravention or Evasion of the Provisions of the Act is
contemplated.
5. ........................................................................................................ Authori
sed Money Changers (AMCs).
6. ........................................................................................................ Code of
Conduct for Authorised Money Changers.
7. ........................................................................................................ Inspecti
on of Authorised Money Changers.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(i) In terms of the powers vested in it by section 3 (1) & 3 (2) of the Act, the State Bank
may on application authorise any person to deal in foreign exchange. An authorisation may
authorise dealings in all foreign currencies or may be restricted to authorising dealings in specified
foreign currencies only and may authorise transactions of all descriptions in foreign currencies or
may be restricted to authorising specified transactions only.
(ii) Authorisations to deal in all foreign currencies and in approved transactions of all
descriptions are issued to those scheduled banks which conduct all types of banking transactions.
Authorisations limited to specified transactions are issued to those Non-bank financial institutions
which undertake limited banking transactions.
(i) Applications for grant of Authorised Dealer’s Licence should be made by the Head
Office of the bank/NBFI or the Principal Office in Pakistan in the case of a foreign bank, to the
Director, Exchange Policy Department, stating the nature of transactions that are desired to be
dealt with and it should be confirmed that trained staff and the required systems and equipments
to handle foreign currency transactions are available.
(ii) Once the Head Office/Principal Office of a bank or NBFI has obtained an authorisation
to deal in foreign exchange, it would be free to decide the names of those of its branches, which
would conduct foreign exchange business. In case it is decided that a branch which was not
previously authorised to deal in foreign exchange, is to be allowed to start such business, its
name and address shall be communicated to the Director, Exchange Policy Department, who will
allocate a code number to the branch for statistical purpose. The branch can, thereafter start
dealing in foreign exchange.
(iii) Every Branch of a bank authorised to deal in foreign exchange, is however authorised to
purchase foreign currency notes, coins, travellers cheques and demand drafts. Such transactions
should be reported to a branch designated by its head office/controlling office for consolidation
and reporting to the State Bank through the prescribed returns.
(iv) The State Bank may, without assigning any reason, refuse to grant an authorisation to
deal in foreign exchange. It may also withdraw an authorisation already granted or prohibit
dealings in foreign exchange by any branch of an Authorised Dealer in accordance with the powers
vested vide section 3B of the Act.
An Authorised Dealer shall, in all its dealings in foreign exchange, comply with such
general or special instructions which the State Bank may give from time to time and shall not
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
engage in any transaction involving foreign exchange which is not in conformity with the terms of
its authorisation.
In terms of the powers vested by Section 3A of the Act the following terms and conditions are
laid down for grant of AMC’s Licence to Pakistani nationals and resident Pakistani firms and
companies: -
i) Application for grant of licence to act as an AMC should be made to the area office of
the Exchange Policy Department where the applicant’s business is located. The application should
contain full particulars as regards business conducted by the applicant, location of business
premises, name and address of the proprietor/partners/directors of the applicant and the same
may be routed through an Authorised Dealer/applicant’s banker who should enclose a confidential
report on the financial standing and creditworthiness of the applicant and its suitability for grant of
AMC’s licence. The grant of AMC’s Licence will be subject to the following terms and conditions: -
Fresh licence
Renewal of licence
• Branch Rs.12,000/-each
b) An applicant for grant of fresh licence will also produce the following documents: -
aa)Police verification report to the effect that the applicant was not involved in any illegal activities.
However, this will not be applicable in case of existing Money Changers. AMC licence will not be
issued to a person who was found involved in illegal activities or was convicted by a Court of Law.
cc)Wealth Statement and evidence of being a taxpayer as detailed in the following sub-paragraphs (ii)
and (iii).
dd)Evidence to the effect that the applicant possesses a suitable business space built on an area of not
less than 10' x 10' in size in which no other business activity of whatsoever nature will take place.
Proper counter(s) shall be installed for public convenience. However, this requirement will not be
applicable for hotels, curio shops, and booths at airports/departmental stores or where specially
permitted by the State Bank on the merit of each case. The State Bank of Pakistan will have the
right to declare any premises un-suitable for the conduct of money changer’s business, if it is not
suitably located in a public place.
ee)An undertaking to the effect that the request is being made for single office/multi branches, as the
case may be, and the applicant has thoroughly studied the Code of Conduct for AMCs and will
abide by all rules and regulations mentioned therein or issued from time to time.
ff) Evidence to the effect that the applicant has reasonable knowledge and experience in the field of
foreign exchange business.
c) Application for renewal of licence should be made to the State Bank through an
Authorised Dealer/applicant’s banker at least two weeks before the expiry date of relative licence
alongwith the following documents:
cc) Tax Paid Challan/No Demand Certificate issued from Income Tax Department.
ii) Where an applicant wishes to establish more than one branch, its net worth capital
should not be less than Rs 5 million, whereas in case of a single office it should not be less than
Rs 2 million as per wealth statement filed with the Income Tax Department.
iii) AMC’s licence shall be granted only to Pakistan nationals and resident
Pakistani firms and companies who are paying Income Tax. An applicant for more than one branch
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
should be a taxpayer of at least Rs 70,000/- per annum and for single branch licence Rs 25,000/-
per annum. Tax and bank loan defaulters will not be eligible for grant of licence.
ii) AMC’s commercial name should not include words such as bank, financial
institution, investment company, trading company, real estate or any other word indicative of
activities other than money changing business. However, hotels, curio shops, departmental stores
or any other premises specially permitted by the State Bank can use their original name.
iii) An AMC shall not be permitted to deal in transfers i.e. T.Ts, D.Ds etc.
However, there will be no restriction on bringing in foreign currency through banking channels
from outside the country. Further, the money changers shall be prohibited to undertake any other
banking activity such as acceptance of deposits, advancing of loans, issuance of letters of credit,
discounting bills of exchange, purchases/sales of traveller’s cheques and stocks/securities, release
of foreign exchange for travel abroad on various accounts as defined in Chapter XVII of Foreign
Exchange Manual as modified through F.E. Circulars from time to time or purchase/sale of gold
and silver in any form or of other precious metals.
v) All purchases and sales made by AMCs in terms of their licence will be at
their own risk and responsibility. They will make their own arrangements to procure the stock of
various currency notes and coins for meeting their daily requirements and also to dispose of their
surplus holdings. They should also make arrangement to ensure that the foreign currency notes
handled by them are genuine. The AMCs will not be entitled to make any purchases of foreign
currency notes/coins from any Authorised Dealer against payment in rupees.
vi) AMCs shall maintain proper books of accounts and upon State Bank's
directive, provide all data, information, books of accounts and other record relating to their
business.
viii) The name/title of the business shall be displayed clearly and in a bold face
outside the business premises.
ix) The business premises should be equipped with Telephone, Fax and
Electronic Cash Registers or some other electronic device for printing serially numbered receipts of
their sales/purchases transactions.
x) AMCs will ensure that an effective system of internal controls and checks and
balance is in place.
xi) AMCs will follow same opening hours as prescribed for the banks. However,
they may observe extended business hours.
xii) AMCs will be free to trade between themselves domestically with proper
accounting procedure as laid down above.
xiii) AMCs will submit a weekly statement of sales and purchases, for weeks
ending on 8th, 15th, 22nd and last day of each month to area office of the Exchange Policy
Department within 3 days in the prescribed proforma (Appendix V-2).
xiv) AMCs shall be bound by the rules and regulations prescribed by the State
Bank from time to time. Any violation of such rules may result in penalty, suspension or
cancellation of licence.
The State Bank shall have the right to visit the premises and inspect the records and books of
accounts of the AMCs. The State Bank may withdraw the licence of any such AMC who:
ii) does not commence its activities within three months from the date of grant of licence,
iv) does not submit weekly statement of sales and purchases of foreign currencies for eight consecutive
weeks and,
CHAPTER III
1. Section 4 (2) of the Act lays down that, except with the general or special permission
of the State Bank, all transactions in foreign exchange shall be carried out at rates authorised by
the State Bank. A general permission has been given to Authorised Dealers to determine their own
rates of exchange, both for ready and forward transactions for the public, subject to the condition
that the margin between the buying and selling rates should not exceed fifty paisa per US dollar
or its equivalent in other currencies. This condition does not apply to inter-bank transactions.
2. In the case of an import bill against which no forward cover has been taken by the
importer, the exchange rate prevailing on the date of lodgement of the bill would apply.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER IV
1............................................................................................................ General.
2............................................................................................Forward Quotations.
8.............. Forward cover to the Investment Banks, Leasing and Modaraba Companies.
1. General.
(i) Authorised Dealers may enter into contracts for forward purchase or sale of foreign
currencies subject to the regulations set out in this chapter. Before entering into a forward
exchange contract with the public, the Authorised Dealers should satisfy themselves about the
bonafides of the applicants and ensure that forward cover is required for genuine and firm
transactions of approved nature. For this purpose, they should call for verification, the offers and
acceptance and/or formal contracts duly signed by the exporters/importers and/or letters of
credit. Originals or photocopies of these documents should be retained by the Authorised Dealers.
The number and date of the forward contract should be endorsed by the Authorised Dealers under
their seal and signature on all the copies including the originals, even in cases where these are
returned to the applicants. Similarly, Authorised Dealers should indicate, on the relative forward
contract, the particulars of the documents which have been verified by them and on the basis of
which the forward contract has been booked.
(ii) Forward cover may be provided even if the letter of credit has been opened through
another Authorised Dealer or contract etc. has been registered with or export documents have
been handled by another Authorised Dealer. Such cover would be provided on the basis of a
certificate from the concerned Authorised Dealer confirming, inter-alia, that no forward cover has
been provided by it against the transaction.
2. Forward Quotations.
Authorised Dealers may provide forward cover for exports, imports, foreign private loans covered
under paragraph 8, Chapter XIX (on roll-over basis) and repatriable foreign currency loans
mentioned in paragraph 15, Chapter XIX of the Manual (excluding loans obtained by foreign
contractors and branches of foreign companies) for any duration subject to any restriction
mentioned in subsequent paragraphs, in accordance with the conditions prevailing in the market.
No forward transaction may, however, be made for a tenor of less than one month. Further, one
month's forward transactions should be for fixed maturity. In case payment is made/received
within one month, the spot selling/buying rate will be applied and the relevant contract will be
closed out at the maturity date.
(i) In the case of export of goods from Pakistan against a firm contract, Authorised
Dealers may purchase foreign currencies forward for delivery upto six and a half months from the
last date of shipment as provided in the contract/EPC form/letter of credit. Such purchases may
be made at any time from/after the date of contract/EPC form/letter of credit. Purchases in case
of exports on consignment sale basis, may be made at any time after the shipment has taken
place but the last date of delivery should not fall after six and a half months from the date of
shipment. In both the cases of exports against firm contract and on consignment basis where
State Bank's prior approval has been obtained for the realisation of sale proceeds beyond six
months, the purchase contract may provide for delivery upto fifteen days after the extended date
for realisation.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(ii) In the case of export of goods to be invoiced in any convertible currency other than
U.S. Dollar, it is permissible to buy forward the concerned currency in terms of U. S. Dollar, if the
exporter wishes to cover only such risk and to carry dollar versus rupee risk himself. The
Authorised Dealers will conduct such transactions within their approved ‘Exchange Exposure'
limits. On realisation of the proceeds the equivalent U. S. Dollar amount at the booked rate will
not be delivered but converted at the spot rate and the rupee equivalent will be paid to the
exporter.
(i) Authorised Dealers may sell foreign currencies forward in cover of imports into
Pakistan on cash basis under letters of credit or registered contracts. The sale contract may be
booked at any time after opening of letter of credit or registration of contract. A forward sale may
also be made after the receipt of an import bill drawn on usance basis, but such a sale may not
provide for delivery beyond the date of maturity of the bill.
(ii) Forward cover facility will not be made available in respect of the following: -
c. Sale of foreign exchange to overseas bank's branches and correspondents to cover rupee bills
negotiated by them under letters of credit established by Authorised Dealers in Pakistan.
(i) Authorised Dealers may sell foreign currencies forward to non-residents for portfolio
investment made by them in rupee denominated shares and securities on repatriation basis out of
funds remitted from abroad, as permitted vide Chapter XX of the Manual. The forward cover can
also be provided on the date of conversion of foreign currency into rupees, pending their
investment. Such sales would be made only for the amount brought in or the face value of the
security, whichever is higher. No forward cover will be provided for dividend/interest/coupon
income. Forward cover will also not be provided for Foreign Direct Investment. The maximum
period of sales should be twelve months, which may be extended in the manner laid down in
paragraph 9.
(ii) A forward sale may also be made by an Authorised Dealer other than the one
maintaining the Special Convertible Rupee Account or providing custodial service for investment
provided the customer gives a declaration that the investment has been made on repatriation
basis and that cover has not already been obtained from any other Authorised Dealer.
Authorised Dealers may freely enter into forward transactions with each other, provided their
‘Exchange Exposure' at the end of the day remains within the prescribed limits.
Authorised Dealers may enter into forward transactions with their overseas branches and
correspondents in respect of currencies other than U.S. Dollar, in cover of transactions entered
into by them with their customers.
Authorised Dealers may provide forward cover to the Investment Banks, Leasing Companies and
Modaraba Companies holding restricted Authorised Dealer's Licences issued by the State Bank of
Pakistan, in respect of the funds mobilized by them from abroad against issuance of Certificates of
Investment and surrendered to the State Bank provided they have not obtained forward cover
from the State Bank.
It would be permissible to extend the contracts on roll over basis even for less than one
month if the export proceeds have not been realised and extension in the period of realisation has
been granted by the Authorised Dealer/State Bank or import bill is not paid in accordance with the
terms of letter of credit/registered contract. Such extensions would be made by closing out the
original contract and booking of a fresh contract at the new rate.
In case an exporter books forward cover and presents thereagainst an export bill drawn
on usance basis for discounting, the Authorised Dealer may treat discounting of the usance bill as
delivery against the forward contract provided such bills are presented for discounting during the
option delivery period only. In all other cases the foreign currency receipts in respect of
discounted bills will not be considered as delivery against forward contract and the Authorised
Dealer will discount the bill at its current applicable rate and close out the contract on maturity.
(i) Forward contracts, which are not taken up, may be closed out on the date of maturity.
In the case of closure of forward exchange contracts, the difference between the booked forward
rate excluding the element of usance, if any, and the prevailing spot rate for the counter
transaction on the day of the maturity will be recoverable from or payable to the customer, as the
case may be.
(ii) The State Bank reserves the right to direct under sub-section (2) of section 4 of the
Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947 that all forward contracts or any particular forward
contract or class of forward contracts shall be closed out at the rate ruling on the day on which
they were booked or on any other day within the currency of the contract(s) at its discretion and
not necessarily at the rates ruling on the day on which they are closed out.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
If in any particular case or cases State Bank is not satisfied with the transactions for
which forward cover has been booked, it may direct the Authorised Dealers to cancel the forward
contract immediately or within such period as it may prescribe.
(i) Where the foreign beneficiary of a letter of credit is changed in accordance with the
instructions contained in Chapter XIII, Authorised Dealers may allow the forward foreign exchange
booked in respect of the original letter of credit to be used for the new letter of credit provided the
currency and the description of the commodity of the new letter of credit are the same as of the
original letter of credit.
(ii) Where delivery against a forward sale made by an exporter against a particular
contract or letter of credit cannot be made due to non-shipment, the exporter may give delivery
out of export proceeds repatriated by him against other contract/letter of credit.
Persons maintaining foreign currency accounts with the Authorised Dealers in Pakistan
can sell forward the balances held in their accounts to the importers in connection with import
letters of credit/indents, proforma invoices, orders registered with the Authorised Dealers for
imports on consignment basis. The procedure to be followed in this regard is as under:
(i) The importer and foreign currency account holder (hereinafter called the “seller”) will agree to the
deal under intimation to the Authorised Dealer. For smooth conduct of transaction, it is necessary
that the importer and seller are the customers of the same Authorised Dealer.
(ii) The seller will authorise the Authorised Dealer to mark a lien on the respective foreign currency
account to the extent of the amount involved.
(iii) The Authorised Dealer will make separate arrangement with the importer for recovery at the
opportune time of rupee equivalent at the forward rate agreed to between the importer and the
seller.
a.The Authorised Dealer will debit the foreign currency account of the seller, take delivery of the
amount from State Bank of Pakistan by lifting the cover, where cover has been obtained, take the
foreign currency amount in the Nostro account, report the same as inward remittance under the
code meant for Home Remittance and credit rupee equivalent at the forward rate to the seller’s
non-convertible rupee account.
b.Simultaneously, the Authorised Dealer will lodge the documents in its books at the forward rate
agreed to between the importer and seller. The rupee recoveries from the importers will be made
by the Authorised Dealer as per its own arrangement.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
c.The Authorised Dealer will report the import transaction in the monthly foreign exchange return in
the normal way on Form ‘I’- Schedule E-2.
(v) In case the importer fails to take up the contract arranged with the seller, it will be closed out and
the exchange rate differential settled on the maturity date in the same manner as other forward
sale contracts are closed out e.g. in accordance with paragraph 11 of this chapter.
(vi) The provisions of paragraphs 4 & 9 of this chapter will, ipso-facto, apply to the forward
contracts made in terms of this para.
CHAPTER V
OREIGN CURRENCY ACCOUNTS OF AUTHORISED DEALERS AND SALE OF FOREIGN
CURRENCIES
1. Introduction.
8. Inter-bank transactions.
9. Purchase of U.S. Dollars from and their sale to the Authorised Dealers by the State
Bank.
10. Purchase and sale of Foreign Currency from and to Banks’ Overseas Branches and
Correspondents.
1.
Introducti
on.
This chapter sets out the regulations governing purchase and sale of foreign currencies by
Authorised Dealers in the inter-bank market in Pakistan as well as their purchase from and sale to
the State Bank and overseas branches and correspondents.
2. Accounts
in Foreign Currencies.
Authorised Dealers are permitted to open and maintain accounts in all fully convertible currencies
with their branches and correspondents abroad, subject to the condition that opening of every
new account should be reported to the Director, Exchange Policy Department by a letter giving the
name and address of the foreign branch or correspondent with whom the account has been
opened and the currency of the account.
3. Foreign
Currency held at the disposal of the State Bank.
Foreign currency balances of Authorised Dealers, whether operated by their Head/Principal Offices
or branch offices, shall at all times be held at the disposal of the State Bank which may give such
directions for their disposal as it may consider necessary and expedient. The State Bank may
direct Authorised Dealers at any time to sell either ready or for forward delivery, foreign currency
or currencies held by them to the State Bank or to such other person or persons as the State Bank
may direct.
4. Exposure
Limits and Nostro Limits.
i) The State Bank fixes from time to time limits for foreign exchange exposure on an verall basis
for all currencies for each bank authorised to deal in foreign exchange. These limits are intended
to cover the positions of all the branches in Pakistan of banks incorporated abroad, and all the
branches, including overseas branches, if any, of banks incorporated in Pakistan. Head/ Principal
Offices of Authorised Dealers should ensure on day to day basis that these limits are not
exceeded. It is advisable that Authorised Dealers maintain square or near square exposure.
The guidelines for calculating the exposure appear as a Memorandum at the end of Appendix III.
6. Exchange
Exposure Position.
Authorised Dealers are required to report to the Exchange & Debt Management Department, State
Bank of Pakistan, all the foreign exchange transactions (ready, forward, take-ups, cancellation and
adjusting entries etc.) entered into by them with customers as well as with other Authorised
Dealers that create foreign exchange exposure in any currency, transacted during a day on floppy
diskettes using the software installed by SBP on each bank's computers.
Floppy diskettes alongwith following reports generated by the software, duly signed by an
Authorised Officer, are required to be submitted on daily basis to the Exchange & Debt
Management Department, State Bank of Pakistan by close of office hours:
a) Deals
b) Take-ups
c) Cancelled deals
d) Adjusting entries
e) Closing balance
7. Purchase
and sale of Foreign Currencies.
Authorised Dealers may freely purchase foreign currencies, as there are no restrictions on inward
remittances. All sales of foreign currencies to customers must, however, be in cover of genuine
transactions approved by the State Bank or by the Authorised Dealers under powers delegated to
them.
8. Inter-bank
transactions.
Authorised Dealers may freely buy and sell foreign currencies from and to other Authorised
Dealers in Pakistan provided they remain within their permissible exposure limit.
9. Purchase of U.S. Dollars from and their sale to the Authorised Dealers by the State Bank.
The State Bank may, at its discretion, buy U.S. dollars from and sell to the Authorised Dealers
both ready and forward.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
10. Purchase and sale of Foreign Currency from and to Banks’ Overseas
Branches and Correspondents.
Authorised Dealers may freely purchase both ready and forward one foreign currency against
another from their overseas branches and correspondents in order to cover their positions.
Purchase of foreign currencies from and their sale to banks' overseas branches and
correspondents against Rupee may be made in accordance with the provisions of Chapter VII.
CHAPTER VI
6. F.E. 25 Scheme.
10. Reporting of receipts into and payments from foreign currency accounts.
(i) Authorised Dealers may, without prior approval of the State Bank, open with them
foreign currency accounts of the following: -
g) Charitable Trusts, Foundations etc. which are exempted from income tax.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
j) All foreign firms/corporations, other than banks and financial institutions owned by
Banks, incorporated and operating abroad provided these are owned by persons who
are otherwise eligible to open foreign currency accounts.
However, the facility is not available to airlines and shipping companies operating
in/through Pakistan or collecting passage and freight in Pakistan and the investment
banks, leasing companies and modaraba companies including those which have been
granted licences to deal in foreign exchange.
(ii) Opening of foreign currency account covered by sub-para (i) is subject to the
condition that these are not fed with:
a) any foreign exchange borrowed under any general or specific permission given by the
State Bank, unless otherwise permitted;
b) any payment for goods exported from Pakistan;
e) earnings or profits of the overseas offices or branches of Pakistani firms and companies
including banks, investment of resident Pakistanis abroad; and
f) any foreign exchange purchased from an Authorised Dealer in Pakistan for any purpose.
(iii) Corporate Bodies/Legal entities cannot generate funds from the Kerb
market for deposit in their foreign currency accounts.
(iv) Foreign currency accounts can be fed by remittances received from abroad,
travellers cheques issued outside Pakistan (whether in the name of account holder or in
the name of any other person), foreign currency notes and foreign exchange generated
by encashment of securities issued by the Government of Pakistan.
(v) Opening by firms/companies of foreign currency accounts, which are to be
fed through the funds of foreign equity/foreign currency loans raised for establishment
of industrial and other projects and by contractors who receive payments in foreign
exchange from the employers, would be as per procedure laid down in paragraph 8 of
this chapter.
(vi) These accounts are free from all Foreign Exchange restrictions. In other
words, account holders have full freedom to operate on their accounts to the extent of
the balance available in the accounts either for local payments in Rupees or for
remittance to any country and for any purpose or for withdrawals in the shape of
foreign currency notes and travellers cheques. However, a restriction was placed on
withdrawal in foreign currency from some categories of foreign currency accounts
existing as on 28th May, 1998. The instructions issued vide FE Circular No.12 of 1998,
as amended from time to time, would continue to be operative, till the restrictions are
lifted. Holders of such accounts are, however, free to transfer their accounts from one
Authorised Dealer to another.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(i) Under the State Bank’s forward cover scheme, the Authorised Dealers will
fix their own rates of interest for Term Deposits of 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, 2
years and 3 years provided they do not exceed the average Bid rates provided by British
Banker’s Association (BBA) for the concerned currencies at the close of business on the
previous working day plus the margins prescribed by the State Bank from time to time.
The maximum rates for payment of interest, including the margins allowed by the State
Bank, are published daily by the Foreign Exchange Rates Committee.
(ii) As regards foreign currency deposits of less than 3 months including Call
Deposits, Savings Bank, Special Notice etc. accounts, Authorised Dealers shall pay
interest on the basis of return last allowed on similar Rupee PLS Accounts provided the
rate at which interest is paid does not exceed the interest rate applicable to 3 months
Term Deposits of the relevant foreign currency.
(iii) Authorised Dealers shall sell all the deposits in foreign currency accounts
to the State Bank in multiples of US$ 1,000/-, £ Stg.1,000/-, Euro 1,000/- and J. Yen
250,000/-. State Bank shall cover exchange risk of all such deposits as well as interest
accruing thereon at the option of the Authorised Dealers, subject to payment of fee at
the time of taking the forward cover at the rate(s) prescribed by the State Bank from
time to time. Fee is payable on the full amount of forward cover obtained
notwithstanding whether it is in respect of the amounts of deposit or for both the
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
amount of deposit and interest. In case of premature withdrawal of deposit, fee for the
unexpired period is refundable.
As an exception to the rules set out in paragraph 1(i) to (j) of this chapter,
Authorised Dealers can accept foreign currency deposits from their overseas branches
and foreign banks operating abroad, including financial institutions owned by them,
provided the amount and period of maturity of such deposits is not less than those
prescribed from time to time. Interest on these foreign currency deposits can be paid by
the Authorised Dealers annually, six monthly or quarterly in accordance with the option
exercised by the depositor in writing at the time of placement of deposits. Interest can
be paid at the rate not exceeding the prescribed margins over Bid rate for the respective
period as provided by the BBA at the close of business on the working day immediately
preceding the date of deposit as published by the Foreign Exchange Rates Committee.
6. F.E. 25 Scheme.
(i) The amounts of foreign currency deposits accepted outside State Bank’s
forward cover scheme i.e. under F.E. Circular No. 25 of 1998, are not required to be
surrendered to the State Bank and the Bank will not provide any forward cover for the
same. The Authorised Dealers accepting such deposits are free to lend, invest and place
on deposit such funds in Pakistan and abroad subject to the observance of regulations
prescribed under the Banking Companies Ordinance.
(ii) Authorised Dealers are free to decide the rate of return offered on such
deposits, provided the maximum rate of return does not exceed LIBOR applicable on the
date of determination of such return/profit.
7. Special Foreign Currency Accounts of Private Power Projects.
(i) Authorised Dealers may open the following Special Foreign Currency
Accounts/Off-shore Foreign Currency Accounts of private power projects in Pakistan as
per the Implementation Agreements (IAs) entered into with Private Power and
Infrastructure Board (PPIB), Government of Pakistan. These accounts will be
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
maintained during the construction and operation of the projects for the following
purposes subject to the conditions mentioned against each and the balances held in
such accounts will be retained by the Authorised Dealers in addition to their Exposure
Limits and will also not be required to be reported under F.E. 25 Scheme:
This will be maintained for deposit of foreign equity and foreign currency loan
under the Loan Agreement registered with the State Bank. The amounts available
therein will be utilized for the purposes of the project as provided for in the IAs.
This will be maintained subject to the condition that the balance will be remitted to
Pakistan once the dispute is over.
This will be maintained for depositing the amount required for Debt Service.
This will be maintained subject to the condition that this account will be liquidated
simultaneously with the retirement of debt and the maximum balance in this account
would not exceed the next 12 months Debt Service Payment (both Principal and
Interest).
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
This will be opened and maintained subject to the condition that this amount will be
liquidated simultaneously with the life of the agreement and that this account will hold
the maximum of US$ 3 million during the term of Power Purchase Agreement.
This will be used for receiving remittance of dividends as and when declared and
paid by the company.
(iv) There will be nil balance in the Main Control Account and all other accounts
after the expiry of the relevant Agreement Period.
(vi) Authorised Dealers will ensure that Income Tax, wherever due on
payments made through the accounts, is duly deducted and paid to the Income Tax
Authorities.
(vii) Authorised Dealers may also open Special Foreign Currency Accounts of
the foreign EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) and O&M (Operation and
Maintenance) contractors of the Power Projects operating in Pakistan with the approval
of the Government for receipt of foreign currency amounts under the contracts awarded
to them by the Power Projects and its utilization in accordance with the EPC/O&M
contracts.
(i) Foreign Oil/Mineral exploration companies and foreign contractors and their
foreign sub-contractors may be allowed by the Authorised Dealers to open foreign
currency accounts under the Scheme described in paragraph 6 or Special Foreign
Currency Accounts subject to the condition that they will meet all their expenditure in
Pakistan including salaries of foreign nationals/non-residents in Pak Rupees only, out of
rupee payments, if any, received by them in terms of their contracts/by converting in
the inter-bank market funds received from their Head Offices/by converting funds from
their foreign currency accounts in the inter-bank market.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(ii) (a) Firms and companies raising foreign equity and foreign currency loan
may be allowed by Authorised Dealers to open special foreign currency account for
receiving and retaining the foreign funds on submission of information about the source
of foreign funding and the amount required to be retained in foreign currency. The
funds available in such foreign currency accounts can be used by the account holders
for making only those types of payments which are otherwise permissible in terms of
the instructions laid down in this Manual (e.g. imports, consultancy) and which are
related to the business of the account holder. Any amount not so used will be required
to be converted into rupees in the inter-bank market and no withdrawal will be allowed
in the shape of foreign currency notes.
10. Reporting of receipts into and payments from foreign currency accounts.
Receipt of foreign currency amounts for credit to the foreign currency accounts
under the Forward Cover Scheme should be reported by the Authorised Dealers as
"Purchase" on Schedule 'J' under Code 9718 in the case of accounts opened in terms of
paragraph 1 and under Code 9828 in respect of accounts opened under special
permission granted by the State Bank in accordance with the provisions of paragraphs 7
& 8 ibid. Similarly payments out of the foreign currency accounts should be reported by
the Authorised Dealers as "Sale" on Schedule E-4 under Code 1718 in the former case
and under Code 1828 in the later case. Transactions in accounts covered by paragraph 6
are not required to be reported in the summary statements.
Authorised Dealers should report the payments in rupees from foreign currency
accounts as "Sale" on Schedule E-4 under Code 1718 or 1828, as the case may be. The
Rupee receipts should simultaneously be reported as "Purchase" on relevant schedules
under a code appropriate to the purpose of the receipt.
In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 9 of the Act, the Government have
issued Notification No. SRO 1016(1) 79 dated the 17th October, 1979 (Appendix II-8)
requiring all citizens of Pakistan and other persons residing in Pakistan continuously for
six months or more, who become the owner of any foreign exchange whether held in
Pakistan or abroad, to sell such foreign exchange to an Authorised Dealer within three
months of the date of acquisition by them of such foreign exchange. The provisions of
the aforesaid notification do not apply to the following cases viz:
(i) Foreign exchange held abroad by foreign diplomats and foreign nationals
employed in Embassies and Missions of foreign countries in Pakistan.
For the purposes of the aforesaid notification the term "residents in Pakistan"
excludes citizens of Pakistan in foreign countries so long as they stay outside Pakistan,
but includes foreign nationals who reside continuously in Pakistan for six months or
more.
CHAPTER VII
NON-RESIDENT RUPEE ACCOUNTS OF FOREIGN BANK BRANCHES AND
CORRESPONDENTS
1. General.
1. General.
Rupee accounts of all banks' overseas branches or correspondents are treated as non-
resident accounts. The accounts of different branches of the same bank situated in different
countries must be identified separately and the accounts of each branch or group of branches in
one country should be designated as accounts of that country.
Authorised Dealers may open new non-resident Rupee accounts in the names of their
overseas branches or correspondents without the prior approval of the State Bank.
Drawings can be made on the non-resident Rupee accounts of overseas banks by their
branches and correspondents located in any other country irrespective of their monetary area.
Any payment for credit to non-resident Rupee account of any bank's overseas branch or
correspondent constitutes an outward remittance and is equivalent to a sale of the appropriate
foreign currency. Such payments may be made by the Authorised Dealers against approved
transactions covered by 'T-1', 'I' or 'M' forms approved by the State Bank or by the Authorised
Dealers on behalf of the State Bank as permissible.
Transfers between non-resident bank accounts may be freely allowed by the Authorised
Dealers irrespective of their monetary area. In respect of such transfers credits should be covered
by form 'M' in which the name and address of the bank whose account is debited and the name of
the Authorised Dealer with whom that account is maintained should be given. The form may be
approved by the Authorised Dealer on behalf of the State Bank. No form need to be completed
covering debits, details of which should be reported to the State Bank in the manner prescribed in
Chapter XXII.
Authorised Dealers may freely purchase foreign currencies from banks' overseas
branches and correspondents and credit the Rupee equivalent to their non-resident Rupee
accounts.
Prior approval of the State Bank would be required for the sale of foreign currencies to
non-resident bank branches and correspondents against credit balance available in their non-
resident Rupee account.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER VIII
1. General.
8. Operations on Non-Resident Accounts of Persons, Firms and Companies other than Banks.
10. Responsibility for submitting Form A-7 - Credits to Private Non-resident Accounts.
1. General.
(i) Accounts of individuals, firms or companies resident in countries outside Pakistan are
designated as non-resident accounts. Also under the State Bank's Notification No.FE1/63-SB dated
the 14th October, 1963 issued in pursuance of Section 20(I) (a) of the Act, all nationals of
Pakistan and persons domiciled in Pakistan except persons holding office in the service of
Pakistan, who go out of Pakistan for any purpose viz., employment, study, business tour, pleasure
trip etc., are treated as non-resident for the purpose of Section 5 of the Act, for so long as they
remain outside Pakistan. Accordingly their accounts are also treated as non-resident accounts. All
such accounts are regarded for the purpose of Foreign Exchange regulations as accounts of
countries in which the account holder is residing.
(ii) Non-resident accounts can, therefore, be grouped in the following categories:
(a) Non-resident accounts of Pakistan nationals permanently residing and domiciled abroad.
(b) Non-resident accounts of Pakistan nationals who are abroad for short visits.
(d) Non-resident accounts of foreign nationals ordinarily resident in Pakistan but gone abroad for
short visits.
(iii) Authorised Dealers should mark the accounts of all non-resident persons, firms or
companies in their books as non-resident accounts and also indicate clearly the country of their
residence. All non-resident accounts should be maintained in a separate ledger. Similarly new
non-resident accounts, as also those designated as non-resident accounts consequent upon the
account holders being out of Pakistan, will be maintained in the Non-resident Accounts ledger. As
and when non-resident accounts are re-designated as resident accounts, the same should be
taken out of the Non-resident Accounts ledger.
(iv) Non-resident accounts of the categories mentioned in sub-para (ii) shall be treated as
resident on account holder's permanent return or his temporary visit to Pakistan for which
permission of the State Bank is not necessary and there shall be no restriction on the account
holders' operating these accounts so long as such account holders are resident in Pakistan.
(v) Where any doubt exists whether any account is to be treated as non-resident, an
immediate reference should be made to the State Bank for a decision giving full particulars.
(vi) Authorised Dealers may transfer amounts to and from such accounts only in
accordance with the regulations laid down in this chapter.
New non-resident accounts in the names of persons or firms or companies other than
banks may be opened without the prior approval of the State Bank where accounts are to be
opened with funds received from abroad through banking channel or with Rupee funds which have
been accepted by the State Bank for remittance abroad. Reference of the Monthly Exchange
Returns or the State Bank approval number, as the case may be, should be quoted in the relevant
form A-7 covering the credit.
The accounts of all foreign nationals who are resident in Pakistan and the accounts of
companies or firms (other than banks) whose head offices or controlling interests are outside
Pakistan but the accounts are operated on by persons in Pakistan may be treated as resident
accounts. The account holders or persons in Pakistan authorised to operate on such accounts must
sign form "Q.A.22" (Appendix V-6). Form "Q.A.22" should be obtained by the Authorised Dealers
in duplicate and a copy thereof forwarded to the State Bank for record as and when the account is
opened. Prior approval of the State Bank for opening such accounts is not necessary. However, in
cases where such accounts are desired to be opened with a bank which is not an Authorised
Dealer, prior approval of the State Bank will be necessary. Form "Q.A.22" is an undertaking that
the signatory will not provide any foreign currency against reimbursement in Rupees and that any
transaction on the account not directly connected with the signatory's business in Pakistan will be
reported to the State Bank on form A-7. Declaration on form "Q.A.22" should not be taken from
members of foreign embassies, legations, consulates and accredited representatives of foreign
governments in Pakistan.
Notwithstanding the fact that a constituent has signed form "Q.A.22" the Authorised
Dealer must take all reasonable steps to ensure that the constituent is not making foreign
exchange available to any person in Pakistan other than an Authorised Dealer against
reimbursement in Rupees or is not by any other means contravening the provisions of the Act. It
shall be the responsibility of the Authorised Dealers to bring to the notice of the State Bank
immediately any such irregularities detected by them.
(i) Unless it is prescribed otherwise by the State Bank in respect of any particular Rupee
non-resident account of persons, firms and companies other than banks, all operations on such
accounts shall be governed by the rules set out below. Authorised Dealers may, therefore, raise
debits and afford credits to non-resident accounts accordingly. The applicants will be required to
fill in Form A-7 (Appendix V-7) in respect of these transactions:
(a) Debits:
aa) Payments on account of the account holder direct to the institutions concerned in respect of
insurance premium, club bills or other payments of a regular nature provided the payments are
supported by bills and vouchers.
bb) Government and Municipal dues provided payments are supported by official claims and
payments are made direct to the Government or Municipal agencies.
cc) Debits on account of disbursements in Pakistan limited to the extent of the funds received
from abroad through banking channel.
dd) Debits representing payments through cheques direct to the carriers or the travel agents
for travel within the country by rail or air for self, wife, children and parents and for travel abroad
as approved in Chapter XVII.
ee) Debits on account of purchase of shares of public limited companies and/or securities of the
Government of Pakistan, NIT Units, Prize Bonds, Defence Savings Certificates etc., provided such
shares/securities etc., are purchased by the Authorised Dealers themselves on behalf of the
account holder on the basis of non-repatriation of capital, dividend/interest etc., and registered at
their Pakistan address and also retained by the Authorised Dealers in their custody on behalf of
their constituent concerned so long as he resides outside Pakistan. Sale proceeds of such
investments and dividends/interest etc., accruing thereon should be credited to the non-resident
account only.
ff) Payments against bills for hotel expenses in Pakistan of the family members of the account
holder provided payment is being made direct to the hotel by cheque. The concession is restricted
to hotels of the category of three stars and above only.
gg) Cheques drawn in favour of his dependents resident in Pakistan for maintenance.
jj) Payment of installments of loans direct to the financial institution from whom the account
holder had obtained loan.
(b) Credits:
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
aa) Receipts on account of salary, allowances, bonus, commission etc., directly from the
employers by cheque.
bb) Dividend and interest income on investment in shares and securities directly from the
company by cheque.
cc) Income from landed property and agricultural rent against identity of the depositor.
hh) Sale proceeds of landed property as evidenced from the registered sale deed.
All other debits and credits require prior approval of the State Bank.
(ii) While allowing operations on non-resident accounts in accordance with the above
instructions, the Authorised Dealers must satisfy themselves that the credits/debits to the non-
resident accounts fall under any one of the exempted categories and are in fact meant for the
purpose declared by the applicant. Authorised Dealers should take all possible precautions to
ensure that the above relaxation is not misused in any manner for evasion of any of the provisions
of the Act. It will be the responsibility of the Authorised Dealers to ensure that payments from
non-resident accounts are allowed only in respect of genuine obligations in Pakistan of the account
holders while deposits represent genuine Rupee receipts accruing to the account holders which are
not intended to set off payments effected abroad. Similarly while opening new non-resident
accounts, Authorised Dealers will ensure that the Rupee funds with which the account is proposed
to be opened, represent receipts from abroad through banking channel or represent Rupee funds
which have been accepted by the State Bank for remittance abroad. In cases of slightest doubt a
reference should be made to the State Bank for advice. If transactions passing through a non-
resident account are subsequently found to have been used for compensatory deals, the
Authorised Dealer maintaining the account will be held responsible therefore.
Forms A-7 in support of the transactions on non-resident accounts shall be sent to the
State Bank along with Schedule 'K' prescribed in paragraph 7 of Chapter XXII of this Manual.
In the case of credits to a non-resident account, except when otherwise prescribed, the receiving
banker, i.e. the bank which credits a non-resident account in its books is responsible for ensuring
that form A-7 has been completed or State Bank's approval obtained where required, before
crediting funds to private non-resident accounts. In order that no difficulties arise on this score,
the following procedure is suggested for adoption by all banks. A cheque or draft etc., received for
the credit of a non-resident account of a company, firm or person should be sent by the receiving
bank to the paying bank, stating that a non-resident account is being credited and requesting in
exchange a pay slip accompanied by forms A-7 duly completed by the drawer or by the paying
bank on his behalf and where necessary, approved by the State Bank.
In the case of debits to non-resident accounts cheques should be returned by the paying banker
with the remarks 'Non-resident account, Form A-7 required'. The collecting bank will then arrange
with the customer, for whom the payment is drawn, to submit Form A-7 to the paying banker.
CHAPTER IX
BLOCKED ACCOUNT
Section 6 of the Act confers powers on the State Bank to block accounts in Pakistan of
any person resident outside Pakistan and to direct that payment of any sums due to a
non-resident may be made only to such a blocked account.
All Authorised Dealers in foreign exchange are permitted to maintain blocked accounts
subject to the conditions laid down in this chapter. In certain cases, banks other than
Authorised Dealers in foreign exchange may be authorised by the State Bank to
maintain blocked accounts.
A blocked account may not be opened in the name of a resident of Pakistan unless it is
held jointly with a non-resident. No blocked account may be opened by an Authorised
Dealer or an existing 'free' account blocked except under directions from the State
Bank.
Sub-section (1) (b) of Section 6 of the Act provides that where the State Bank has
directed that any payment due to a non-resident may be made to a blocked account in
his name with a bank in Pakistan, the crediting of the sum to the blocked account shall,
to the extent of the sum credited, be a good discharge to the person making the
payment.
The State Bank may not approve certain remittances in settlement of liabilities to non-
residents under the current Foreign Exchange regulations. Payments in discharge of
such liabilities to non-residents can only be allowed to be made to blocked accounts.
Amounts due to a Pakistani who has emigrated to another country and all amounts due
to a resident of India will be allowed to be paid only into a blocked account of the
beneficiary.
Where State Bank directs that a payment be made to a blocked account only, it may be
made either:
(ii) by a crossed cheque or warrant drawn in favour of the beneficiary and marked with
the words "Payable to blocked account of payee only." Where such a cheque or warrant
is sent to a non-resident, it is desirable that the payee should arrange for the opening of
a blocked account with an Authorised Dealer before forwarding the cheque to that bank
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
for collection. 'Form A-7' with the name of the payee as the transferee and clearly
marked 'Blocked Account' must be submitted to the State Bank for prior approval. The
collecting bank must endorse cheques, warrants or drafts so marked "received for the
credit of blocked account at ………………………… (Bank and Branch)" before presenting
them for payment. The paying bank may not pay such instruments, unless they are
properly marked and unless Form A-7 has been approved by the State Bank for payment
to a blocked account. After payment has been made it must endorse the form on the
back "Payment made to blocked account at ………………………… (Bank and Branch)". The
amount which the State Bank has directed to be placed to a blocked account, must be
immobilised pending the opening of the account and may not be used for any other
purpose except with the prior approval of the State Bank.
Bank accounts and securities belonging to Pakistan and foreign nationals residing
permanently in Pakistan, who emigrate to foreign countries, should be treated as
blocked. For blocking the accounts and securities of intending emigrants the State Bank
will issue necessary instructions to their bankers. Some times Pakistan nationals who
had gone abroad for purposes other than 'Migration', take up permanent residence in a
foreign country. As and when such cases of their clients come to the knowledge of
Authorised Dealers, it will be their responsibility to report them to the State Bank for
instructions as to whether or not the bank account/securities of the person concerned
should be blocked. In such cases pending receipt of instructions from the State Bank,
the securities should be immobilised and no operation on the bank account should be
allowed without its prior approval.
The State Bank may issue special instructions regarding operations on individual
blocked accounts. In the absence of any such special instructions, no payments into or
withdrawal from blocked accounts may be made unless prior approval of the State Bank
has been obtained.
CHAPTER X
1. Inward Remittances.
2. Inward Remittance - No Restrictions.
3. Outward Remittances.
4. Mode of Remittances.
5. Prescribed Application Forms.
6. Applications by Letters.
7. Applications to be submitted to the State Bank only through an Authorised Dealer.
8. Forwarding Applications to the State Bank.
9. Processing of Approved Form etc.
10. Permits for Recurring Remittances.
11. Effecting Remittances against Permits.
12. Period of validity of approval by the State Bank.
13. Release of Foreign Exchange for Travel Abroad.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
14. Processing of Approvals given on one Authorised Dealer's Form by another Authorised
Dealer.
15. Reporting of Remittances.
16. Cancellation of Outward Remittances.
17. Cancellation of Inward Remittances.
18. Utilisation of Exchange for the purpose it is obtained.
1. Inward Remittances.
The term 'inward remittance" means purchase of foreign currencies in whatever form
and includes not only remittances by M.T., T.T., draft etc., but also purchase of travellers
cheques, drafts under travellers letters of credit, bills of exchange, currency notes and
coins etc. Debit to banks' non-resident Rupee accounts also constitutes an inward
remittance. This chapter, however, does not cover purchase of foreign currency notes
and coins which is dealt with in Chapter XI.
3. Outward Remittances.
The term "outward remittance" means sale of foreign exchange in any form and
includes not only remittances by T.Ts, M.Ts, drafts etc., but also sale of travellers
cheques, travellers letters of credit, foreign currency notes and coins etc. Outward
remittance can be made either by sale of foreign exchange or by credit to non-resident
Rupee account of banks' overseas branches or correspondents. Authorised Dealers may
sell foreign exchange for approved transactions only in accordance with the procedure
outlined in this chapter. This chapter does not cover sale of foreign currency notes and
coins which is dealt with in Chapter XI.
4. Mode of Remittances.
Authorised Dealers should normally avoid issuing drafts in cover of outward remittances
whenever remittance can be made by T.Ts, or M.Ts, etc. Where, however, the normal
means of transfer is likely to result in unnecessary hardship or inconvenience to the
remitter, drafts may be issued in the name of the beneficiaries of the remittance but
such drafts should be crossed by the issuing bank as "Account Payee only".
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(i) There are three types of application forms for outward remittances:
(ii) Any person who wishes to purchase foreign exchange must lodge an
application with an Authorised Dealer on the appropriate prescribed form duly
supported by the requisite documents. On receipt, the application should be examined
by the Authorised Dealer and if the Authorised Dealer is satisfied that the application is
covered by the regulations and it is empowered to approve the remittance on behalf of
the State Bank, it may effect the sale of foreign exchange. If the transaction requires
prior approval of the State Bank, the application should be forwarded by the Authorised
Dealer to the State Bank for consideration with comments under its stamp and
signature.
6. Applications by Letters.
In some cases, applications are made by letters as it becomes difficult for the applicants
to fully describe on the prescribed application form the purpose of purchase of foreign
exchange particularly for travel abroad and for purposes other than import. In all such
cases, letters should be accompanied by Form 'T-1' or 'M' as the case may be, duly filled
in. If the remittance is permissible, the State Bank will return the form duly approved.
In cases where remittance is required to be made in installments at periodical intervals,
the State Bank may issue special permits authorising remittances in the desired
manner.
All applications for foreign exchange should be forwarded to the State Bank through
Authorised Dealers who should arrange their delivery to the State Bank through their
own messengers or through post. All applicants who present their applications directly
to the State Bank will be asked to resubmit them through an Authorised Dealer.
When submitting applications to the State Bank, Authorised Dealers should take all
reasonable precautions to satisfy themselves as to the bonafides of the applicants. They
should verify that the application form has been duly completed and signed by the
applicant and then affix their stamp and signature thereon in token of their having
examined the application and of having satisfied themselves that to the best of their
knowledge and belief, the statements made in the form are correct and that full
documentary evidence as required has been submitted. In this connection, reference is
also invited to para 6 of Chapter 1. The applicant should also be advised that under
Section 22 of the Act, it is an offence to give any information or make any statement
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
which he knows or has reasonable cause to believe to be false or not true in any
material particular.
After receipt of approved forms or permits etc., from the State Bank, Authorised Dealers
should see that the forms etc., have been approved by the authorised officers of the
State Bank and that they bear its embossing seal. Authorisations which are signed by
officers whose specimen signatures are not available with the Authorised Dealer, should
be presented to the nearest office of the State Bank for authentication. It is also
important that once a form has been approved by or on behalf of the State Bank, the
Authorised Dealer should effect remittance only on behalf of the original applicant for
whom the form has been approved and in favour of the beneficiary whose name appears
in the approval. They must in no case accept instructions from third parties. In those
cases where Authorised Dealers are empowered under the instructions laid down in this
Manual to approve applications on behalf of the State Bank, they should ensure while
approving the form that the applications are complete in all respects and that all the
necessary documentary or other evidence as required has been submitted to and
examined by them and that they have satisfied themselves as to the genuinness of the
transaction.
(i) Permits (Appendix V-9) issued by the State Bank are of three types. In the
first type of permits, the State Bank authorises remittances upto a stated amount within
a stated period which an Authorised Dealer may make on behalf of the permit holder.
Remittances under such permits may be made during the period of validity of the permit
in amounts as required by the applicant provided that the total of such remittances
under the permit does not exceed the overall limit laid down in the permit.
(iii) The third type of permits allows remittances on a periodical (monthly) basis
but the periodical (monthly) amount is sanctioned on a cumulative basis so that
unutilised amounts for earlier periods (months) can be remitted in subsequent periods
(months). Unutilised amounts may, however, be accumulated only within the validity of
the permit and the entire unutilised balance of such permits will lapse after the last day
of the validity of the permit. In such cases it is not permissible to make remittances in
advance of the entitlements of the subsequent periods (months).
In all cases where permits are issued by the State Bank, it will be in order for the
Authorised Dealers to effect remittances against the permits subject to report on form
'M'. Authorised Dealers must state on form 'M' the number of the permit against which
the remittance has been made and also certify that the remittance has been endorsed
on the permit. The remittance must be endorsed on the reverse of the permit giving the
amount and date of remittance under their stamp and signature. When the permit is
exhausted, it should be returned to the State Bank by the Authorised Dealers alongwith
the form 'M' on which the last remittance is reported. In all cases where the purpose for
which the permit was granted ceases to exist and no further remittances are required or
are permissible, the unutilised permit should be returned to the State Bank with an
advice that the permit should be cancelled.
All Authorisations given by the State Bank are valid for a period not exceeding 30 days
from the date of approval unless they are expressly approved as valid for a specified
longer period or unless they have been revalidated for a further period. Similarly,
permits issued by the State Bank are also valid for specified periods as stated on the
permit. Authorised Dealers should not effect any remittance against approved forms,
permits etc., which have been lapsed unless they have been duly revalidated.
Foreign exchange is issued to the travellers against specific or general approval given
by the State Bank. It may be drawn in any foreign currency equivalent to the sanctioned
amount exclusively in the forms specified in paragraph 44 of Chapter XVII. In cases
where a traveller desires to draw foreign exchange partly in foreign currency
instruments and partly in foreign currency notes, Authorised Dealers will prepare two
separate 'T-1' forms. In the portion meant for their certificate, the Authorised Dealers
will give on both the 'T-1' forms a suitable indication as to the amounts of foreign
exchange released in foreign currency instruments and notes. The 'T-1' forms will be
attached with Schedules E-3 annexed to Summary Statements S-1 and S-6. In the case
of sale of foreign exchange partly in foreign currency instruments and partly in foreign
currency notes against specific approval issued by the State Bank, a photocopy of the
State Bank's sanction will also be made. Authorised Dealers will give a suitable
indication to this effect, both on the original sanction as well as its photocopy which will
be attached with the relative 'T-1' forms and surrendered to the State Bank alongwith
the monthly returns of foreign exchange transactions.
14. Processing of Approvals given on one Authorised Dealer’s Form by another Authorised
Dealer.
'T-1' or 'M' forms in their possession, and score out the prefix and serial number already
appearing on approved form 'T-1' or 'M' under proper authentication. The Authorised
Dealers should, however, destroy that blank form 'T-1' or 'M' whose serial number is so
inserted by them.
Authorised Dealers should submit to the State Bank alongwith the appropriate returns
as laid down in Chapter XXII, forms ‘M’, ‘T’-1 and 'I' as the case may be, in cover of
each remittance effected by them. Where remittances are approved by the State Bank,
the approved forms should be submitted in original. Where approval is given by the
State Bank by letter or through issue of permit, particulars of the letter or of the permit
should be given on the appropriate form before submitting it to the State Bank with the
returns.
In the event of any outward remittance which has already been reported to the State
Bank being subsequently cancelled, either in full or in part, Authorised Dealers must
report the cancellation of the outward remittance as an inward remittance. The return
in which the reversal of the transaction is reported should be supported by a letter
giving the following particulars:
(a) The date of the return in which the outward remittance was reported.
In the event of any inward remittance which has already been reported to the State
Bank, being subsequently cancelled either in full or in part, because of non-availability
of the beneficiary, Authorised Dealers must report the cancellation of the inward
remittance as an outward remittance on form 'M'. The return in which the reversal of
the transaction is reported should be supported by a letter giving the following
particulars:
(a) The date of the return in which the inward remittance was reported.
Where any foreign exchange is acquired by any person other than an Authorised Dealer
for any particular purpose or where any person has been permitted conditionally to
acquire foreign exchange, the said person will not use the foreign exchange so acquired
otherwise than for that purpose or fail to comply with the prescribed conditions. In
cases where the foreign exchange so acquired cannot be used in full or in part for the
purpose for which it was acquired or any of the conditions subject to which the foreign
exchange was released cannot be complied with, the foreign exchange should
immediately be surrendered to an Authorised Dealer.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER XI
6. Sale to Public.
(ii) Besides Authorised Dealers, the State Bank has granted Authorised Money
Changer’s Licences to Pakistan nationals and resident Pakistani firms/companies to
purchase and sell foreign currency notes and coins. They are required to follow the code
of conduct prescribed for them vide Chapter II.
All incoming passengers, whether Pakistani or foreign can bring with them
without any limit foreign currency notes, coins and other instruments which should be
freely purchased by the Authorised Dealers against payment in Rupees. In all cases
Authorised Dealers should issue a certificate of encashment in the prescribed form
(Appendix V-10) and if so desired by the travellers, the purchase should be endorsed on
the traveller's passport. In cases where the foreign currency offered for sale by a
traveller had been originally obtained from an Authorised Dealer, the repurchase should
be endorsed on the traveller's passport in the case of Pakistan nationals only.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealers may also purchase foreign currency notes, coins and other
instruments freely from other Authorised Dealers and Money Changers.
Many countries have restrictions on import of their own currency notes and do not also
allow their repatriation through banking system. Surplus collection of such foreign
currency notes can be disposed of in the international centres at market rates.
Authorised Dealers should arrange with their overseas branches or correspondents to
keep them fully informed of such restrictions on import and repatriation as also about
demonetisation, currency re-organization etc., in foreign countries. Such information
may also be passed on by the Authorised Dealers to those Authorised Money Changers
who are their customers. Authorised Dealers should regulate the sale of foreign
currency notes etc., to travellers keeping in view the restrictions of the respective
countries so that they are not put to any loss or inconvenience on arrival in the foreign
country concerned.
Authorised Dealers may replenish their stocks of foreign currency notes for
meeting the requirements of their customers either by purchasing them from other
Authorised Dealers or by importing them from their overseas branches and
correspondents.
6. Sale to Public.
Authorised Dealers may sell foreign currency notes and coins to persons
proceeding abroad within the amount of foreign exchange sanctioned by the State Bank
or released by the Authorised Dealers under the authority delegated to them in Chapter
XVII subject to compliance of the provision of paragraph 44 of that chapter.
Authorised Dealers may freely sell foreign currency notes and coins to other
Authorised Dealers.
When Authorised Dealers are unable to dispose of their holdings of foreign currency
notes by sale to the public or other Authorised Dealers, they may dispatch such
surpluses to their agents or correspondents abroad for crediting their value to their
foreign currency accounts.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER XII
EXPORTS
1. General.
4. Registration of Exporters.
19. Special Requirements for Export of Wool and other Commodities subject to Grading
Scheme.
1. General.
The Government of Pakistan have, by their Notification Nos.I(6)-ECS/48 and I(7)ECS/48 both
dated the 1st July, 1948 issued in pursuance of Section 12 of the Act, prohibited the export by post
and otherwise than by post, of any goods either directly or indirectly, to any place outside Pakistan,
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
unless a declaration is furnished by the exporter to the Collector of Customs or to such other person as
the State Bank may specify in this behalf that foreign exchange representing the full export value of
the goods has been or will be disposed of in a manner and within a period specified by the State Bank.
This chapter deals with the regulations governing exports from Pakistan.
The prohibition mentioned above does not apply to exports to Afghanistan, exports to Iran by
land route under special arrangement and to the export of:
i) Bonafide trade samples of articles exported as such by an exporter registered under the
Registration (Importers and Exporters) Order, 1993 as amended from time to time, or who has been
exempted from registration thereunder provided the FOB value of samples supplied free of charge does
not exceed the limit notified by the Ministry of Commerce from time to time. Leather garment
manufacturers are entitled to export 50 (fifty) samples in a calendar year irrespective of monetary
ceiling.
iv) goods shipped under the orders of the Government of Pakistan or of such officers as may be
appointed by the Government of Pakistan in this behalf or of the Military, Naval or Air Force authorities
in Pakistan for Military, Naval or Air Force requirements. In the case of export by post, a certificate
signed by a Gazetted Officer or by any person entitled to use service postage stamps should be pasted
on the outer cover of the parcel to the above effect,
v) gift parcels where they are accompanied by a declaration by the sender that the contents of
the parcel are of a value not exceeding the ceiling notified by the Ministry of Commerce for gift parcels
and that the dispatch of the parcel does not involve any transaction in foreign exchange, and
vi) where the packet is covered by a certificate issued by the State Bank to the effect that the
export of the parcel does not involve any transaction in foreign exchange.
Customs authorities will not allow exports without declaration on the export forms except in the
cases listed above.
Exchange policies regarding exports cover all goods exported from Pakistan irrespective of whether
they are subject to licence under the Export Trade Control Regulations or not. Similarly, nothing in the
Exchange policies relieves the exporters from the necessity of complying with the Export Trade Control
Regulations as laid down by the Government from time to time, including the necessity of obtaining an
export licence wherever necessary. The Government of Pakistan has under the Export Trade Control
Regulations banned exports to Israel.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
4. Registration of Exporters.
Under the Registration (Importers and Exporters) Order, 1993, as amended from time to
time, no person can export any goods from Pakistan unless he is duly registered as an exporter with
the Export Promotion Bureau. Authorised Dealers should, therefore, ensure before certifying any
export form 'E' as required in para 8 ibid that the person is so registered. The registration number
should be quoted on the relative export forms.
As required under the Federal Government Notification Nos.I(6)-ECS/48 and I(7)ECS/48 both dated
the 1st July, 1948 the exporters are required to declare their exports to the Customs/Postal authorities
in form 'E' (Appendix V-11).
(i) Full export value of goods exported from Pakistan and declared to the Custom authorities
should be received in an approved manner, as embodied in State Bank's Notification No. F.E. 3/2001-
SB dated the 28th September, 2001 on the due date for payment or within six months from the date of
shipment/posting, whichever is earlier, or within a period as may be prescribed by the State Bank
through specific or general instruction, through an Authorised Dealer either in convertible foreign
currency in which the Authorized Dealer maintains accounts or in U.S. Dollar or in Pakistan rupee from
a non-resident bank account. However, where the terms of sale/irrevocable letter of credit provide for
payment on 180 days’ usance/270 days' usance in the case of Hand Knotted Carpets, from the date of
shipment/posting, it shall be permissible for the exporter to repatriate the export proceeds within
195/285 days from the date of shipment/posting. Similarly, in the case of exports to South American
countries Authorised Dealers may certify Form ‘E’ if the letter of credit provides for payment on 270
days sight/usance from the date of shipment and the export proceeds may be repatriated within 285
days from the date of shipment. Prior approval of the State Bank should be obtained before arranging
for payment in any manner other than that indicated above.
(ii) As an exception to the above, payment for goods exported to countries other than those
with which Pakistan has special payment arrangements e.g. Asian Clearing Union member countries
etc., may also be accepted from foreign currency accounts maintained with banks in Pakistan including
an account maintained by the exporter himself. The transaction shall be reported first on Schedule E-4
as payment to the account holder and simultaneously on Schedule A-1/A-2 as purchase on account of
export proceeds.
(iii) Where the terms of sale provide for payment earlier than six months, Authorised Dealers
may allow extension in the realisation period if they are satisfied with the explanation given for delay
in realisation, provided such extension does not extend the period beyond six months from the date of
shipment.
It is permissible for exporters to retain the export proceeds including ‘Advance Payments’ in
foreign currency with an Authorised Dealer in Pakistan for three working days and to sell the same
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
within this period to any Authorised Dealer. The foreign currency so retained shall be kept by the
Authorised Dealers in ‘ Special Exporters’ Account’ outside their ‘Exposure’ limits.
i) Before the export forms are lodged by the exporters with the Customs/Postal
authorities all the copies thereof are required to be certified as under by the Authorised Dealers:-
a) Certified that the above exporter(s) is/are known to us, that he/they is/are bonafide
businessman/businessmen in Pakistan and that he/they has/have made arrangements with us for
the realisation of the export proceeds, of the goods declared on this form on the due date for
payment or within six months from the date of shipment/posting, whichever is earlier, in accordance
with the State Bank’s Notification No. FE. 3/2001-SB dated the 28th September, 2001 and that we
are satisfied with said arrangements. We have also satisfied ourselves about the bonafides of the
importers/consignees abroad and their credentials etc.
b) We undertake to ensure that export proceeds against shipment on firm contract shall be received
by us on the due date for payment or within six months from the date of shipment/posting, whichever
is earlier, in accordance with the State Bank’s Notification No. FE 3/2001-SB dated the 28th September,
2001. In the event of non-compliance due to reasons beyond our control we shall furnish to the State
Bank of Pakistan a full explanation as to the reasons and circumstances resulting in our inability to
comply.
Authorised Dealers can also advise letters of credit or confirm arrangements and certify
export forms for exports by means of country-craft or motor-launch or truck subject to normal
procedure followed in case of exports.
Head/Principal Offices of Authorised Dealers are required to maintain a complete record of all
export forms printed by them and of their distribution to their branches and customers. For this
purpose, they should maintain a Stock Register which should show branch-wise distribution of the
export forms. It is the responsibility of the Head/Principal Offices to keep their branches adequately
stocked with the export forms.
Authorised Dealers should maintain another register for recording therein the particulars of
export forms issued and certified by them in respect of each exporter. In this register they should
record against each form the date of submission of the export documents in cases where shipments
have been made, or of the surrender of complete set of export forms in cases where goods have not at
all been entered for shipment or of submission of complete “shut-out notice” in cases where the goods
have been entered for shipment but have been shut-out. Against each export form, the Authorised
Dealers should also indicate the date of realisation of the export proceeds wherever the documents are
negotiated or collected through them. In cases where none of the above documents are received by
them within the period of 21 days from the date of certification on the relative export forms, the
Authorised Dealers should immediately get in touch with the exporter concerned to ascertain whether
or not the shipment has been effected. If the Authorised Dealer is satisfied that the exporter has not
yet been able to ship the goods against the certified export form, it should make a suitable notation
against the entry in the register of the relevant certified export form and follow it up till the documents
referred to above are submitted to it. All other cases where the exporters do not respond to the notices
of the Authorised Dealers should be reported to the State Bank on monthly basis in the prescribed
form (Appendix V-12).
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
In exercise of the powers vested in it under Section 20(3) of the Act, all carriers whether
common or private (railway, steamship, motor trucking or airline companies) and their agents have
been directed by the State Bank as under:
(i) (a) In respect of export of goods from Pakistan to foreign countries by land route or by sea, the Railway
Receipts, Bills of Lading, Truck Receipts or any other documents of title to cargo should be drawn only
to the order of an Authorised Dealer designated for the purpose by the exporter. This restriction will
not apply if the exporter produces a certificate to the carrier from the Authorised Dealer concerned in
the prescribed form (Appendix V-13). The certificate will be issued by the Authorised Dealer only if the
shipment is being made against an advance payment or against an irrevocable Letter of Credit which
calls for drawing of documents of title to cargo to the order of the opening bank, or the importer, or
the exporter or to order and blank endorsed. In all cases the railway receipt, bill of lading and other
documents of title to cargo should be delivered by the carriers to the authorised representative of the
Authorised Dealer concerned holding authority letter for collecting these documents.
(b) A Seaway bill may be accepted by the Authorised Dealers if the export is being made against
receipt of advance payment or against an irrevocable letter of credit opened/confirmed by a reputable
bank abroad, envisaging payment on the basis of seaway bill.
(ii) In respect of export of goods to foreign countries by air, the airway bills and any other documents of
title to cargo should be drawn to the order of a bank in the country of import nominated by the
Authorised Dealer designated for this purpose by the exporter. However, in the case of export of goods
against advance payment or against irrevocable letter of credit which contains a condition that the
airway bill and other documents should be drawn to the order of the importer abroad, the airway bill
and other documents of title to cargo may be drawn to the order of the importer abroad, provided the
exporter produces to the carriers a certificate to this effect from the Authorised Dealer concerned in
the prescribed form (Appendix V-13). In all cases the airway bill and other documents of title to cargo
will be delivered by the carriers to the authorised representative of the Authorised Dealer concerned
holding authority letter for collecting these documents.
(iii) The directions contained in sub-paragraphs (i) and (ii) do not apply to the following cases:
(a) Bonafide trade samples provided the F.O.B. value of each consignment supplied free of charge does
not exceed the limit prescribed by the Ministry of Commerce.
(b) Personal effects, whether accompanied or unaccompanied, of travellers.
(c) Ship stores and transshipment cargo.
(d) Goods shipped under the orders of Federal Government or of such officers as may be appointed by
the Federal Government in this behalf or by Military, Naval or Air Force authorities in Pakistan for
Military, Naval or Air Force requirements.
i) The following procedure will be adopted for the export of computer software and
realisation of the proceeds of such exports:
(a) The Software houses/companies will get themselves registered with the concerned area office of the
Exchange Policy Department.
(b) Whenever an exporter concludes an agreement for the export of software, he will submit a copy of
the same to the area office for information.
(c) Each exporter will submit a monthly statement of his exports/earnings in the prescribed form
(Appendix V-14) alongwith the Export Proceeds Realisation Certificates issued by the Authorised Dealer
through which the value of exported software is repatriated to Pakistan.
ii) It is permissible for exporters of software to retain amounts upto 35% of their export
earnings in Special Exporters Foreign Currency accounts opened with the Authorised Dealers
exclusively for payment of commission/discount to the overseas agents/buyers and to use the same to
meet other expenses such as promotional publicity, import of Hardware/Software, foreign consultant’s
fee etc.
As stated in paragraph 2 ibid, exports to Afghanistan are not required to be declared on form ‘E’. In
the case of any foreign exchange becoming due to an exporter against such exports, he is required to
repatriate the same to Pakistan and sell it to an Authorised Dealer against payment in Pakistan
currency. Exports to the Central Asian Republics via Afghanistan by land route would, however, be
subject to declaration on form ‘E’.
The Authorised Dealers to whose order the relative railway receipts, bills of lading etc., are
drawn shall endorse the same to the order of their foreign correspondent but in no case shall they
make any blank endorsement thereon or endorse them to the order of the consignor unless they have
obtained specific or general approval of the State Bank. However, in the case of exports through third
country intermediary i.e. under merchanting arrangements, it will be in order for Authorised Dealers to
make blank endorsement where advance payment has been received or where documents are
negotiated under letters of credit which call for such blank endorsement.
All exports from Pakistan which are subject to Foreign Exchange regulations are required to
be declared on Form 'E' which is in sets of four copies each. The exporter should submit the full set of
Form 'E' to the Authorised Dealer for certification as described in paragraph 8 (i) ibid only after it has
been completed and signed by the exporter himself or his authorised agent. While certifying Form 'E',
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealers should ensure that exporters give only one address in Form 'E'. After the form is
certified by the Authorised Dealer, it should be submitted to the Customs/Postal authorities at the time
of shipment alongwith the shipping bill. The Customs authorities will detach the original copy and after
filling in the portion relating to them and affixing their seal and signature thereon forward it to the
State Bank. The Customs authorities will return the duplicate, triplicate and quadruplicate copies to the
exporter or his authorised agent who will retain the quadruplicate for his own record and submit the
duplicate and triplicate copies to the Authorised Dealer alongwith the shipping documents within 14
days from the date of shipment. The Authorised Dealer will forward the triplicate copies of the export
forms to the State Bank alongwith the monthly returns in which realisation of export proceeds is
reported, retaining the duplicate for his record. In cases where receipts of export proceeds are
reported by an Authorised Dealer in respect of exporters residing in the jurisdiction of an area office of
Exchange Policy Department other than that to which the returns are being submitted, separate area-
wise schedules A-1/A-2 with one additional copy will be prepared and submitted to the Exchange
Policy Department. The name of the area office of Exchange Policy Department to which the schedules
pertain will be prominently indicated on top thereof.
All shipping documents covering goods exported from Pakistan and declared on Form 'E' must
be passed through the medium of an Authorised Dealer within 14 days from the date of shipment. The
exporter must submit the duplicate (bearing Customs seal and signature of Customs Officials with Code
number) and triplicate copies of Form 'E' alongwith the shipping documents, invoices etc., to the
Authorised Dealer who had certified the Form 'E'. An extra copy of the shipper's invoice must be
attached to the triplicate copy of the Form 'E'. In the event of payment being received through an
Authorised Dealer other than the one who had certified the export form, the Authorised Dealer
negotiating or collecting the export documents should convey the particulars of the export form to the
Authorised Dealer which had originally certified the export form to enable the latter to make a suitable
note in the relative register.
On receipt of the bill of lading/airway bill/railway receipt etc., alongwith the Form 'E' and the
export documents, the Authorised Dealers should compare the bills and/or documents with the relative
export form and satisfy themselves that they conform in all respects to the declarations made on the
relative export forms and the amount of the bills and invoices is not less than the value declared on
them. In the case of those commodities which are subject to Export Price Check (EPC) procedure, the
invoice should also be compared with the EPC form approved/registered by the relevant authority, to
ensure that the quantity, quality, value, destination and terms of sale/payment shown therein agree
with those declared on the EPC form, and the quantity and value should be endorsed on the reverse of
the EPC form. All such cases where the Authorised Dealers consider that the value declared to the
Customs and accepted by them does not represent the true value of the goods should be promptly
reported to the State Bank. The Authorised Dealers may, however, accept bills/documents for
negotiation/ collection if the difference between the value stated on the relative export form and the
amount of the bill/invoice represents legitimate adjustments on account of short weight or actual
freight and other items of similar nature. Details of such adjustments must be given on the relative
export forms and must be authenticated by the Authorised Dealers under their stamp and signature.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
In the case of commodities export of which is permissible only on receipt of advance payment
or irrevocable letter of credit, shipments will be allowed by the Customs only on the basis of the
certificate of the Authorised Dealer on the export forms to the effect that either advance payment or
irrevocable letter of credit has been received covering export of the goods mentioned on the export
form.
19. Special Requirements for Export of Wool and other Commodities subject to Grading
Scheme.
(i) Under the Wool Grading Scheme of the Government of Pakistan every exporter of wool is
required to obtain a test report from the Government Test House for all shipments of wool intended for
export whether on firm contract or on account basis. In all such cases the exporter of wool is required
to forward to the State Bank through an Authorised Dealer a copy of the test report of the Wool Test
House duly initialed by the Customs alongwith the invoice and triplicate copy of the relative export
form. In the case of firm sales, the exporters should also mention in the invoice:
Sale of wool on consignment basis is required to be made only by public auction through
recognized Auction Houses abroad. Account Sale from these recognized Auction Houses should be
forwarded to the State Bank alongwith the relative triplicate copy of the export form.
(ii) The procedure governing other commodities which may, in future, be subjected to Grading
Scheme will be notified to Authorised Dealers separately.
(i) If it is customary in any particular trade for exporters to draw bills for only a percentage of the
invoice value and to receive the balance after arrival of the goods at destination, Authorised Dealers may
negotiate/collect bills in the part amount provided they obtain an undertaking from the exporters that
they will realize the balance within the prescribed period. Authorised Dealers should report such part
receipts on “Form 'E' not attached Voucher" on Schedule 'A-2'. It is the responsibility of the Authorised
Dealers to follow up each such case and to ensure that the balance amount is also realised within the
prescribed period. This exemption will not, however, apply in the case of shipments of those goods which
are subject to either 100% advance remittance or to the opening of irrevocable letter of credit for the full
amount of the export.
(ii) When a part of the invoice value has been received in advance by the shippers, the
Authorised Dealers when negotiating/collecting documents for the balance should certify on the
triplicate copy of the export form that part of the amount had been received by them in advance
quoting reference to the return in which the receipt was reported on an "Advance Payment Voucher"
(Chapter XXII).
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(iii) In both the above cases the triplicate copy of the export form should be kept outstanding
by the Authorised Dealer and submitted to the State Bank only after the full value of the export has
been received.
Where a portion of a consignment is short shipped and the exporter consequently draws a bill
or prepares an invoice for a quantity less than that declared on the relative export form, he should
produce a notice of short shipment on the prescribed form duly certified by the Customs alongwith the
shipping documents. In such cases, Authorised Dealers should negotiate/collect the shipping
documents on the basis of short shipment notice. The Authorised Dealer will forward the short
shipment notice to the State Bank alongwith triplicate copy of 'E' form while reporting the realisation of
full value of the goods shipped. If the exporter fails to produce the short shipment notice alongwith the
export documents, the Authorised Dealer may negotiate/ accept the documents for collection but
report full particulars of the case to the State Bank. The Authorised Dealer should, however, continue
to follow up the case with the exporter for submission of short shipment notice.
(i) Where a shipment to be made by a particular vessel is entirely shut-out and reshipped by
another vessel, the exporter should apply on the prescribed form in duplicate to the Customs for
permission to alter the name of the vessel on the relative export form and the shipping bill.
(ii) Where a shipment is entirely shut-out and is not being reshipped immediately by another
vessel, the exporter should give a notice to the Customs in the prescribed form in duplicate. It will be
the responsibility of the exporter concerned to produce to the Authorised Dealer who had certified the
export form, a copy of the shut-out notice duly certified by the Customs within 21 days from the date
of certification of the export form. On receipt of the shut-out notice, the Authorised Dealer should treat
the relative export forms as cancelled and forward the shut-out notice to the State Bank.
(i) If shipments from Pakistan are lost in transit for which payment has not already been
received, the Authorised Dealers must see that an insurance claim is made immediately the loss is
known. The triplicate copy of the relative export form should be endorsed with the narration "Shipment
Lost" under the stamp and signature of the Authorised Dealer and sent to the State Bank under a
separate covering letter giving the following particulars and bearing running serial number:
(a) Name of the insurance company with which goods were insured.
(ii) The Authorised Dealer who had certified the export form should pursue the matter with the
shipper and ensure that in each case the exporter has received the insurance claim and produces
encashment certificate, in cases where claims are paid in foreign currencies and Rupee payment
certificate where settlements are made in Rupees. These certificates should be forwarded by the
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealer to the State Bank giving reference of relative export forms.
i) In case of remittance received in advance for goods to be exported from Pakistan, Authorised
Dealers should obtain a certificate in duplicate from the beneficiary on the Advance Payment Voucher
(Appendix V-18) declaring the particulars of the intended export, before disbursing the amount to him.
Both copies of the Advance Payment Voucher shall be authenticated by the Authorised Dealer. The
original shall be surrendered to State Bank with the relative Schedule A-2, while the duplicate shall be
returned to the exporter for production at the time of certification of Form 'E'. The Authorised Dealer
which has disbursed the amount, shall ensure that Form 'E' is certified for export in accordance with
the declaration made on the Advance Payment Voucher within a period of one year of receipt of
advance payment and particulars of Form(s) 'E' viz. date of certification, value for which 'E' Forms
certified and progressive un-utilised balance (where more than one Forms 'E' are certified) shall be
endorsed on the duplicate copy of the Advance Payment Voucher. The triplicate copy of the 'E' Form
will be surrendered to the State Bank under a covering letter alongwith a photocopy of the Advance
Payment Voucher and the invoice.
ii) In case of payments received for export of fresh fruits/vegetables, it would be in order for
the Authorised Dealers to certify 'E' Forms against Advance Payment received, even if the detailed
particulars of the 'Goods', their 'Quality' and 'Invoice Value' have not been filled in, provided the broad
description i.e. ‘Fresh Fruits’, ‘Fresh Vegetables’, or ‘Fresh Fruits/Vegetables' is declared in the relevant
column. While certifying the 'E' Form, the following remarks would be added by the Authorised
Dealers:-
'This form has been certified against the outstanding balance of ___________ (Amount) out of the
advance payment of __________ (Amount) received on __________ (Date)’.
There is no objection to the use of one ‘E’ form for export of both fresh fruits and vegetables
if these goods form a single consignment. At the time of shipment, the exporter will fill in the required
particulars in all copies of the 'E' Form and submit the duplicate and triplicate copies to the Authorised
Dealer alongwith the shipping documents and an invoice. The Authorised Dealer will compare the
details of the 'Goods', 'Quantity' and 'Invoice Value' and process the case as indicated in sub-para (i).
In case where payment for goods to be exported is made out of foreign exchange (excluding foreign
currency notes) brought from abroad by a purchaser on person, the following procedure will be
followed:-
i) The seller (exporter) will arrange the encashment of foreign exchange (excluding foreign currency
notes) brought in by the foreign buyer with a bank in Pakistan.
ii) The Authorised Dealer while encashing foreign exchange will obtain an application in the prescribed
form (Appendix V-19) from the foreign buyer and get the ‘Advance Payment Voucher’ completed by
the seller.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
iii) The Rupee proceeds will be credited to the account of the seller, if one is maintained with the
encashing bank, or passed on to the bank with whom the seller maintains his account for credit
thereto. Thereafter the Authorised Dealer will make out the prescribed certificate (Appendix V- 20).
iv) While reporting the receipt of foreign exchange as advance payment for export on Schedule A-2, the
Authorised Dealer will attach the application and certificate (Appendices V-19 and V-20) with the
“Advance Payment Voucher”.
26. Export on D.A./T.R. Basis - Non-Payment by Foreign Buyer.
In case of exports on firm contract on D.A. or T.R. basis, Authorised Dealers, before certifying
the export form, should ensure that the foreign buyer is of sound financial standing and enjoys good
repute. Doubtful cases should be referred to the State Bank for instructions. Despite aforesaid
precaution, if a foreign buyer refuses to accept the goods, the exporter should either make immediate
arrangements for shipping the goods back to Pakistan or alternate buyer found with the approval of
the State Bank. However, prior approval of the State Bank will not be necessary in cases where the
consignment initially refused is taken up finally by the original consignee or an alternate buyer found
provided that payment for the consignment is not less than 90% of its original value minus actual
demurrage charges, if any. In those cases where the foreign buyers default in making payment after
taking delivery of the goods against their acceptance of the bill or T.R., Authorised Dealers shall
consider the possibility of initiating legal action against the foreign buyers for recovery of export
proceeds in consultation with the State Bank. To this end, Authorised Dealers should make
arrangements for obtaining a suitable undertaking from the exporters at the time of certification of the
Form 'E' for firm sales on D.A. or T.R. basis so that there is no hitch in initiating legal action in those
cases where the foreign buyers have defaulted.
In case of loss of original export realisation certificate, the State Bank on application would
authorise issuance of duplicate thereof on the basis of undertaking given by the Authorised Dealer in
the prescribed form (Appendix V-22). The word "Duplicate" will be prominently marked in indelible ink
at the top of such certificates.
(i) Carrier companies will not accept payment of freight in Rupees on cargo shipped on C&F or
CIF basis unless the exporter produces to them a certificate from an Authorised Dealer in the form
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
given below:
(ii) Before issuing the above certificate, Authorised Dealer will invariably endorse the relative
'E' form in the following manner:
"Certified that documents in respect of the shipment under this form shall be negotiated/
accepted only when these are drawn on C&F or CIF and not on FOB basis."
The carrier companies will invariably submit to the Authorised Dealer through whom
remittance of surplus freight collection is desired to be made with the freight manifests the aforesaid
bank's certificates alongwith the relative bills of lading which should be arranged according to the
entries appearing in the freight manifest.
(i) The State Bank has prescribed the period within which full foreign exchange value of the
exports must be realised. Non-realisation or delay in realisation of the export proceeds without the
prior permission of the State Bank constitutes an offence and renders the exporters liable to action
under the Act.
(ii) To enable the State Bank to review the position of all outstanding export bills, the
Head/Principal Offices of Authorised Dealers will furnish to the State Bank every month the following
statements:
(a) Statement showing the total figures of all export bills outstanding (including partly unrealised)
relating to all their branches, at the end of each month in the prescribed form (Appendix V-15).
(b) Statement in the prescribed form (Appendix V-16) containing particulars of those export bills which
have become overdue during the month under report. This statement will be prepared in respect of
Authorised Dealer's branches according to the area office of the Exchange Policy Department given in
para 4 of Chapter 1 and will be submitted in duplicate for each area separately. The outstanding export
bills pertaining to each exporter should be listed in a sequence with exporter-wise totals and the grand
total given at the end. However, the statement for the month of June each year should show
particulars of all overdue export bills as on 30th June.
(c) Statement in Appendix V-17 showing particulars of those cases which were reported by Authorised
Dealers as overdue in the previous statements but the items are deleted from their books during the
month under report either due to realisation of the proceeds or under instructions from the State
Bank.
The above statements in Appendices V-15, V-16 and V-17 should reach the Exchange Policy
Department (Central & Statistics Section), State Bank of Pakistan, Central Directorate, Karachi by the
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
15th of the month following that to which they relate. It will be the responsibility of the Authorised
Dealers to see that the above statements are submitted to the State Bank on due dates and that all
cases of exports which become overdue are invariably incorporated in these statements and that there
is no omission in this regard. The statements in forms V-16 and V-17 will additionally be submitted on
floppy diskettes.
Export of gold jewellery/precious and semi-precious stones will be allowed in accordance with
the procedure notified by the Government of Pakistan and the instructions issued by the State Bank
from time to time.
Maximum
rate of
commission
etc.
Upto 33
( Books, journals 1/3 %
a and magazines.
)
Engineering Upto 10
( goods (Electrical %
b and Non-
) electrical).
Upto 2
( Cotton. %
d
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Upto
( All other goods 6%
e except cement.
)
Cases not covered by the above instructions should be referred to State Bank with full facts and
documentary evidence necessitating the payment of commission at a higher rate.
(ii) Authorised Dealers can allow payment of commission etc., upto the above extent without the
prior approval of the State Bank as under after satisfying themselves that the payment is in conformity with
the relative agreement between the exporter and the buyer/agent abroad:
(a) By deduction from the invoices where payment is to be made to the foreign buyers themselves. In
such cases the net amount realised will only be reported as "Purchase".
(b) By instructing the negotiating bank abroad that the amount of commission etc., may be paid by
them to the agents direct out of the proceeds of the bill. In such cases the Authorised Dealers should
report the full export proceeds of the bill as "Purchase" and the amount of commission should be
reported as "Sale".
(c) By remittances from Pakistan, when the full export proceeds are received within ninety days of the
receipt of export proceeds. The Authorised Dealers should report the full export proceeds of the bill as
"Purchase" and the amount of commission remitted should be reported as "Sale".
Where remittance is not made as provided herein, approval of the State Bank in accordance
with the provisions of paragraph 7 of Chapter XIV shall be obtained. It should, however, be noted that
in the case of exports under special trading agreements, commission is payable only through the
special accounts opened for settlement of related transactions.
(iii) In cases where the exporter is not required to pay commission or where he is required to
pay an amount less than the maximum permissible limits, such amounts of commission/ differential
not exceeding 6% of the FOB value of goods realised can be retained in foreign currency account with
Authorised Dealers in Pakistan. The funds held in such foreign currency accounts can be used by the
exporters for promotional publicity, collection of commercial intelligence, purchase of designs/patterns,
market studies, bonafide export claims and shortfall in realisation of export proceeds, without any
approval from the State Bank. The foreign currency accounts so opened will be fed exclusively with the
amount of commission on exports and no other deposits, whatsoever the nature, will be accepted for
credit to such foreign currency accounts. This facility is also available where export proceeds are
realised under ACU Arrangement.
(iv) ‘Physicians’ Free Sample’ may be supplied alongwith consignments of drugs and medicines
being exported by the pharmaceutical companies, upto the extent agreed to between exporters and
foreign buyers/agents.
Exporters of services such as Financial Services, Wholesale Distribution and Retail Trade,
Transportation, Storage and Communications, Tele-communication Services, Medical Services,
Educational Services, Engineering Services, Real Estate Development, Hotel and Tourism/Tourism
Related Services, Technical Testing Facilities and Consultancy Services etc. are authorised to retain
35% of their net foreign exchange earnings in foreign currency accounts with Authorised Dealers in
Pakistan. The Authorised Dealers should ensure that such funds are utilized only for payment of
commission/discount and for meeting other expenses such as promotional publicity, foreign
consultant’s fee etc.
Those exporters who post at least 10% growth in their net foreign exchange earnings in
terms of US dollar over the last year’s export performance may be allowed by the State Bank to retain
50% of their additional export earnings in their foreign currency account maintained with Authorised
Dealers in Pakistan. For claiming this facility, the Exporter/Group will work out on aggregate basis in
the context of companies/firms having common Directors/Partners/individual company owned by the
single owner having substantial equity, and will prepare a Bank-wise statement in the prescribed form
(Appendix V-23 A) showing the performance of previous financial year and current financial year. They
are also required to submit a consolidated statement in the prescribed form (Appendix V-23 B) to the
Exchange Policy Department alongwith the ‘performance’ in original for issuance of formal permission
to the exporter to retain 50% of their additional export earnings in their foreign currency account from
their future export earnings in the designated bank. This facility will be available in addition to the one
available in terms of paragraph 32 (iii) ibid.
(i) It is permissible for private parties in Pakistan to enter into Commodity Exchange
Arrangement (CEA) with foreign parties (including undertakings controlled by foreign governments and
public sector agencies but excluding foreign governments). The Ministry of Commerce will prescribe,
from time to time, a negative list of commodities which cannot be exported under this scheme.
(ii) Applications for conducting transactions through Private Commodity Exchange Arrangement
may be submitted to the Exchange Policy Department (Policy Division, Central Directorate, Karachi)
through banks authorised to deal in foreign exchange, for approval alongwith copies of Export/Import
Registration Certificates, the past performance showing the value of exports made by the applicant in
each year during the preceding three financial years duly certified by their bankers, and the
recommendation of the bank whether in view of its past dealings, the party may be given permission
to conduct business through private Commodity Exchange Arrangement. Exporters having less than
three continuous years export performance would not be eligible. A copy of the agreement entered into
between the party in Pakistan and the counter-party in the concerned country abroad will also be
required to be submitted. In the case of both exports and imports by the party in Pakistan, the normal
laws, regulations, rules governing such export/import will continue to be applicable barring the
exemptions granted in this paragraph. The approvals will be given by the State Bank in the format
appearing at (Appendix V-23 C)
(iii) The party permitted to undertake business transactions under such arrangement will be
exempt from the existing requirement of drawing the documents of title to export cargo to the order of
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
an Authorised Dealer in case of export, and it can also receive the import documents from the counter-
party direct. Authorised Dealers shall also be required to certify Form “E” in the modified form as
indicated in the Appendix V-23 C. The parties will ensure that imports at least equal to the value of
exports are made by them within the period prescribed from time to time for repatriation of export
proceeds failing which the value of exports should be repatriated in convertible foreign currency within
the prescribed period.
(iv) The party will nominate an Authorised Dealer to maintain proforma account in its name for
the purpose of accounting the trade transactions. Separate proforma account will be maintained in
respect of each Commodity Exchange Arrangement. The concerned Authorised Dealer will be required
to submit a monthly statement in duplicate in the prescribed form (Appendix V- 23 D) in respect of
each CEA showing:-
a) the value of goods exported, alongwith the copies of invoice and duplicate ‘E’ Forms;
b) the value of goods imported from abroad alongwith copies of the invoices, non-negotiable copies of
bills of lading and photocopies of Exchange Control copy of Customs Bills of Entry evidencing import of
the goods into the country;
c) the opening and closing balances.
While forwarding the above statements to the State Bank of Pakistan, the Authorised Dealer will
code the items exported/imported.
(v) It is clarified that no forward exchange facility either for export or import transactions shall
be admissible. Export under the scheme is not eligible for the purpose of Export Refinance Scheme.
(vi) The withholding tax leviable on the export as per the Notifications issued by the Central
Board of Revenue from time to time will be recovered by the Authorised Dealers at the time of passing
the entry in the account in respect of exports from Pakistan.
(a) Merchants desirous of opening an Internet Merchant Account with a bank in Pakistan can open the
same either in local currency or in US$ for the purpose and, in addition to observance of normal
procedure for opening an account, will be required to submit a copy of their NTN Certificate to the
bank.
(d) Merchants intending to export goods/services must provide a copy of export registration
certificate from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(e) For the present, merchants desirous to undertake transactions outside Pakistan will be required
to submit ‘E’ forms for transactions of value less than US$ 500 each to their bank who shall submit the
same in consolidated form on monthly basis to SBP. Each ‘E’ form for the aforesaid accounts should
specifically indicate the words “E-Commerce” on the upper left corner.
(f) Banks shall recover charges for Internet Merchant Accounts strictly in accordance with Prudential
Regulation X. Any clarification with regard to bank charges on these accounts may be obtained from
the Director, Banking Supervision Department, SBP, CD, Karachi.
(g) The banks shall be responsible for reporting business through the Internet Merchant
Accounts to the Exchange Policy Department, State Bank of Pakistan on monthly basis as per proforma
appearing at Appendix V-24.
(h) The banks shall be responsible for reporting any suspected transactions against the laws
of the country, as per Prudential Regulation XII.
CHAPTER XIII
IMPORTS
1. Scope of Chapter.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
3. Registration of Importers.
4. Classification of Imports.
5. Terms of Imports.
12. Letters of Credit for Shipment by Country Craft, Motor Launch or Truck.
15. Prohibition to open Letters of Credit for Import from Certain Countries.
19. Imports by public sector agencies to which special allocation is made by the Government.
39. Foreign Currency Loans and Credits negotiated by the Government of Pakistan.
42. Deposit of Counter-Part Rupee Funds with the State Bank in respect of Foreign Non-Project
Commodity Loans.
1. Scope of Chapter.
This chapter sets out the regulations relating to sale of foreign exchange by the Authorised
Dealers against import of goods into Pakistan from any country.
3. Registration of Importers.
No person can import goods into Pakistan unless he is registered with the Export Promotion Bureau,
under the Registration (Importers and Exporters) Order, 1993 or exempted from the provisions of the
said Order. Authorised Dealers should, therefore, verify that the importer is registered or otherwise
exempted before any letter of credit is opened/contract registered or remittance made on his behalf for
imports into Pakistan. Authorised Dealers should ensure that the registration number of the importer is
invariably furnished on Form 'I'. Where the importer has been granted an exemption, a suitable
mention of this fact should be made on Form 'I'.
4. Classification of Imports.
Before establishing any letter of credit/registering contracts, Authorised Dealers should take all
precautions to ensure that the goods to be imported under it are clearly classifiable under the
Import Trade Control Schedules. In all cases of doubt, reference should be made either by the
Authorised Dealer or the importer direct to the Export Promotion Bureau. Failure to do so may
result in confiscation of goods or imposition of penalty for violating the provisions of the I.T.C.
regulations. In all such cases establishment of letter of credit/registration of contract and/or
making of remittance will also constitute infringement of the Foreign Exchange regulations.
5. Terms of Imports.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Subject to the provisions of this Chapter, imports can be made on FOB basis, CFR liner terms
basis or CFR free out basis. However, prior permission of the State Bank shall be obtained for
import of sugar and food grains (cereals) on CFR free out basis.
6. Modes of payments for imports.
Payment for imports may be made either through letters of credit, without letters of credit
against documents received for collection on the basis of registration of contracts, or as clean
remittance without opening of letter of credit and without registration of contract, as described in
detail in the subsequent paragraphs.
(ii) Authorised Dealers may also establish letters of credit providing for payment to the
beneficiary in a third country, not being the country of origin of goods or the country of shipment
provided they are satisfied that the payment to the beneficiary in a third country does not involve
extra expenditure. This facility is, however, not admissible for the import of goods which are
directly shipped from the ACU member countries.
(iii) Authorised Dealers may also establish letters of credit providing for shipment of goods
of the origin of more than one country provided the beneficiary remains the same and the
shipment does not involve extra expenditure.
(iv) Letters of credit established as per (i), (ii) and (iii) above should provide for payment
in any of the following manners:
(a) in any foreign currency.
(b) in Rupees for credit to the non-resident bank account of the country of the beneficiary or of the
country of origin/shipment of goods.
(c) Through ACU Clearing Arrangement where letters of credit envisage shipment directly from ACU
member countries.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(v) Opening of letters of credit providing for payment in any other manner requires prior
approval of the State Bank. Such requests giving full facts of the case alongwith their
recommendations should be forwarded by the Authorised Dealers to the State Bank.
(vi) It is not permissible to establish letters of credit providing for alternate countries of
origin of goods unless prior approval of the State Bank is obtained. Letters of credit providing for
goods of ‘European Union’ origin may, however, be opened.
(ii) If the import policy does not lay down any instruction in this regard, they may open
letters of credit for a period upto 12 months. However, in respect of machinery and mill-work
which are required to be specifically manufactured and the period of manufacture is more than 12
months, the letter of credit may be opened for a period upto 24 months. The validity of a letter of
credit may be extended by the Authorised Dealers for further periods not exceeding 12 months at
a time on payment of fee, if so prescribed in the import policy, provided there has been no change
in the Import Policy/exchange regulations in relation to the importability of the goods, the country
of origin/shipment, and the method of payment/and if approached within its validity. An expired
letter of credit may also be similarly revalidated subject to the same conditions.
(iii) Authorised Dealers are also allowed to amend the letters of credit envisaging change of
the beneficiary/goods at the request of the importers provided the importers approach the
Authorised Dealers for the change within the validity of the letter of credit and import of the goods
covered by the letters of credit are still permissible.
(iv) Authorised Dealers should also ensure to make endorsement of L/C opened for items (other
than freely importable items) whose import is subject to certain conditions, in the original
Category Pass Book. In case an importer opens letters of credit with more than one bank, the
Authorised Dealer holding the original category Pass Book will make out photostat copies thereof,
authenticate the same and furnish other concerned Authorised Dealers with it and will keep record
thereof.
(v) Authorised Dealers may also make other amendments in the letters of credit without
reference to the State Bank provided the amendments are not in conflict with the provisions of
this Manual or the Import Trade Control Regulations.
(vi) Letters of credit may provide for negotiation of documents within a period not
exceeding 30 days from the date of shipment.
receipts, post parcel receipts (or in the case of bulk import of books from U.K. against "Statement
of Dispatches" in lieu of post parcel receipts) showing dispatch of goods to a place in Pakistan.
Sea-way bills should not be accepted. All letters of credit must specify submission of invoices
certifying the country of origin in addition to any other certificate prescribed in the import policy.
Authorised Dealers will satisfy themselves that the ship is free from all encumbrances
and that the seller has a legal title to the ship.
12. Letters of Credit for Shipment by Country Craft, Motor Launch or Truck.
Ordinarily it is not permissible to open letters of credit providing for shipment by means of country
craft, motor launch or truck except by public sector agencies or by well established and reputable
firms in the private sector, provided in the latter case the Authorised Dealers are satisfied about
their financial and business integrity and they have no doubt that the goods covered by such
letters of credit will be received in Pakistan.
In the case of other importers in the private sector, letters of credit for import of goods by means
of country craft, motor launch or truck may be opened by the Authorised Dealers subject to the
following condition:
(i) The supplier abroad furnishes guarantee of a bank in the country of export for an equivalent
amount to the effect that should the goods be lost or damaged or pilfered in transit, the above
guarantee can be invoked and the amount remitted against the letters of credit recovered.
(ii) Alternatively, the letter of credit provides that payment will be made to the foreign suppliers after
the goods have been received and cleared by the Customs in Pakistan.
In respect of importers in the private sector who are unable to fulfill the conditions at (i) and (ii)
above, the Authorised Dealers should refer their cases to the State Bank with full particulars.
15. Prohibition to open Letters of Credit for Import from Certain Countries.
It is not permissible to open letters of credit for imports into Pakistan in favour of beneficiaries in
Israel or of goods originating from that country.
(i) The importer will submit a copy of the contract/purchase order/proforma invoice/indent etc. to the
Authorised Dealer for registration.
(ii) The Authorised Dealer registering the contract etc. will issue to the importer, a registration
certificate in the format appearing at Appendix V-25.
(iii) In case the documents covering imports are received by the branch of the Authorised Dealer
which had registered the contract/purchase order/indent/proforma invoice, directly from the
bankers of the suppliers abroad, the remittance may be effected in terms of the instructions laid
down in paragraph 23 (i) of this chapter provided the documents conform to the terms of the
relative contract/purchase order/indent or proforma invoice.
(iv) In case the shipping documents are received by the importers directly, or by the Authorised Dealer
from the overseas supplier instead of the bankers of the suppliers, remittance should be made in
accordance with the instructions contained in para 23 (ii) of this chapter.
(v) In case of imports from ACU member countries, remittances will be effected through ACU Clearing
Arrangements.
(vi) Forward cover will be available to the importers in accordance with the terms and conditions laid
down in Chapter IV of this Manual.
(vii) Authorised Dealers will incorporate the figures of the contracts registered by them/ remittances
made thereagainst in the statements as per appendices V-131, V-132 V-133 and V-134 (para 15-
Chapter XXII).
produce invoices and bills of lading/airway bill within a period of four months from the date of
advance payment. The Authorised Dealers will pursue the matter with the importers and report
those cases to the area office of the Exchange Policy Department where the requisite documents
are not produced within the prescribed time limit. In cases where remittances are made after
receipt of goods in Pakistan, the registered importers can approach the Authorised Dealers for
remittance on the basis of invoices and original bills of lading or airway bill. The Authorised
Dealers have general permission to make advance payments or arrange remittances against the
prescribed documents on receipt of goods in Pakistan.
19. Imports by public sector agencies to which special allocation is made by the
Government.
Public Sector agencies like WAPDA, Karachi Electric Supply Corporation Limited, Pakistan
State Oil Co. Ltd., OGDC, etc. which are allocated foreign exchange for their import requirement
or the private parties who are allowed to import on Defence/Railway's account shall make
applications to the area Exchange Policy offices of State Bank of Pakistan for permission to get the
contracts registered with the Authorised Dealer/open letters of credit, on Appendix V- 26.
Authorised Dealers will register contract/open letter of credit in these cases on the basis of
clearance issued by State Bank on Appendix V- 26.
Authorised Dealers can make remittance of the following bank charges on account of imports. The
particulars of the charges should be specifically mentioned on the relevant forms.
Remittances of bank charges other than the items mentioned above in respect of imports will be
subject to the prior approval of the State Bank.
In those cases where the original drawee dishonors the bill and the foreign shipper or his local
agent finds another buyer, the Authorised Dealers may make remittance not exceeding the value
of such bills without the prior permission of the State Bank if there are no restrictions in the
import policy issued by Ministry of Commerce.
Authorised Dealers may allow remittance of the value of imports made in contravention of the
import policy if the Federal Government has condoned the contravention and the Customs have
released the goods. Such remittance may be allowed on submission of the invoice, bill of lading
and Exchange Control copy of Customs Bill of Entry.
(i) Authorised Dealers may approve, on behalf of the State Bank, applications for
remittance against imports into Pakistan provided the documents covering imports, whether under
letters of credit or otherwise, are received through them and the conditions set out in this chapter
are complied with. The relative Form 'I' should be certified accordingly when reporting the sale to
the State Bank. In the case of imports by post, Authorised Dealers may make remittances without
the prior approval of the State Bank, only if the post parcels are addressed directly to them. In
cases, where the parcels are addressed direct to the individuals or care of the Authorised Dealers,
applications should be forwarded to the State Bank for prior approval. Authorised Dealers should
invariably attach a copy of the relative invoice with the original or quadruplicate 'I' Form, as the
case may be, submitted by them to the State Bank with their monthly return of sale in terms of
para 33 of this chapter.
(ii) Where the shipping documents are received by the importers directly, or by the
Authorised Dealer from the overseas supplier instead of the bankers of the suppliers, remittance
should be approved only after the goods have been cleared from the Customs and the Exchange
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Control copy of Bill of Entry or Customs certified invoices in the case of imports by post, relative
invoices, Non-negotiable copies of the Bill of Lading/Airway Bill/Railway Receipt/Truck Receipt etc.
and 'I' Form duly completed and signed have been submitted.
(i) The importers desiring to make imports on FOB basis will get the letters of credit
opened/contracts for imports on consignment basis registered through/with their bankers
provided the importers fulfill other instructions issued by the Government of Pakistan/State Bank
of Pakistan with respect to imports.
(ii) The shipping lines/airlines will obviously issue Bills of Lading/Airways Bills in
connection with FOB imports on "Freight to Collect" basis. As and when freight is required to be
paid in Pakistan rupees, the importers will approach the Authorised Dealers who had opened letter
of credit/registered the contract for import on consignment basis alongwith a copy of Bill of
Lading/Airway Bill indicating the amount of freight payable together with the freight invoice issued
by the carrier, where available, for issuance of a certificate in the format appearing at Appendix V-
27 which will bear the name/address of the issuing Authorised Dealer and a running serial
number.
(iii) The importers will then pay the freight amount to the carriers in Pakistan rupees and
will also surrender the "certificate" referred to in the preceding sub-para to the concerned carrier.
(iv) Airlines/shipping companies and their agents will not accept freight on FOB imports
without Authorised Dealers' certificate mentioned in sub-para (ii) above. The airlines/shipping
companies will invariably attach the said "certificate" (Appendix V-27) in original alongwith the
applications to be made for allowing remittance of surplus freight collections.
In the case of imports by the public sector on FOB basis the carriers should not accept
freight in Rupees without the approval of the State Bank. Approval will be given by the State Bank
after charging the full amount of the freight to the foreign exchange allocation of the respective
Government/Semi-Government agency. While applying for approval, the carrier company will
produce with the application a letter in the prescribed form (Appendix V-28) from the concerned
Department/Agency authorising the State Bank to debit its foreign exchange allocation with the
freight amount. As an exception, it will be in order for the carriers to accept freight in Rupees on
account of F.O.B. imports by the Ministry of Defence only subject to post-facto approval.
Application for permission to pay freight in Rupees in respect of imports by the Ministry of Defence
will be made by the Controller of Military/Naval/Air Force Accounts in triplicate in the above
proforma. Approval will be accorded by the State Bank on the original copy of the application with
the following narration.
While the triplicate copy of the application will be retained by the State Bank, the original and
duplicate will be returned to the Controller of Military/Naval/Air Force Accounts. The latter will
furnish the original copy to the carrier concerned.
As an exception to the provision of paragraph 25 ibid it will be in order for the PNSC and
PIA to accept freight in Pak Rupees on FOB imports by the Public Sector agencies
(Ministries/Departments, autonomous and semi-autonomous public sector organizations) provided
the goods are carried by them on freight to pay basis. PIA will, however, accept cargo only for the
sectors covered by it. Authorised Dealer's Certificate mentioned in Para 24 (ii) will not be required
to be produced to PNSC/PIA by the importing agencies.
Airlines/shipping companies can accept freight in Rupees upto Rs. 2,000/- per year per registered
importer for import of bonafide trade samples. While accepting freight the airlines/shipping
companies should obtain a certificate from the registered importer to the effect that the total
amount of freight already paid including the amount to be paid during the calendar year on
account of trade samples received by him, does not exceed the limit of Rs. 2,000/- The certificate
should be submitted by the airlines/shipping companies alongwith their application for remittance
in which the collection of such freight is included.
Certain categories of imports are exempted from the Import Trade Control Regulations.
For example, in transit imports, imports by diplomatic officials in Pakistan, imports in bond,
imports of gift parcels upto the exempted limit and imports by private parties for their personal
use upto prescribed limits. Authorised Dealers should not allow any remittance against such
imports except as laid down in Chapter XVI.
(i) PICIC/NDLC can open letters of credit under the foreign currency lines of credit
contracted by them with the approval of the Government of Pakistan, and the foreign currency
loans contracted by the Government of Pakistan and placed at their disposal for on-lending to
their customers.
(ii) In all the cases of imports against letters of credit issued by PICIC/NDLC, it should be
ensured that import is made on C&F basis unless shipment is made on Pak flag vessels and in that
case letters of credit may provide for imports on FOB basis on payment of freight in Pakistan
rupees.
(i) State Bank may consider applications for advance remittance against imports where
the goods are of a specialized or capital nature. Applications for such advance remittance should
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
be made to the State Bank on Form 'I' and should be accompanied by the original contract (with a
spare copy) entered into between the importer and the foreign manufacturer or supplier. The
applications should also be supported by an undertaking in the prescribed form (Appendix V-29)
duly countersigned by the Authorised Dealer. In special cases advance remittance may be allowed
upto 33 1/3% of the estimated C & F value of the total quantity of the goods to be imported.
(ii) In the case of import of books and subscription to journals and magazines etc., by
Government and Semi-Government agencies, Authorised Dealers may allow direct advance
remittance upto the amount of the relative letter of credit/contract. In the case of subscription to
magazines/journals etc., there will be no Customs Bill of Entry/certified invoice. In such cases,
Authorised Dealers will attach the relative debit note with the duplicate of Form ‘I’ giving on both
a suitable remark indicating that the remittance has been allowed in advance. As regards import
of books, there will be usual Customs Bill of Entry/certified invoice which will be processed in the
normal course.
(iii) Authorised Dealers may allow advance remittances for import of books, journals and
magazines etc., by commercial importers upto the amount of relative proforma invoices. Since
magazines and journals are imported in bulk by the commercial importers in their own names,
there will be usual Bills of Entry/certified invoices as in the case of import of books.
(ii) In the case of US AID Loans, PL-480 and KFW (German) Loans, the State Bank
designates banks in U.S.A. and West Germany also for claiming payment or reimbursement from
the loan/aid giving agencies. Similar designation of banks in the country of other aid giving
agencies may also be made, if necessary, under the aid/loan arrangements.
(i) Authorised Dealers may recover from the importers following charges:-
(a) Bank charges specified in and remittable under the provisions of para 20 of this chapter and the
amount of interest, where authorised under loans like US AID Loans and others, payable to the
foreign banks handling the transactions at the other end. The amounts of bank charges and
interest as mentioned above may be remitted to the foreign banks without the prior approval of
the State Bank subject to report on Form 'M'.
(b) Their own commission at rates allowed by the Banking Supervision Department from time to time,
if applicable.
(ii) Authorised Dealers may recover commission at the following rates on letters of credit
covering imports by the Government routed through State Bank:
(a) In respect of cash/reimbursable loans/barters expressed in U.S. Dollar or any other foreign
currency including L/Cs under A.C.U. arrangement:
aa) 1/8 % if the value of the letter of credit is less than Rs.250,000/-
(b) In respect of non-reimbursable credits and Rupee Barters: 3/8 % irrespective of the value of the
letter of credit.
The above charges are inclusive of foreign correspondents charges. However, in addition to the
above, Authorised Dealers may recover actual cable/telex charges where L/Cs are desired to be
established through cable/telex and confirmation charges of foreign bank if foreign bank's
confirmation is also to be added on opener's request.
(i) U.S. AID LOANS: After the signing of the loan agreement, U.S. AID, Washington
issues letters of commitment which indicate the salient features of the loan as also the names of
designated Pakistani and American banks. U.S. AID loans stipulate minimum monetary limits for
the opening of each letter of credit as well as the value of each shipment. They may, however,
issue one letter of commitment under each U. S. AID Loan. Goods are required to be shipped on
U.S./Pakistan flag vessels in accordance with the shipping requirements laid down in respect of
each loan. U.S. Liner Services are available on some ports from where shipments can be made
only on U.S. flag vessels. In cases U.S. flag vessels are not available on these ports, shipments
can be made on Pakistan flag vessels or on the vessels of any other country which is included in
the AID Geographic Code 941 after obtaining waiver from the U.S. AID. From ports where U.S.
Liner Services are not available, shipments can be made on Pakistan flag vessels or vessels of
other countries included in AID Geographic Code No.941. Two percent or ten percent of the freight
amount under U.S. AID Loans on 'Free-Out' and 'Non-Free-Out' basis respectively, which is not
financed by AID authorities, is paid from Pakistan's own resources.
(ii) PL-480 PROGRAMME: Major food items like wheat, soyabean oil, tobacco and non-
fat dry milk are imported under Public Law 480. Banks are not designated for import of wheat
which is directly handled by the Ministry of Food. For the remaining items, banks in Pakistan and
the U.S.A. are designated for handling imports. Payment to the suppliers is made directly by the
Commodity Credit Corporation (C.C.C.) of U.S.A. for which Procurement Authorisation (P.A) is
issued. Shipments are required to be made on Pakistan and U.S. flag vessels on 50:50 basis. In
the event of non-availability of U.S./Pakistan flag vessels, shipments can be made on vessels of
any other country at the discretion of Commodity Credit Corporation. In case of shipments by
Pakistan flag vessels, Pakistani Shipping Companies can accept payment of freight in Rupees
without approval of the State Bank. In case of shipment on U.S. flag vessels, permission of the
State Bank for opening of freight letter of credit/making remittance of freight is required in each
individual case.
(iii) I.D.A. CREDITS: Imports under I.D.A. Credits can be made from member countries of
I.B.R.D. (International Bank for Reconstruction and Development) and Switzerland. Shipment is
also required to be made on the vessels of member countries of I.B.R.D. and Switzerland. There
are different case procedures for payments under I.D.A. Credits.
(iv) OTHER LOANS AND CREDITS: In respect of loans and credits other than those
mentioned above, which are provided by various countries, specific instructions are issued by the
State Bank from time to time for handling imports and claiming reimbursements thereunder.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Foreign currency loans and credits negotiated by the Government of Pakistan with the
international institutions and other agencies are utilised for import of machinery, capital goods,
technical know-how, commodities etc. Such credits negotiated for import of machinery, capital
goods etc., are normally placed at the disposal of public sector agencies (who use it by opening
letters of credit through the banks designated by State Bank of Pakistan or by arranging direct
disbursement by the lending agency) and the Development Finance Institutions e.g. PICIC, NDLC
and IDBP who in turn disburse them to their constituents. The credits for import of commodities,
raw materials, spares etc., are normally disbursed through banks designated by the State Bank
against the allocations made by the Economic Affairs Division, Government of Pakistan. Any other
foreign currency credits negotiated privately would require approval of the Federal
Government/State Bank.
In respect of imports under Project loans, banks are also designated. Normally, Authorised Dealers are
advised to deliver shipping documents to the importing agencies free of payment.
In case of reimbursable loans and credits, imports are financed in the first instance from
Pakistan's own foreign exchange resources and reimbursement is obtained from the loan giving
agency. In some cases imports are also financed from Pakistan's cash foreign exchange resources
pending signing of the relevant loan agreement. As and when the loan agreement is signed,
reimbursement is to be sought expeditiously from the relevant Loan/Credit giving agency. The
procedures for obtaining reimbursement from the loan giving agencies are worked out on loan to
loan basis.
42. Deposit of Counter-Part Rupee Funds with the State Bank in respect of Foreign Non-
Project Commodity Loans.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
The designated Authorised Dealers will observe the following procedure for deposit of counter-part
Rupee funds:
(i) Appropriate Rupee amounts in respect of imports under all foreign non-project
commodity loans and credits on non-reimbursable basis will be deposited with the regional
office/branch of the State Bank within three working days of the receipt of documents by the
designated banks in Pakistan or within 10 days from the date of negotiation by the bank abroad,
whichever happens to be earlier, at the rate of exchange prevailing on the date of lodgement of
documents in cases where no forward exchange is booked. Where forward cover has been booked,
the booked rate is applied for the purpose of depositing Rupee funds.
(ii) The designated Authorised Dealers will submit, to the concerned area Chief Manager of
the State Bank, a statement of Rupee deposits at the time such deposits are made against foreign
non-project commodity loans and credits in the prescribed form (Appendix V-31). Copies of these
statements will also be sent to various Government agencies.
(ii) In those cases where the negotiating banks make payment to the suppliers under
reserve or guarantee due to minor discrepancies in documents, either the documents should be
sent back to the negotiating bank or the counterpart funds deposited with the State Bank within a
maximum period of one week from the date of the receipt of the documents. In case, however,
the designated bank in Pakistan chooses to retain the documents beyond the prescribed period of
one week, a statement of all such cases should be sent to the Director of Accounts, Economic
Affairs Division, Government of Pakistan, Islamabad and the concerned Chief Manager of the State
Bank showing the particulars of shipping documents and indicating names and addresses of the
importers, letters of credit numbers and dates, vessel, commodity and foreign currency amount
specifying the detailed reasons for not depositing the amount within the prescribed period of one
week. The cases in which deposits are made within a week need not be reported.
(iii) The designated Authorised Dealer is required to deposit counterpart funds with the
State Bank within the period specified in paragraph 42 ibid. The letters of credit opened by the
Authorised Dealers for imports under Aid/Loans and Credits should not, therefore, provide for
documents to be drawn on usance basis. Documents with usance clause if received by an
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealer will not be accepted by the State Bank as sufficient reason for waiver of fine on
account of delayed deposit of counterpart funds.
In case of loans and credits on reimbursable basis, the designated banks are required to
deposit funds in the State Bank's Account with the Federal Reserve Bank, New York or with such
other banks as may be specified from time to time. The deposits should be made immediately on
reimbursement by the foreign loan/credit giving agencies but not later than the date following that
on which reimbursement is received. Late deposits will be subject to payment of fine at rates
given in paragraph 43 ibid. The Authorised Dealers designated to open letters of credit for imports
under loans and credits should, therefore, make necessary arrangements in advance with their
correspondents abroad to effect the transfers within the stipulated period. Late receipt or non-
receipt of reimbursement advice by the designated banks in Pakistan would not be accepted as
sufficient reason for waiver of fine.
(i) Residents of Pakistan and firms and companies functioning in Pakistan are allowed to engage
themselves in three way merchanting trade through back-to-back letters of credit providing for
payment in convertible currency or advance payments excluding payments under
bilateral/multilateral accounts, in respect of the following commodities:
1. Crude Oil
2. Edible Oil
3. Wheat
4. Rubber
5. Cotton
6. Tea
7. Sugar
8. Fertilizer
Authorised Dealers are permitted to open letters of credit in favour of third country exporters
either against an irrevocable letter of credit on sight basis or against advance remittance in
convertible currency received from the ultimate importer subject to the following conditions:
a) The price differential includes intermediary's commission at not less than one percent, plus
actual charges incurred on account of opening of back-to-back letter of credit, buying and selling
rates differential etc.
d) No commission or any other claim of whatsoever nature will be allowed to be remitted from
Pakistan.
f) Goods will be shipped directly from the country of supply to the country of import.
g) No forward cover facility will be available for trade under this arrangement. However, if desired,
the intermediary Pakistani trader can open a "Special Foreign Currency Account" with an
Authorised Dealer in Pakistan for deposit of the proceeds of the letters of credit/advance
remittances received from the third country buyer pending (i) eventual payment to the third
country suppliers under the back-to-back letter of credit stipulating reimbursement to the third
country suppliers out of Special Foreign Currency Account and (ii) conversion into Pakistan rupees
of the amount left out after making payment to the third country supplier against back-to-back
letters of credit.
General permission has been accorded to the Authorised Dealers for opening and maintaining
Special Foreign Currency Accounts for merchanting trade which will be subject to the following
terms, conditions and the procedure:
aa) The account will be fed exclusively through remittances emanating either from the realisation of
proceeds under an irrevocable letter of credit opened by an overseas buyer for third country
goods or advance remittance made by such buyer for supply of third country goods.
bb) The account will be kept outside the scope of Foreign Currency Accounts Scheme as embodied in
paragraph 3 of Chapter VI of this Manual. In other words the foreign currency received in such
accounts will not be required to be surrendered to the State Bank. Authorised Dealers can hold
such foreign currency abroad in addition to the normal balances held abroad.
cc) Interest accruing on the balances held in the account will be converted into and paid in Pak
rupees.
dd) The exemption of interest income from levy of taxes etc. shall not be admissible.
After payment for import under the back-to-back letter of credit, the Authorised Dealer will
prepare a statement in the format appearing at Appendix V-32 matching the receipt and payment
for each merchanting transaction individually and will submit the same to the concerned area
office of the Exchange Policy Department. The reporting of inward and outward remittances would
be as indicated in the format appearing at Appendix V-33.
CHAPTER XIV
a) Exports from Pakistan made on C&F/CIF basis against Form ‘E’ duly certified by
Authorised Dealers on their letterheads in terms of para 29 of Chapter XII of the
Manual.
aa) Against Authorised Dealer’s certificate on form prescribed at Appendix V–27 in terms of
para 24 of Chapter XIII of the Manual.
bb) Against SBP’s approval for import on FOB basis in public sector in terms of para 25 of
Chapter XIII of the Manual.
cc) Against certificate of registered importers for freight on Import of Trade Sample not
exceeding Rs. 2000/- per year in terms of para 27 of Chapter XIII of the Manual.
c) Freight on personal effects/excess baggage in accordance with the provisions laid down
in paras 40(i) & 40(iii) of Chapter XVII of the Manual.
d) Freight on Export of Trade Sample and gift parcels in accordance with the procedure laid
down in para 40 (ii) of Chapter XVII of the Manual.
e) Passage money in accordance with the instructions laid down in Chapter XVII.
In all other cases prior approval of State Bank should be obtained before
collecting freight in Rupees. For this purpose, applications should be made to the State
Bank giving the nature of the transactions and the reasons why freight cannot be paid
in foreign currency.
of Chapter XII of the Manual provided the consignment is being dispatched against
Advance Payment or an irrevocable letter of credit which contains a provision for
issuance of document of title under Cargo Consolidation System and a certificate to this
effect issued by the Authorised Dealer on Appendix V-13 is produced.
a) A copy of F.P. Statement (Appendix V-34 for airlines and V-36 for shipping
companies).
c) A copy of each bill of lading/airway bill issued in respect of export on freight pre-paid
basis, alongwith Authorised Dealers certificates as stated in paragraph 1.
i) Authenticated copy of the charter party if the vessel calling at the ports in Pakistan
has been chartered by the principals of the shipping agents in Pakistan.
m) In the case of agents, a copy of the valid permission letter given by the Board of
Investment for acting on behalf of the foreign principal.
n) An undertaking to repatriate back to Pakistan, the amount found by the State Bank,
on post-facto checking, to have been remitted in excess of the entitlement.
ii) Authorised Dealers will allow remittance of surplus passage and freight
collections plus inward remittance, to the extent of amounts of passage and freight
actually realised less disbursements, refunds, and income tax paid/payable. No
remittance is to be allowed in excess of the balance available in the account, as it is not
permissible to make remittances out of borrowed funds.
iii) Authorised Dealers will retain all the documents mentioned in sub
paragraph (i) alongwith a photocopy of Form ‘M’ submitted by shipping
companies/shipping agents for on sight inspection by the Banking Inspection
Department. In the case of airlines or their G.S.As, the documents will be submitted to
the Joint Director, Operations Division, Exchange Policy Department, SBP, Karachi
within three working days from the date of remittance. The original Form ‘M’ shall be
submitted as usual through schedule E-4 while reporting the transaction in the monthly
Foreign Exchange Returns.
iv) Any irregularity detected and advised by the State Bank shall be
rectified by the concerned airline/GSA/shipping company/agent within ninety days or
the amount under objection will be repatriated or adjusted from subsequent remittance,
as applicable.
b) N.O.C. from the Insurance Association and National Insurance Company Limited about
the remittance of the amount of the general average.
Authorised Dealers may allow remittances on the basis of these documents and attach
the same with the ‘M’ form, while reporting the transactions in their monthly Foreign
Exchange Returns.
ii) Pending General Average Award, the Authorised Dealers may also issue
bank guarantees in favour of the General Average Adjusters on submission of the
information documents referred to from (a) to (e) above. Remittances under the
guarantees will, however, be allowed by them on production of General Average Award.
iii) In the case of exports from Pakistan, if general average is declared and if
the general average claim is paid by the overseas importer, the insurance company in
Pakistan, with whom the goods were insured prior to shipment from Pakistan may be
allowed to reimburse the amount to the overseas importer on production of the
following documents, which should be submitted to the State Bank as mentioned in sub-
para (i):
b) All shipping documents viz. a copy of the bill of lading, invoice, insurance policy etc.
c) Average deposit receipt duly endorsed by the overseas importer in favour of the
insurance company in Pakistan.
d) Letter of subrogation.
Pakistani shipping companies and airlines are required to submit to the State Bank a
monthly statement of their earnings and expenditure at foreign ports in the prescribed
forms (Appendices V-45 and V-46) supported by passage/freight manifest for receipts
and by vouchers in respect of payments. They can make disbursements in respect of
approved transactions only out of their receipts at foreign ports and they are under
obligation to regularly repatriate the excess collections, if any, to Pakistan and attach
the bank encashment certificates with the statement. In case the collections fall short
of the disbursements, the shipping companies/airlines should make an application to
the State Bank for remittance of the deficit or for meeting bonafide individual items of
disbursements like crew wages, bunkering charges, port dues, food charges etc.
Applications for repair of ships/aircrafts and purchase of durable stores other than food
provisions should, however, be routed through the Ministry of Communications in the
case of shipping companies and the Ministry of Defence in the case of airlines.
7. Export Claims.
(d) Correspondence in original exchanged between the shippers and the buyers. Original cables
should be produced if cable charges are included in the Debit Note.
(iii) COMMISSION (If not paid in terms of the authority delegated vide Chapter XII).
(c) Agreement regarding payment of Commission. Shippers should furnish a copy of the
Export Price Check (EPC) form registered with the relevant authority, if the goods are
subject to “Export Price Check” procedure. The form should show the rate of
commission.
b) Contract in original.
e) In case of claim for partial non-shipment, Proceeds Realisation Certificate for the
quantity shipped.
(v) INSPECTION FEE, ARBITRATION FEE, SURVEY AND ANALYSIS FEE, CONTROLLING
FEE, WEIGHING CHARGES ETC.
b) Debit Note.
c) Contract.
d) Correspondence.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Applications in respect of items (v), (vi) and (vii) may be approved by the Authorised
Dealers and the prescribed documents surrendered to the State Bank alongwith the
monthly Foreign Exchange Returns. Applications in respect of items (i), (ii), (iii) and
(iv) will, however, require approval from the State Bank.
i) In case of export of cotton only, Authorised Dealers may extend guarantees in favour
of overseas importers for payment of claim, provided the following conditions are
fulfilled:
a) Advance payment or confirmed and irrevocable letter of credit for hundred percent
value has been received in favour of the exporter.
b) The amount of the guarantee does not exceed 5% of the total invoice value covered
by the advance payment or confirmed and irrevocable letter of credit.
d) The guarantee is valid for a maximum period of 30 days after the last date of
discharge of cotton in the country of import.
ii) Authorised Dealers may also allow remittance of claims falling within the
terms of these guarantees provided the amount is fully covered by the Arbitration
Award of the respective association. While reporting these remittances to the State
Bank, the Authorised Dealers should enclose with the form 'M': -
Prior permission of the State Bank is required by persons or firms in Pakistan who wish
to acquire the services of agents abroad for any purpose other than export of goods
from Pakistan, whether on regular basis or otherwise. Applications for this purpose
should be made by letter giving full details of the nature and value of business
transacted in the past by the applicant, the existing arrangements and the nature of the
arrangements proposed to be made with the overseas agents.
(i) Royalty and Technical Fee in the Manufacturing Sector has been defined as
under:-
a) Definition of Royalty: Royalty is a fee paid by a local firm to the foreign collaborator
in consideration of “Licence to use the foreign manufacturers’ patent/brand name for
marketing the product(s).”
b) Definition of Technical Fee: It is a fee paid by the local firm to the foreign
collaborator in consideration of:-
NOTE:
No technical fee shall be allowed for simple conventional process goods which are being
produced in the country without foreign technical collaboration.
(a) The initial lump sum fee payable to the foreign investor/the party providing
technical expertise and/or allowing use of their brand name, should not exceed US$
100,000/- irrespective of the number of outlets under one franchise.
(b) A maximum of 5% remittance of net sales (excluding sales tax) in the food
sector may be allowed as Franchise Fee only for those items, which are core items of
the franchise and are the specialties of the trade name. The payment of such fees will
be allowed on monthly basis. No item will be eligible for twice payment of
Royalty/Franchise Fee. In other words, the payment of Royalty/Franchise Fee shall not
be admissible for those items whose franchise is not held by the food chains and/or
which are sold under some other brand name e.g. soft drinks etc.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
c) Payment of income tax supported by a certificate from the auditors of the paying firm.
In case it is claimed that the amount of Royalty/Franchise and Technical Fees is exempt
from levy of Pakistan taxes, the applicant should invariably produce a certificate to this
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
effect from the competent tax authority and attested copy of the said certificate should
be enclosed with the prescribed application to be sent alongwith other relevant
documents while reporting the transaction to the Exchange Policy Department.
(a) Copy of the service agreement entered into with the foreign firms.
(iii) It will be the exclusive responsibility of the Authorised Dealers to ensure that
income tax has been correctly deducted from the amount payable to the foreign
beneficiaries and paid to the income tax authorities or exemption certificate from the
income tax authorities is called and recorded with the Authorised Dealers.
(i) Remittances on account of items of the following nature may be allowed by the State
Bank:
(ii) Application on Form ‘M’ for such remittances should be submitted to the Joint Director
(Investment Division) through an Authorised Dealer alongwith the following:
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(c) NOC from the concerned authority (viz PTA/Pakistan Software Export Board).
a) Audited Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss Account of the branch(es) in Pakistan.
b) Tax provision made during the year for (a) the current year and (b) for the prior years
alongwith its computation.
c) A certificate from the auditors in Pakistan that tax provision made in the accounts is
sufficient to meet all tax liabilities in Pakistan, or copies of final assessment orders and
forms duly certified by the Income Tax Department.
d) Assessment orders for the previous years, if not submitted earlier to the State Bank.
e) Certificate from the auditors showing the liability for staff gratuity as at the close of
accounts and provision made there-against. If no provision has been made, reasons
thereof.
g) Amount charged/claimed on account of Head Office expenses for the current year (if
not separately shown in the accounts) and the basis of its calculation alongwith Head
Office expenses claimed/allowed by the Income Tax Authorities for the preceding 3
years.
i) Confirmation to the effect that the amount provided for classified assets is not less
than the amount required to be provided on the basis of the Prudential Regulations of
the State Bank.
j) Item-wise details of un-realised/accrued income credited to Profit & Loss Account for
the year and in the previous year.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
a) Audited Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss Account of the branch(es) in Pakistan.
b) Audited Consolidated Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss Account of the Head Office. If
they are not available at the time of making the applications, they should be submitted
subsequently.
d) Tax provision made during the year for (i) the current year and (ii) prior years
alongwith its computation.
e) A certificate from the auditors in Pakistan that tax provision in the accounts is
sufficient to meet all tax liabilities in Pakistan or copies of final assessment orders and
forms duly certified by the Income Tax Department.
g) Certificate from the auditors showing the liability for staff gratuity as at the close of
accounts and provision thereagainst. If no provision has been made, reasons thereof.
i) Amount charged/claimed on account of Head Office expenses for the current year (if
not separately shown in the accounts) and the basis of its calculation alongwith Head
Office expenses claimed/allowed by the Income Tax Authorities for the preceding 3
years.
j) Full particulars of additions, if any, made to fixed assets in Pakistan, during the
period and the source of funds utilized for financing such additions.
k) The extent to which the proposed remittance will require bank finance.
l) In case the applicant is applying for the first time, documentary evidence to the
satisfaction of the State Bank that the applicant firm was in existence and conducting
business operations in Pakistan prior to 3rd October, 1963. In respect of those branches
of foreign firms and companies which were established in Pakistan on or after 3rd
October, 1963, original or photocopy of the letter of the Investment Promotion
Bureau/Board of Investment, Government of Pakistan, granting them permission to
conduct business operations in Pakistan, should be submitted with the application
alongwith other documents.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(iii) A company other than a bank, insurance company, airline and shipping company
desiring to avail of the facility of making remittance of profit without prior approval of the
State Bank, may approach the Joint Director (Investment Division), Exchange Policy
Department, State Bank of Pakistan, Central Directorate, Karachi disclosing the name of its
banker through whom it would like to make remittance. The State Bank will authorise the
bank concerned to effect remittance of profit to the Head Office abroad of the company
subject to verification of the remittable amount in the manner to be prescribed by it. While
reporting such remittances, the designated Authorised Dealers will enclose all the relevant
documents with the relative Form ‘M’.
(ii) Each company which wants to avail of the facility of making remittance of
dividends without the prior approval of the State Bank, should advise the Joint Director
(Investment Division), Exchange Policy Department, State Bank of Pakistan, Karachi the
name of its bankers through whom it would like to make remittance. On receipt of
nomination of a bank from the company, the State Bank will authorise the bank
concerned to effect remittance of dividends, whether interim or final, to the non-
resident shareholders of the company without its prior approval.
a) that the shares are held by the non-residents (other than Indian nationals) under the
specific and/or general permission of the State Bank and are registered at their foreign
addresses,
b) that the shares in question were not acquired by the non-residents on the basis of
their undertaking that they will not claim remittance of dividend and,
c) that the application for remittance of dividend is net of Pakistan tax liability.
Authorised Dealers must also ensure that the auditor’s certificate to this effect on the
application is from a well-known firm of auditors.
(iv) The following documents must be seen by the designated Authorised Dealer
before allowing the remittance of dividends: -
a) Application in triplicate in the prescribed form (Appendix V-50) duly certified by the
company’s auditors. There will be one consolidated application in respect of dividends
due to all the non-resident shareholders. Where the company’s auditors have not
accepted the entitlement in respect of some shareholders, the application may be
certified with their reservation and entitlement of others released pending
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
b) Two certified copies of the audited Annual Profit & Loss Account and Balance Sheet of
the company concerned for the year to which the dividend application pertains or two
copies of interim Profit & Loss Account for the period to which interim dividend relates.
(v) While reporting remittances allowed by them under the above authority in
their monthly Exchange Returns, the Authorised Dealers will enclose with the relative
Form ‘M’ a copy of the supporting application (Appendix V-50) together with one copy
of audited Annual/Interim Profit and Loss Account and Balance Sheet and certified true
copy of the Directors’/ Shareholders’ resolution. In cases where shareholders are
resident of different countries and remittances are made in different currencies, the
remittances will be reported on different ‘M’ forms under the relative currency
statements. Reference to the relative monthly currency statements should be made in
column 10 of the application (Appendix V-50) against remittances made in different
currencies and the application alongwith its supporting documents should be attached
to any of the ‘M’ forms. Duplicate copy of the application form will be retained by the
Authorised Dealer concerned for its record.
(viii) Authorised Dealers should note that it is one of the conditions prescribed in
the Investment Policy that foreign investor may temporarily hold 100% shares in the
specified newly opened sectors for foreign investment, pending disinvestments of the
prescribed percent of investment to residents, subject to the condition that remittance
of dividend would be restricted to their investment upto 60% only. They should ensure
compliance with this restriction.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealers may allow remittances at actuals, without prior approval of the
State Bank, in respect of articles contributed by non-resident foreigners for publication
in Pakistani Newspapers or Magazines, provided a demand note from the non-resident
contributors is produced by the publishers of the article to the Authorised Dealers while
applying for remittance. Advance remittance may also be allowed subject to the
applicant’s undertaking to submit the requisite documents in due course.
(ii) Remittances on account of News Feature, News Picture, Syndication Services, Gambles,
Comics, Puzzles, Book Reviews etc.
Authorised Dealers may effect remittances, without prior approval of the State Bank, at
the request of the publishers of Newspapers and Magazines of repute having large
circulation or by local agents of the foreign beneficiaries in Pakistan on account of News
Feature Services, News Picture Services, Syndication Services, Gambles, Comics,
Puzzles, Book Reviews etc. published in Pakistan Newspapers and Magazines. While
effecting remittances, Authorised Dealers shall ensure the following:-
b) A formal letter of request for remittance has been received from the remitting agency in
Pakistan.
c) The invoices/demand notes etc. of the foreign beneficiaries are produced in original.
Authorised Dealers may allow remittances without prior approval of the State Bank, on
account of salary/remuneration as well as Telex/Telegram/Telefax/Telephone charges
in favour of correspondents of Pakistani newspapers posted abroad on production of
original demand notes/bills/vouchers.
(iii) Undertaking from the applicant concerned that he will produce relevant clippings
from the newspaper/magazine to them within a period not exceeding three months.
These clippings will be retained by the Authorised Dealers for inspection by State Bank’s
Inspectors.
While effecting the above remittances, Authorised Dealers will ensure that the
newspaper/magazine in which the advertisement is proposed to be inserted is of good
standing and repute and remittance is made only in the name of the concerned
newspaper/magazine. In cases of doubt, reference should be made to the State Bank
before effecting the remittance.
Authorised Dealers may, without prior approval of the State Bank, effect remittances to
their foreign correspondents etc., to cover payments due to them on account of bank
charges, cost of cables and other incidental charges arising in the normal course of
authorised business other than imports. All such remittances should be reported to the
State Bank on Form ‘M’. In cases where bank charges relating to exports are paid by the
Authorised Dealers to their foreign correspondents by deduction from the amount of the
export bills, they should report the full amount of the export bill as “Purchase” and
simultaneously report the deduction as “Sale”.
Authorised Dealers may allow remittances on account of fees for tender forms payable
to Government/Semi-Government agencies or a private company or a firm abroad
without the prior approval of the State Bank on receipt and examination of the following
documents:
Authorised Dealers may allow remittances covering fees etc., for registration of patents
and trademarks in foreign countries by firms/companies etc., in Pakistan without prior
approval of the State Bank on receipt and examination of the following documents:
b) Debit Notes of the patent attorney/solicitors etc., for the fees for registration of
patent/trade mark.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
c) Undertaking from the remitter to produce within one month from the date of remittance
evidence to the effect that the patent/trade mark has been registered abroad.
It will be the responsibility of Authorised Dealers to ensure that the requisite evidence
for registration of patent/trade mark is produced to them within the stipulated period.
b) Evidence from the Ministry of Health of the foreign country concerned demanding
payment of registration fee.
c) Undertaking from the remitter to produce within 1½ month from the date of remittance,
evidence to the effect that the applicant has been registered with the Ministry of Health
of the foreign country concerned.
While reporting remittances to the State Bank allowed by them under paras 10, 16, 17,
18, 19 and 20 in their monthly Exchange Returns, Authorised Dealers will bunch the ‘M’
forms under each category separately alongwith the supporting documents on the basis
of which remittances have been effected by them. The bunch of Forms ‘M’ with the
relative documents must have a covering statement in duplicate as per proforma given
below:-
on account of ……………………………….
(State purpose)
All documents on the basis of which exchange facility is allowed by Authorised Dealers
must invariably be stamped to indicate that the remittance has been allowed against
them.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER XV
INSURANCE BUSINESS
1. General.
6. Assignment.
9. Export of Policies.
19. Claims under Foreign Currency Policies covering Imports under Aid/Loan.
26. Transfer of surplus Funds of Marine and General Business by Foreign Insurance Companies.
1. General.
The Exchange regulations governing insurance business entered into in Pakistan are set
out in this chapter. Branches and agencies in Pakistan of insurance companies whose head offices
are situated abroad are, for Exchange purposes, subject to the same regulations as insurance
companies registered in Pakistan.
Insurance policies on the lives of Pakistanis resident in Pakistan can be issued only in
Rupees.
Policies on the lives of foreign nationals resident in Pakistan may be issued in Rupees.
State Bank will permit conversion of such Rupee policies into foreign currency policies and
consequential transfer of actuarial reserves as also remittance of maturity proceeds, as the case
may be, provided the premia in Rupees is paid by them out of their genuine savings which are
otherwise remittable. Similar facility is also available to diplomats accredited to Pakistan and
expatriate employees of international organizations provided premia in Rupees is paid by them out
of their convertible Rupee accounts.
Foreign currency policies may be issued on the lives of foreign nationals where premia is
paid by them in foreign exchange or out of remittable Rupee funds of the policy holders as laid
down in paragraph 17 ibid. Foreign currency policies can also be issued on the lives of Pakistan
nationals domiciled abroad provided premium is paid in foreign exchange only.
Premia on Rupee life policies held by Pakistanis resident abroad must be received either
by remittance from abroad or out of Rupees held in the non-resident account of the policy holder.
6. Assignment.
The maturity proceeds or surrender value of Rupee policies will be paid in Rupees only.
In the case of foreign nationals, the remittance of maturity proceeds/surrender value of Rupee
policies held by them, can be allowed only with the prior approval of the State Bank as indicated
in preceding paragraph 3. Application for this purpose should be made in the prescribed form
(Appendix V-51).
The maturity proceeds or surrender value of foreign currency policies held by foreign
nationals may be paid in rupees or in the currency of the policy. Payment in foreign currency will
be made with the prior approval of the State Bank.
9. Export of Policies.
Life and Endowment policies fall within the definition of securities and cannot be taken or
sent out of Pakistan without the prior approval of the State Bank. Application for export of life
policies should be made to the State Bank giving full description of the policy and reasons for its
export.
Pakistanis, who had taken foreign currency policies while residing abroad, are required to
declare them to the State Bank on their return to Pakistan. In this connection, reference is invited
to the instructions contained in para 15 of Chapter XX. Normally in such cases, the policy holders
will be required to repatriate the surrender value of the policy to Pakistan. However, in cases
where the policy is to mature within one year or so, the State Bank will consider allowing
remittance of premia subject to the condition that the proceeds of the policy on maturity will be
received in Pakistan through banking channel. Application for the purpose should be made in the
prescribed form (Appendix V-52).
Exports from Pakistan can be insured by the exporters only if the goods are shipped on
C.I.F. basis. In respect of shipment on F.O.B. or C & F basis insurance will be arranged by the
overseas buyers. Exporters can take out policies only from companies operating in Pakistan, which
can be expressed in Rupees or in foreign currency.
i) Imports into Pakistan are required compulsorily to be insured in Pakistan with companies
operating in Pakistan. Imports can thus be made only on C & F or F.O.B. basis. It is not
permissible to issue marine policies covering imports into the country in currencies other than
Rupees.
ii) As an exception to the above general rule:
a) National Insurance Company Limited is authorised to issue foreign currency policies against
imports financed by P.I.C.I.C./I.D.B.P. and directly by the loan-giving agencies.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
b) Sub-authorisations issued under U.S. AID Programme on C.I.F. basis can, at the option of the
importers, be utilized for imports from U.S.A. on C.I.F. basis by arranging insurance in the U.S.A.
Shipments between two countries outside Pakistan financed by a person or firm in Pakistan with
the permission of the State Bank, can be insured in Rupees or in foreign currency.
i) Insurance cover on non-marine risks (excluding life) inside Pakistan can be issued
in Rupees only. Nothing in this paragraph shall affect the operation of the warehouse clause in
marine insurance policies.
ii) Insurance cover on assets outside Pakistan owned by residents of Pakistan can be
issued in Rupees or in the currency of the country in which the assets are situated.
iii) Insurance cover in respect of personal baggage and valuables in transit of Pakistan
nationals can be issued in Rupees only. In respect of foreign nationals, such insurance covers can be
written in Rupees or foreign currencies. However, in cases where foreign currency policies are issued to
foreign nationals, premia thereon can be collected in foreign exchange only.
Claims on Rupee policies can be paid in Rupees only even in cases where the beneficiary
is a non-resident.
19. Claims under Foreign Currency Policies covering Imports under Aid/Loan.
Claims arising under Foreign Currency policies covering imports under Aid/Loan can be
paid by National Insurance Company Limited (NICL) without the prior approval of the State Bank
of Pakistan in foreign currency for the replacement of goods damaged or lost in transit. Before
making payment of claims in foreign currency, the NICL will obtain from the concerned importers
an undertaking to the following effect:
i) The amount of the claims will be utilized only to the extent required for
replacement of the goods damaged/lost in transit and any amount un-utilised will be repatriated
to Pakistan through the medium of an Authorised Dealer in foreign exchange.
iii) The documents viz. Invoice relating to shipment duly endorsed by the
Authorised Dealer, Bill of Lading, Bill of Entry and Bank's certificate showing repatriation of un-
utilised amount, if any, shall be submitted to the State Bank within 4 months from the date of
payment to the overseas suppliers.
The National Insurance Company Limited will report the payment of the claims in foreign currency
to the State Bank through a monthly statement showing the amount of claims, names and
addresses of the importers, number and date and value of the import licences/authorisation, if
any, against which the goods were originally shipped and names and addresses of the overseas
exporters. The statement, alongwith the copies of claim payment advices sent to the respective
importers and relative undertaking obtained from them, should be so submitted as to reach the
concerned area office of the Exchange Policy Department by the 7th of the following month.
i) Claims arising under the policies covering exports from Pakistan are payable to
the shippers in cases where the proceeds have not been realised from the overseas importers.
Where the payments have been received by the shippers, the claim can be paid to the overseas
importers.
a) Application on Form 'M' alongwith the declaration in the prescribed form (Appendix V-53).
b) Claim Note.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
c) Policy in original. Duplicate acceptable where original is retained by the Customs authority of the
importing country and/or lost and indemnity in lieu of the original.
d) Invoice on CIF basis relating to the shipment.
e) Bill of Lading/Airway Bill/Postal Receipt relating to the shipment.
f) Survey Report/Short Landing Certificate/General Average Adjustment/Short Contents
Certificate/No Survey Loss Certificate. Survey is not necessary if claim is not likely to exceed U.S.
$100/-.
g) Foreign bank's certificate to the effect that the proceeds relating to the shipment against which
claim is made have already been remitted to Pakistan (except in case of general average claim
payable to adjusters).
iii) To facilitate prompt payment to overseas claimants, the State Bank will consider
requests from Pakistani insurance companies for settlement of such claims by their overseas
settling agents through a system of revolving letter of credit. In cases where such permission is
given, claims would be scrutinized by the overseas settling agents on the basis of the documents
indicated at serial No. (b) to (g) in the preceding sub-paragraph and payments made through
revolving letter of credit. The claim documents both in respect of direct remittance and remittance
under letter of credit should be submitted to the State Bank alongwith the relative Form ‘M’ while
reporting the transaction in the monthly Returns for post facto checking alongwith the declaration
in the prescribed form (Appendix V-53).
iv) Foreign insurance companies are required to settle claims in respect of marine
policies covering exports through their head offices on the basis of all the above claim documents.
Claims on foreign currency policies other than marine can be paid as under:
i) Where the beneficiary is a non-resident, the claim can, with the permission of the
State Bank, be paid in the currency in which the policy is issued.
ii) Where the beneficiary is resident in Pakistan, payment of claim can be made in
Rupees only for which prior permission of the State Bank is not required. In case, however, the
resident beneficiary requires payment in the currency of the policy, application for making such
payment should be made to the State Bank giving full reasons as to why he requires payment in
foreign currency.
Application for remittance of claim under (i) and (ii) above, should be made on Form 'M'
accompanied by the prescribed declaration (Appendix V-53).
Exchange facilities for reinsurance will be given only to branches or offices of insurance
companies in Pakistan doing business on their own account. Such facilities will not be given to
agents of non-resident companies who book business on account of the non-resident companies.
Remittance of reinsurance premia both under treaty and facultative cover arising from
the life insurance policies is not permissible except in the following cases:
b) Reinsurance premia on policies issued and reinsured on or after 25th May, 1973 for sums over
Rs. 3.5 lacs in respect of death risk only.
Remittances in respect of (a) and (b) above will be allowed by the State Bank in
accordance with the procedure set out in the following paragraph No. 24.
Permission may be given by the Authorised Dealers for remittances in respect of reinsurance
business effected with or accepted from non-resident companies on the insurance companies
submitting to them the following information and documents. Remittances in respect of life re-
insurance business will, in addition, be subject to conditions laid down in the preceding paragraph
23:
a) Applications on Form 'M' accompanied by a declaration in the prescribed form (Appendix V-54).
c) Certificate from the Controller of Insurance to the effect that the local market has been fully
utilized before placing any part of the risk outside the country facultatively.
a) Application on Form 'M' accompanied by declaration in the prescribed form (Appendix V-55).
b) A proforma statement of account showing net balance payable/receivable signed by the manager
or an authorised officer of the applicant company duly confirmed by the beneficiary.
c) Proceeds Certificate in case any amount of claim has been received in cash and the same is
being accounted for through the statement of account.
These documents will be submitted to the State Bank with the monthly Returns.
26. Transfer of surplus Funds of Marine and General Business by Foreign Insurance
Companies.
It is the practice with foreign insurance companies, operating in Pakistan, to settle through their
head offices all claims arising under the policies issued by them and payable to non-residents.
Similarly claims arising in Pakistan under the policies issued by their head offices are settled by
their branches in Pakistan. To facilitate such settlements the local branches of overseas insurance
companies are allowed to transfer their surplus funds on quarterly, half-yearly or annual basis.
Companies wishing to transfer surplus funds should make an application to the State Bank,
through the Authorised Dealer maintaining their account, on Form 'M' supported by (i) a no
objection certificate from the Controller of Insurance, (ii) a declaration and statement in the
prescribed forms (Appendices V-56 and V-57) signed by the manager or an authorised officer of
the remitting branch holding power of attorney, and (iii) other requisite documents.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER XVI
PRIVATE REMITTANCES
3. Legacies and other Distributions of Assets from the Estate of Deceased Persons.
5. Issue of Permits.
7. Family Remittance Facilities - Foreign Nationals employed by Merchant Navy and Persons of
Indo-Pak Origin.
11. Subscription to Foreign Magazines, Periodicals etc. and Purchase of Books of a Learned or
Technical Nature.
18. Fees for appearing in Examinations held in Pakistan by ICWA, London Institute of Bankers, etc.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
20. Method of Reporting the Remittances allowed by Authorised Dealers under the above Authority.
Requests for remittance of assets received by the Authorised Dealers from foreign
nationals (other than Indian nationals), foreign born wives of Pakistan nationals, persons of Indo-
Pakistan origin holding foreign passports and stateless refugees, retiring permanently from
Pakistan to their country of permanent domicile or to another country should be referred to the
State Bank in the prescribed form (Appendix V-58) alongwith Form 'M' and other supporting
documents. The assets include bank balance, sale proceeds of securities and other items including
real estate purchased by the applicant out of his genuine savings during his stay in Pakistan. In
such cases, the application should be accompanied by the following documents:
(i) (a) In respect of foreign nationals employed in the private sector, a certified true copy of the service
contract and approval letter from the Board of Investment/work permit/work visa if applicable
under the government’s Investment Policy.
(b) In respect of persons employed in the public sector, a certified true copy of their contracts with
the employing agency.
(c) In the case of self-employed persons carrying on their business or profession in Pakistan e.g.
doctors, lawyers, architects, consultants etc., a certified true copy of the permission letter of the
Board of Investment. Where a foreign national has been carrying on his business or profession in
Pakistan prior to 3rd October, 1963, the permission letter will not be necessary. To this effect,
suitable evidence will have to be produced by the applicant to the State Bank.
(d) Whether cost of passage for self and family is being paid by the employer.
N.B: The above certificate should cover the period of employment not exceeding ten years
counting from the date of retirement from Pakistan.
Where any of the above payments is not covered by the relative service contract, a
certified copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors of the company or special sanction of the
public sector agency, as the case may be, will be necessary.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(iii) A statement of bank account for the preceding two years prior to the date of the
application.
(iv) Bank certificate showing separately the total amount of remittances made on account
of (a) family maintenance (b) leave salary and (c) other miscellaneous purposes for the preceding
two years.
(vi) A Statement of sale proceeds of articles imported by the applicant from abroad.
(vii) Authorised Dealer's certificate showing the amount invested and the amount realised
from the sale of investments, where the applicant had made investment in N.I.T. Units or other
Government Securities for availing of income tax relief.
(i) Name, nationality and place of residence of the deceased at the time of his death. If the deceased
person was resident of Pakistan, the period of such residence should be stated.
(ii) A copy of the relative clauses in the Will after Probate has been granted or if the deceased died
intestate, in the Letters of Administration, in both cases authenticated by a Notary Public, any
Court, Judge or Magistrate in Pakistan or in the country of residence of the deceased if he died
abroad.
(iii) A full statement of the assets in Pakistan of the deceased together with a copy of the bank account
for the preceding two years.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Any amounts which are not allowed to be remitted to the non-resident beneficiaries will
be permitted by the State Bank to be credited to a blocked account in the name of the executor or
administrator with a bank in Pakistan. If any security, shares and real estate which has been
specifically bequeathed to persons resident outside Pakistan are to be transferred to such
beneficiaries, the applications should also contain full particulars of such securities, shares and
real estate.
Foreign nationals, who are resident in and have income in Pakistan, are permitted to make
remittances to the country of their domicile out of their current savings, to cover their
commitments for family maintenance, insurance premia, educational expenses of their children,
legal charges, mortgage payments, loan, interest etc. Such remittances can be made to the extent
of the difference between the net income of the applicant and his estimated expenses in Pakistan,
as declared by him in the prescribed application form. This facility is, however, not available to
Indian and Afghan nationals and foreign-born wives of Pakistan nationals.
5. Issue of Permits.
(i) Permits for monthly remittances may be issued by the Authorised Dealers, without the
prior approval of the State Bank, to foreign nationals other than those who are:
a) Self-employed, or
b) employed in Merchant Navy, or
c) of Indo-Pak origin.
Permits will be issued on receipt of declaration from foreign nationals in the prescribed
form (Appendix V-59) in duplicate and subject to fulfillment of the following conditions:
bb) In case the applicant is employed with Government or Semi Government institution, a letter from
the Department concerned is produced.
cc) The pay cheque of the applicant is received directly by the Authorised Dealer from the employer
for credit to his individual account.
(ii) Permits to eligible applicants will be issued by the Authorised Dealers on a yearly
basis. These permits will be non-cumulative. It will, however, be in order for the Authorised
Dealers to effect remittance of accumulated amounts upto a maximum of two months. Remittance
of accumulations in excess of two months will require prior approval of the State Bank. The
amount remitted each month should be endorsed on the application and after the last remittance
is made, the same should be surrendered to the State Bank.
(iii) For renewal, a fresh declaration in duplicate should be obtained by the Authorised
Dealers.
(iv) Salary on which remittance entitlement is calculated would exclude monetary value of
various facilities such as free house, transport, servants, boarding etc., as also cash payments
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
towards conveyance, entertainment, house rent etc. The term net income signifies gross income
of the applicant less all compulsory deductions such as income tax, provident fund and pension
fund, house rent and other deductions which are of a fixed nature. Bonus or commission
receivable by foreign nationals cannot be added for calculating monthly entitlement in anticipation
of the grant of bonus or commission. The computation will be made only after the net amount of
bonus or commission has actually been paid by the employer and will be spread over the
subsequent twelve months.
(v) Authorised Dealers will keep proper record of these remittances, as this information is
needed by the State Bank, when foreign nationals apply for remittance of their savings, on their
retirement from Pakistan.
(vi) The original copies of all declaration forms (Appendix V-59) will be sent to the State
Bank after effecting the last remittance. Authorised Dealers must, however, ensure that all
expired permits are invariably sent to the State Bank promptly.
Applications for issue of monthly remittance permits from foreign nationals employed by
Pakistan Merchant Navy and from persons of Indo-Pakistan origin holding foreign passports should
be forwarded to the State Bank duly supported by necessary documents.
Under the rules, all Diplomatic Missions accredited to Pakistan, their Diplomatic Officers
and home-based members of the Mission's staff in Pakistan, as also all international organizations
in Pakistan and their expatriate employees, are allowed to maintain two separate Rupee accounts
with banks in Pakistan viz. (i) convertible Rupee account and (ii) non-convertible Rupee account.
Operations on these accounts are subject to the following rules:
(i) The convertible Rupee account can be credited with the following: -
(a) Foreign exchange received from abroad through normal banking channel.
(b) Foreign exchange encashed in Pakistan with any Authorised Dealer.
(c) Transfer from any other convertible Rupee account.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Other credits to the convertible Rupee accounts would require the prior permission of the
State Bank.
The convertible Rupee account can be debited with the following without the permission
of the State Bank:-
(ii) The non-convertible Rupee account can be credited with the following:-
Operations on accounts of United Nations and its Organizations in Pakistan are governed
by the instructions contained in para 2 of Chapter VIII. The expatriate employees of the United
Nations and its Organizations in Pakistan are also governed by the instructions contained in the
preceding paragraph 8 . However, in their case it will be in order for Authorised Dealers to allow
transfer of funds to their convertible Rupee account from the official Rupee accounts of the United
Nations Organizations.
Authorised Dealers may issue travellers cheques to a foreign national, holding family
maintenance permit or to the members of his family by deduction from his remittance entitlement
for that particular month, on production of tickets evidencing the date of their departure from
Pakistan within two weeks from the date of issue of travellers cheques.
11. Subscription to Foreign Magazines, Periodicals etc. and Purchase of Books of a Learned
or Technical Nature.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealers may allow remittances, without prior approval of the State Bank, for
subscription to foreign magazines, periodicals, newspapers etc., and for purchase of books of
learned and technical nature as per ceiling prescribed in the Import Policy.
(ii) Remittances are effected only on behalf of their own clients for not more than one copy each of
the magazines, periodicals, books etc.
(iii) The invoices, demand notes etc., received from foreign publishers or book-sellers and distributors
are addressed to the clients on whose behalf remittance is being made.
(iv) Remittances are made in favour of renowned booksellers, publishers and distributors on account
of subscription to well-known foreign magazines, periodicals etc., and books of a learned and
technical nature (i.e. non-fiction) only.
(v) Remittances are not made for those magazines, books, journals, etc., whose import is
prohibited.
(vi) A declaration by the applicant showing the amount already remitted during the current fiscal year
is submitted and remittance is allowed within his entitlement.
(i) The book-sellers/subscription agencies in Pakistan should accept payment from their customers
only through cheques marked 'Account Payee Only' and deposit the same in a separate account,
which they will open with their bankers exclusively for this purpose. Remittances in respect of
foreign books and magazines will be made by the Authorised Dealers by debit to this account
only.
(ii) Authorised Dealers should make remittances direct to the internationally known publishers and
book-sellers only. As an exception, however, remittances may also be made to the subscription
agents as specified in Appendix V-60.
(iii) The book-sellers/subscription agencies concerned must be a member of the Pakistan Publishers
and Book-sellers Association and registered with the Export Promotion Bureau as an importer. The
book-sellers/subscription agencies should produce a letter from the Secretary of the Association
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
certifying their membership. This certificate will be kept on record by the Authorised Dealers for
inspection by the State Bank.
(iv) Book-sellers/subscription agencies should ensure that parcels/invoices are addressed by the
foreign publishers, book-sellers etc., direct to the individual subscribers in Pakistan. In cases
where remittances are made on the strength of consolidated invoices, it should be ensured that
such invoices are accompanied by statements duly authenticated by the foreign publishers
showing the names, addresses etc., of the individual subscribers. However, in cases where the
book-sellers/subscription agencies are unable to support the consolidated invoices with the
detailed statements at the time of making remittances, the Authorised Dealers may make the
remittance, on the basis of an undertaking from the applicant that authenticated copy of the
statement will be produced to them within a period of two months from the date of remittance. It
will also be the obligation of the concerned Authorised Dealer to ensure that the above statements
are filed by respective book-sellers/subscription agencies with them within the stipulated period.
The said statement should be linked with the relative papers and produced to State Bank's
Inspecting Team on demand.
Authorised Dealers may approve applications on Form ‘M’ upto an amount prescribed in
the Import Policy (currently US$ 5,000 per person during fiscal year 2001-2002) in connection
with import of any importable item or items by actual users on production of the following
documents:-
(ii) Declaration of the applicant that the amounts remitted by him during the current fiscal year
including the amount of the present application does not exceed US$ 5,000.
(iii) Declaration that the item/items so imported are for his personal use only.
Remittances should be made directly in the name of the scientific, technical, professional and
educational institutions abroad.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealers may approve remittances for payment of fee for correspondence
courses in actuarial science and for those other courses which prepare students for examinations
conducted in Pakistan by professional institutions of repute abroad like ICWA etc. Applications for
the purpose should be made on Form 'M' duly supported by a declaration in the prescribed form
(Appendix V-61) and the demand note received from abroad.
18. Fees for appearing in Examinations held in Pakistan by ICWA, London Institute of
Bankers, etc.
The remittances are to be effected in the names of the foreign institutions abroad.
Applications for remittances by private individuals for purposes other than those
mentioned above should be made to the State Bank on Form 'M'. Details of the purpose of the
remittance should be stated in full on Form 'M' and appropriate documentary evidence in support
of the application attached thereto. Authorised Dealers should advise all applicants that it is in
their interest to state clearly the purpose of the remittances, as a decision on the application can
be taken by the State Bank only after considering full facts of each case. Authorised Dealers must
satisfy themselves regarding the bonafides of each case through their personal knowledge of the
applicant, if any, or evidence which the applicant may be able to produce. After thus satisfying
themselves, the Authorised Dealers should certify the application and forward it to the State Bank
for consideration. In each case the nationality of the applicant should be stated and if the
applicant is not a resident of Pakistan, the name of the country of which he is a resident shall be
mentioned. If the applicant is a foreign national, the period of his residence in Pakistan and his
future intention in this regard should be clearly spelled out. Particulars of any permit obtained by
him for making monthly remittances to his country of domicile should also be indicated.
20. Method of Reporting the Remittances allowed by Authorised Dealers under the above
Authority.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
While reporting to the State Bank remittances allowed by them under the general
authority delegated to them in this chapter in their monthly exchange returns, the Authorised
Dealers will bunch Forms 'M' under each category separately alongwith the prescribed supporting
documents in each case on the basis of which the remittances in question have been effected.
Each bunch of Forms 'M' with the relative documents must have a covering statement in
duplicate as per proforma given below:-
Name
Amount
Name &
remitte
of addre
Sl. d in Equivalent
the ss of
No. foreign in Rupees.
remit benef
exchan
ter. iciary
ge.
.
Before forwarding the prescribed documents to the State Bank alongwith the covering
statements referred to above, the Authorised Dealers should see that these are invariably branded
with an appropriate stamp indicating that remittances thereagainst have already been effected.
CHAPTER XVII
TRAVEL
10. General.
11. Persons from whom applications will be received by the State Bank.
12. Applications for grant of State Bank's recognition.
13. Travel to countries other than Afghanistan by Pakistan nationals residing in
Pakistan.
14. Travel by non-resident Pakistan nationals.
15. Restriction during Hajj Season.
16. Booking of Passage for official travel of Government servants, employees of
semi-government institutions/autonomous bodies & nationalized/taken over
institutions/banks/other public sector organizations and travel of official
delegations/foreign nationals engaged by public sector organizations.
17. Booking of passages of Foreign Nationals.
18. Travel to Afghanistan.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
This chapter sets out the rules in accordance with which the Airlines/Shipping
Companies/Travel Agents may sell tickets and Authorised Dealers may release
foreign exchange for travel abroad.
2. Persons from whom applications will be received by the State Bank.
In cases where booking of passage and release of foreign exchange require State
Bank's prior approval, State Bank will entertain applications for approval of
passage on Form "P" or "P-2" (Appendices V-62 and V-63 and for release of
foreign exchange on Form T-1 (Appendix V-64) from the following only:
(i) Applicants themselves.
(ii) Authorised representatives of Airlines/Shipping Companies.
(iii) Authorised representatives of such travel agencies/general sales agents
licensed by the Government under the Travel Agencies Act, 1976 and Overseas
Employment Promoters licensed by the Bureau of Emigration, which are
recognized by the State Bank for the purpose.
(iv) Authorised representatives of the Authorised Dealers.
3. Applications for grant of State Bank’s recognition.
Applications for grant of recognition for the purpose of para 2 (iii) above should
be made to the State Bank through the bankers of the applicants. These
applications should, in addition to (i) a confidential report from the applicants’
bankers and (ii) a list showing the names of their directors, proprietors, partners
etc., as also their nationalities and addresses in Pakistan, be accompanied by the
following:
(i) IATA TRAVEL AGENCIES: Original and one photo copy each of (a) approval of
IATA Membership and (b) licence granted by the Government under the Travel
Agencies Act, 1976.
(ii) NON-IATA TRAVEL AGENCIES:(a) Letters from three IATA airlines sponsoring
their request and (b) original licence granted by the Government alongwith its
photocopy.
(iii) GENERAL SALES AGENTS: (a) Original licence granted by the Government
under the Travel Agencies Act, 1976 alongwith its photo copy and (b) a letter
from the airline concerned indicating appointment as their general sales agents.
(iv) OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT PROMOTERS: Original licence granted by the
Bureau of Emigration alongwith its photo copy.
State Bank will, however, accord recognition in its absolute discretion.
Recognition so granted is liable to be withdrawn by the State Bank at any time
without assigning any reason.
4. Travel to countries other than Afghanistan by Pakistan nationals
residing in Pakistan
(i) SALE OF TICKETS IN PAKISTAN.
(a) Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel Agents may sell tickets to Pakistan
nationals resident in Pakistan against payment in Pakistan Rupees on production
of passport and in case the traveller is over 18 years of age also national identity
card.
(b) Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel Agents may sell tickets on any carrier to
Pakistani crew members going abroad to join ships, on the basis of a certificate
from the Shipping Master and a certificate from the local agents of the foreign
ship owners to the effect that the cost of passage is being paid out of the
remittable rupee collections of their foreign principals and that the same will be
reported in the relative monthly Disbursement Statement of the concerned
principal. The local agent's certificate alongwith the Shipping Master's Office
certificate should be submitted with the monthly "Return of Passage Bookings
(Appendix V-37)".
(ii) TICKETS RECEIVED FROM ABROAD.
Travel against P.T.As/tickets on PIA/Pakistan Shipping Companies as well as on
foreign carriers received from abroad may be allowed without approval of the
State Bank of Pakistan.
(iii) REBATED TICKETS.
(a) Travel by employees of Airlines/Shipping Companies and their dependents
against 100% rebated/free tickets may be authorised by the carriers concerned.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Persons holding tickets for travel abroad where any point in Saudi Arabia can be
touched enroute should not be allowed break-journey/transit in Saudi Arabia from
10th Shawal to 10th Zilhaj.
7. Booking of Passage for official travel of Government servants,
employees of semi-government institutions/autonomous bodies &
nationalized/taken over institutions/banks/other public sector
organizations and travel of official delegations/foreign nationals engaged
by public sector organizations.
(i) On production of air travel warrant (Appendix V-65), passport and National
Identity Card in original, passage for the official travel of Government servants or
members of an official delegation as detailed in the warrant may be booked by
PIA or a travel agent, in which case the latter will approach the PIA for ticketing
against Miscellaneous Charges Order (MCO). In the case of travel by the officials
of the departments/institutions/public sector organizations etc., which do not
issue air travel warrant, passage may be booked by PIA on submission of an
official letter from the department/institution/public sector organization concerned
authorizing such travel alongwith the passport and National Identity Card, in
original. If the passage is desired to be booked by a department/institution/public
sector organization through their approved travel agent, they may do so but in
that case the travel agent should approach the PIA for ticketing against MCO. In
cases where such traveller is abroad and ticket for inward journey is desired to be
issued by the department/institution/public sector organization concerned,
production of passport and National Identity Card in original will not be required.
Release of foreign exchange to such officials will continue to be made by the State
Bank.
(ii) Inward or round trip passage of foreign expatriates engaged by the public
sector organizations for employment with them may also be booked by PIA or a
travel agent, in which case the latter will approach the PIA for ticketing against
MCO on the basis of employer's letter of request.
In the above cases PIA/travel agents will, before booking of passage, ensure that
the air travel warrant or the letter of authorisation or the employer's letter of
request, as the case may be, is genuine and it has been issued over the signature
of an authorised official of the concerned department/institution/public sector
organization. In case of doubt, PlA/travel agents may contact the concerned
government department/institution/public sector organization, for verification. In
support of such bookings, the air travel warrant or the letter of authorisation or
the employer's letter of request, as the case may be, should be attached with the
relative monthly "Return of Passage Bookings".
8. Booking of passages of Foreign Nationals.
In the following cases Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel Agents can book
outward/inward or round trip passages of foreign nationals without the prior
approval of the State Bank.
(i) Passages paid for by Foreign Missions/International
Organizations/United nations and its Organizations.
Where passages of foreign nationals are paid for by foreign missions/international
organizations in Pakistan through cheques drawn by them on their convertible
Rupee accounts or foreign currency accounts in Pakistan. In such cases it will be
necessary for the traveller to produce to Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel
Agents an official letter from the foreign mission / international organization
concerned confirming that the cheque has been drawn on their convertible
Rupee/foreign currency account. The official letter should also indicate the
number of cheque as well as the name of the bank on which the cheque has been
drawn. As regards the United Nations and its Organizations, Airlines/Shipping
Companies/Travel Agents may accept payments for such bookings through
cheques drawn on any of their official bank accounts in Pakistan.
(ii) Booking of passages of Foreign Nationals working/residing in
Pakistan and their Family Members.
(a) Where travel is undertaken by foreign nationals and their family members
provided such foreign nationals are employed with a Government or a Semi-
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Government agency and if employed in the private sector, they hold work
permit/visa from the concerned authority. In such cases Airlines, Shipping
Companies and Travel Agents should ask the foreign national to produce a
certificate of employment from the Government or the official agency concerned
or a copy of the work permit/work visa. In their monthly returns the
Airlines/Shipping Companies will invariably quote the number and date of the
letter/permit/visa in support of such bookings. Passages of foreign nationals
working in Pakistan who do not hold permission letter but are otherwise enjoying
exchange facility from the State Bank/an Authorised Dealer or are employed in
educational/charitable institutions or hospitals can also be booked against
payment in rupees without the prior approval of the State Bank. Airlines/Shipping
Companies will report such bookings in their monthly return duly supported by a
certificate of the bankers of the concerned foreign national to the effect that
he/she is enjoying family maintenance remittance facility from the State Bank of
Pakistan/an Authorised Dealer (Name of the Office) vide (Permit No.)
dated________ or a certificate from the educational/charitable institution or
hospital where the concerned foreign national is employed.
(b) Where travel abroad to the country of domicile is undertaken by foreign
nationals and their family members residing/working in Pakistan but such travel is
not covered by sub-para (a) provided their continuous stay in Pakistan prior to
the issue of ticket is not less than 6 months, which should be verified with
reference to the immigration stamp on the passport of the travellers.
(iii) Foreign Experts/Technicians.
Where inward/outward or round trip journey is undertaken by foreign
experts/technicians being engaged in the private sector for rendering such
services as supervision of installation, commissioning of the plant and training of
personnel. The employers letter of request and their bankers certificate that
engagement of the foreign national is covered by the Industrial Policy Statement
should be attached with the monthly "Return of Passage Bookings".
(iv) Booking of Passage of Foreign Nationals Against Encashment
Certificates.
(a) Where outward passage of foreign nationals (including persons of Indo-Pak
origin), irrespective of their residential status, is desired to be booked against
encashment certificate of Authorised Dealers (Appendix V- 10) evidencing
receipt/encashment of foreign exchange in Pakistan in cover of the Rupee cost of
the relative ticket, provided foreign exchange has been surrendered to an
Authorised Dealer not earlier than 30 days from the date of booking. While
reporting such bookings in their monthly "Return of Passage Bookings" airlines
and shipping companies will enclose the relative encashment certificate in support
of such bookings.
(b) Where outward passage/excess baggage, whether accompanied or
unaccompanied, of foreign tourists is desired to be booked against payment in
foreign exchange to the airlines/shipping companies on holidays or at odd hours
when banks are closed, the foreign exchange so surrendered by the tourists and
accepted by airlines/shipping companies, shall be surrendered by them to an
Authorised Dealer on the next working day alongwith a letter indicating the name
of the traveller and particulars of his passport viz. its No. and place of issue and a
bank's encashment certificate obtained. These certificates shall be attached by
the Airlines/Shipping Companies alongwith their relative passage/freight
statement in support of such bookings.
(c) Where outward passage or excess baggage, both accompanied and
unaccompanied, of foreign nationals is desired to be booked against International
Credit Card, the Airlines/Shipping Companies have first to satisfy themselves
about the genuineness, validity etc., of the Card and then prepare a Charge Form.
The Charge Form will be signed by the Card holder in acknowledgement of the
purchase made against the Card. The name of the Card holder, Credit Card No.
etc., would be clearly indicated on the Charge Form in proof of Credit Card having
been presented by the holder for booking of passage or excess baggage. A copy
of the Charge Form duly filled and signed by the Card holder will be attached by
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(b) In case where tickets/PTAS are received from abroad, the endorsement on the
passports should be made by the carrier concerned in the following manner:
Travel to .............................. (destination) against the ticket of
.............................. (name of carrier) received from abroad authorised for
.............................. (purpose)
STAMP & SIGNATURE
(vi) In all cases of issue of tickets under the authority of paras 4 and 5 of this
chapter, the number of the passport and its date and place of issue will be
recorded by the Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel Agents on the first coupon of
each ticket. A photo copy of these coupons will be submitted by the foreign
carriers alongwith the monthly "Return of Passage Bookings" prescribed vide
paragraph 16 of this chapter. The number of the relevant paragraph of this
chapter will be quoted in column No. 12 of the "Return" in those cases where
passage is sold under the authority delegated to the Airlines/Shipping
Companies/Travel Agents.
13. Collection of Difference in Fare.
(i) It will be in order for the carriers to accept difference arising either from
increase in fare or rerouting in respect of tickets issued in Pakistan subject to the
same terms and conditions as laid down for issue of tickets under the general
authority delegated to them in this chapter. In case of tickets purchased abroad,
difference may be accepted in Pak Rupees if the traveller is otherwise entitled to
purchase a ticket against payment in Pak Rupees under the facility of private
travel allowed in terms of the provisions of this chapter.
(ii) In the case of foreign nationals coming to Pakistan against tickets issued
outside Pakistan and who, on arrival in Pakistan, desire some alteration or
amendment in the ticket, airlines and shipping companies or travel agents may
carry out such alteration or amendment without the prior approval of the State
Bank provided additional payment in Rupees on account of the cost of such
amendments/alterations does not exceed Rs. 100/- per person. In such cases
amounts in excess of Rs.100/- can be collected by airlines, shipping companies
etc., only with the prior approval of the State Bank. This restriction, however,
does not apply to cases where additional payment in Rupees is made by the
foreign traveller out of funds received from abroad or against encashment of
foreign currency or M.C.O's issued abroad.
14. Refund against Cancellation of Tickets.
Carriers have general permission to allow refund against partly or wholly
unutilized tickets without the prior approval of the State Bank in the following
cases:
(i) Wholly unutilized tickets:
(a) Where the carriers have satisfied themselves by examination of relative
documents that the ticket holder has not drawn any foreign exchange.
(b) Where the foreign exchange drawn by the ticket holder has been surrendered
to an Authorised Dealer. In such cases the relative encashment certificates should
be attached with the refund statement.
(ii) Partly utilized tickets: Where refund is in respect of
(a) Travel between two points outside Pakistan except where a point of travel
involved is in India or Bangladesh, and
(b) Return journey portion of a ticket originally issued for two way travel.
15. No refunds Outside Pakistan.
(i) In all cases of bookings made against payments in Rupees, whether single or
round trip, no refunds should be granted outside Pakistan. In all such cases
refunds should be made only in Rupees in Pakistan. All tickets/vouchers etc.,
must be marked accordingly. Airlines and Shipping Companies should also ensure
that such refunds are not given in the form of exchange vouchers or in any other
form, which can be used for further transportation. All such refunds must be
made either by cheque or in cash.
(ii) In respect of a first class ticket involving travel by sea or air issued to a
traveller, whether Pakistan or a foreign national, it is not permissible to convert it
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
into one, which enables the passenger to travel in a lower class. All such requests
must be referred to the State Bank for prior approval.
16. Return of Passage Bookings.
(i) Airlines and Shipping Companies should furnish to the concerned Authorised
Dealer a monthly return of all passages sold or tickets issued by them in the
prescribed form (Appendix V-37) according to the instructions contained in para 3
of Chapter XIV.
(ii) In all cases of cancellations or refunds of passages a monthly statement
should be submitted in the prescribed form (Appendix V-42). In this regard
reference is invited to para 3 of Chapter XIV.
(iii) No returns are required to be submitted by Travel Agents to the State Bank.
They are, however, required to maintain a complete record of all passages sold by
them in the prescribed form (Appendix V-37).
17. Release of Foreign Exchange by Authorised Dealers for foreign travel.
Authorised Dealers may release foreign exchange for foreign travel in accordance
with the instructions set out below:
(i) Sale of Foreign Exchange to Pakistan nationals resident in Pakistan
for travel to countries other than India, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
Pakistan nationals resident in Pakistan are entitled to private travel exchange
quota (PTEQ) of U.S. $50/- per day per person subject to a maximum of
US$2,100 per calendar year for countries other than India, Bangladesh and
Afghanistan. This quota may be drawn from Authorised Dealers in accordance
with instructions contained in subsequent sub-paragraphs in lump sum or in
installments over a period of one calendar year. Children below the age of 2 years
are entitled to 10% of the PTEQ mentioned above while children over 2 years of
age but below 12 years of age are entitled to draw 50% of PTEQ. The PTEQ will
be released by the Authorised Dealers for the period of stay abroad as may be
declared by the applicant on ‘T-1’ form subject to the prescribed maximum
ceiling. The period of stay abroad declared by the applicant should be
substantiated by the Authorised Dealers with reference to the number of days for
which visa, if any, has been granted and from the dates of outward/inward
journeys, if indicated in the tickets. Authorised Dealers should record in the
relevant passports, release of PTEQ in full at one time or in instalments with date,
month and year of issue. In cases where passport is presented within one year of
its issue and it bears the endorsement that the holder thereof has previously
travelled abroad on another passport which has been cancelled and returned, the
Authorised Dealers should invariably call for the previous passport in order to
determine the entitlement of PTEQ. In case the endorsement shows that the
previous passport had been retained by the authorities after cancellation,
Authorised Dealers may issue foreign exchange on the basis of the written
affirmation by the person concerned about the foreign exchange drawn by him
since Ist January of the relevant calendar year to date.
(ii) Private Travel Exchange Quota can also be released against one way ticket.
(iii) Banks authorised to deal in foreign exchange will release foreign exchange to
the travellers as indicated above, on production of the following: -
(a) Passport.
(b) National Identity Card
(c) Ticket
(d) T-1 form duly completed.
(e) Visa in case of travel by land route.
Before issuing foreign exchange on the scale indicated in preceding sub-
paragraph (i) , Authorised Dealers should satisfy themselves about the
genuinness of the request for release of PTEQ and verify with reference to the
passports of the travellers that they are entitled to the private travel exchange
quota. It should also be verified from the passport that the journey for which the
instalment of private travel exchange quota was last drawn, was actually
undertaken. Authorised Dealers will ensure that the serial number(s) of the
ticket(s) and the name of the airline/shipping company are invariably indicated in
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
the columns provided for the purpose in the Authorised Dealer's Certificate
provided in "T-1" form.
(iv) In the case of travel by land route, Authorised Dealers may release private
travel exchange quota subject to entitlement on submission of "T-1" form,
passport, National Identity Card and visa.
(v) No foreign exchange will be made available by Authorised Dealers for travel to
Afghanistan.
(vi) Authorised Dealers will keep photostat copies of the following documents in
their record and present the same to the Inspection Teams of the State Bank.
a) Pages 1, 2 and 3 with inside title page and that page of the passport on which
endorsement of release of foreign exchange is made
b) First coupon of air/steamer ticket.
c) Visa
(vii) No foreign exchange will be made available by the Authorised Dealers for
private travel to countries mentioned in para 6 of this chapter during the period
from 10th Shawwal to 10th Zilhaj. However, in the case of persons falling in
categories specified in paragraph 6 of this chapter and proceeding to Saudi Arabia
exclusively for performing Hajj, Authorised Dealers may release Private Travel
Exchange Quota, where admissible, on production of No Objection Certificate
issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs & Minorities Affairs, Government of
Pakistan, Islamabad. While releasing foreign exchange to the above travellers,
the Authorised Dealers will retain a copy of the above No Objection Certificate and
forward the same to the Exchange Policy Department alongwith the relevant
return of foreign exchange transactions.
18. Sale of foreign exchange to Pakistan nationals resident in Pakistanfor
travel to India and Bangladesh.
(i) Authorised Dealers may release to Pakistan nationals resident in Pakistan as
private travel exchange quota (a) US$25/- per head (irrespective of age) on each
visit to India and (b) US$100/- per head on each visit to Bangladesh subject to
the condition that children upto the age of 12 years will be given US$50/- per
head. The foreign exchange may be released on production of passport, National
Identity Card in original, "T-1" form and Air/Steamer ticket. The Air/Steamer
ticket and passport of the traveller should be endorsed with the amount released
as prescribed in paragraph 43 ibid except in case of travel by land route where
only the passport should be endorsed. It should also be verified from the passport
that the journey, for which private travel exchange quota was last drawn, was
actually undertaken.
(ii) Zaireen nominated by the Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs to visit Muslim
Shrines in India may be allowed exchange @ US$10 per day per head by the
Authorised Dealers on production of a copy of the nomination letter issued by the
Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs. Zaireen proceeding to Ajmer for participation
in the Urs of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (R. A) may be allowed a further
sum of US$25/- per head in addition to US$10/- per day per head to cover travel
cost from Delhi to Ajmer and back. The nomination letter should be surrendered
alongwith the "T-1" form while reporting the transaction.
19. Private travel by Government Servants, employees of Semi-
Government Institutions/autonomous bodies and nationalized/taken
over institutions/bank.
The instructions contained in paragraphs 4, 9, 17, 18 and 25 will apply. However,
tickets will be issued and foreign exchange released on submission of relevant
order of the competent authority sanctioning leave ex-Pakistan, in addition to
other prescribed documents. Before releasing PTEQ in such cases Authorised
Dealers should ensure that it is clearly indicated in the Leave Order that the
traveller has not been allowed to draw leave salary / pension in foreign exchange.
20. Restriction as to re-issue of unspent amount of ‘PTEQ’ surrendered to
an Authorised Dealer.
Unspent amount of foreign exchange brought back by a traveller out of the 'PTEQ'
drawn by him and surrendered to an Authorised Dealer can be re-issued to him
for subsequent travel abroad within the approved limits.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealers may release US$ 50 per head for meeting incidental expenses
to the travellers of the following categories, proceeding to countries other than
India, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on submission of passport and ticket. This will
be in addition to any other purchase of foreign exchange admissible to them
except Private Travel Exchange Quota: -
(i) Pakistanis resident in Pakistan except those proceeding on official or business
travel.
(ii) Pakistani students studying abroad (Para 5(i) ibid) excluding those going
abroad on fresh permits.
(iii) Returning residents (Para 5(ii) ibid).
(iv) Foreign nationals settled/working in Pakistan (Para 8(ii)(b) ibid).
(v) Foreign students studying in Pakistan (Para 8(vi) ibid).
(vi) Foreign Crews (Para 8(vii) ibid).
(vii) Employees of foreign controlled companies and their joint ventures in
Pakistan for attending In-House Seminars, Workshops, Symposia, Meetings etc.
outside Pakistan.
The sale of this amount of US$ 50 will be recorded on the passport as a separate
entry distinct from any other amount of foreign exchange purchased by the
traveller.
26. Exchange Quota to Government/Semi-Government Employees going
on Delegations, Duty, Posting, Leave, Retirement and Training.
Government/Semi-Government employees will be entitled to draw exchange at
the prescribed rate of daily allowance which has been fixed by the Government
for the actual period they remain abroad on official duty. In addition, an exchange
quota of US$100/- per person will be allowed on private account, if so requested
by the person concerned provided he has not been allowed to draw his salary
abroad. Persons who are eligible to draw leave salary/pension in foreign exchange
may, while proceeding abroad on leave or after retirement, either draw the
private travel quota or leave salary/pension as admissible under Government
rules.
27. Migration.
Persons proceeding on migration abroad will be allowed by the State Bank a
foreign exchange quota of US$50/- per head against sponsored migration visa
and US$500/- per family against non-sponsored visa. Migrants to USA/Canada
against non-sponsored visa will be allowed a compulsory minimum quota of
US$260/- per family. They may at their option also obtain additional exchange
quota upto US$500/- inclusive of the compulsory quota. Application for the
purpose should be made on the prescribed form (Appendix V-69).
28. Business Travels Abroad.
Persons proceeding abroad on business visits are allowed exchange facility at the
rate of US$300/- per day subject to a maximum of US$9000/- per person for
countries other than India and Afghanistan. For India business travel quota is
allowed @ US $40/- per day subject to a maximum of US$1,200 /- per person.
29. Booking of passage/release of exchange for business visits abroad on
the basis of Certificates of Trade Organizations.
Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel Agents and Authorised Dealers may issue
tickets and release foreign exchange at the rate specified in para 28 ibid without
prior approval of the State Bank in accordance with the following instructions in
cases where business visit to countries other than Afghanistan is recommended
by the Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry or by a Chamber of
Commerce/Trade Organization listed in Appendix V-70.
(i) Persons desirous of proceeding abroad on business visits under the above
scheme should fill in Form "T-2" (Appendix V-71) in triplicate and submit it to one
of the Organizations mentioned in the list for certification. Two copies of Form "T-
2" will be returned to the applicants after certification and the third copy retained
by the Chamber of Commerce/Trade Organization for their own record.
(ii) On the basis of certification of Chamber of Commerce/Trade Organization,
Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel Agents may sell passage for countries other
than Afghanistan on payment of the cost thereof by the firm/company on whose
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
holders will be reported on Form 'M' and endorsed on the photocopy of the
relative Blanket Permission/T-2 form which will be attached with Form 'M'. In the
case of business travel against Blanket Permission a photocopy of the exporting
firm's letter referred to in preceding sub-para (v) will also be attached.
(vii) A photocopy of Blanket Permission/Original T-2 form bearing Authorised
Dealer's (Credit Card Issuing Agency's) endorsement regarding release of initial
amount of foreign exchange as well as subsequent remittances made by the
Authorised Dealers (Credit Card Issuing Agencies) will be submitted to the
Exchange Policy Department alongwith a monthly statement in the form
appearing at Appendix V-77. This statement should reach the area office of the
Exchange Policy Department by the 10th of the month following the month to
which it relates. In the case of business travel against Blanket Permission the
original letter submitted by the exporting firm in terms of para 35(iii) of this
chapter will also be attached with the return.
(viii) Initial release/all subsequent remittances shall also be endorsed by the
Authorised Dealer on original Blanket Permission which on expiry of its validity
will be surrendered to the Issuing Office in accordance with the instructions laid
down in para 33(iii) of this chapter.
37. Release of Foreign Exchange to business executives of
firms/companies other than exporters against Credit Cards.
The Credit Card facility as admissible to the bonafide exporters in terms of para
36 ibid can also be availed of by business executives of firms/companies other
than exporters provided the firm/company is paying minimum income tax of one
million rupees a year, after obtaining necessary approval from the area office of
the Exchange Policy Department on production of the following documents
through their bankers:
(i) Formal request of the firm/company for credit card facility to their executives.
(ii) Valid passports of the concerned persons together with original National
Identity Cards.
(iii) Attested copy of the latest Income Tax Assessment Order of the
firm/company.
(iv) Attested copy of the receipted challan evidencing payment of Income Tax
during the preceding income year.
After obtaining State Bank’s approval, the following procedure will be followed:
(a) Firms/companies other than exporters will approach the concerned Authorised
Dealers (Credit Card Issuing Agencies) alongwith the approval letter of State
Bank of Pakistan and form "T-2" duly certified by the respective Chamber of
Commerce and Industry/Trade Association. While issuing credit cards, the
Authorised Dealers (Credit Card Issuing Agencies) shall make endorsement on the
face of duplicate "T-2" form and on the back of State Bank’s approval letter in the
following format:
Name of Authorised Dealer (Credit Card Issuing Agency)
Credit Card No.........................................
Issued to Mr...........................................
against S.B.P. Approval No.............................
dated.........................
Date:………………..
Signature: ............................
Authorised Dealers (Credit Card Issuing Agencies) will retain a photo-stat copy of
State Bank’s approval letter and return the original to the applicant.
(b) The limit upto which the persons concerned may utilize the credit card facility
shall be the maximum Business Travel Quota admissible under the rules for the
time being in force less any amount of foreign currency notes/travellers cheques
issued to them in Pakistan.
(c) All remittances made by Authorised Dealers (Credit Card Issuing Agencies) in
reimbursement of expenses incurred abroad by the holders of credit card will be
reported in the monthly foreign exchange returns under the code relating to
business travel.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(d) If so desired by the persons concerned, initial release in the shape of either
foreign currency notes or travellers cheques, can be obtained by them but only
from the Authorised Dealer which has issued the credit card and from no other
Authorised Dealer. Such sales will be reported to the Issuing Office under the
code relating to business travel on "T-1" form with which a photo copy of State
Bank’s approval letter and "T-2" form duly endorsed by the Authorised Dealers
(Credit Card Issuing Agencies) will be attached.
(e) Subsequent remittances made by the Authorised Dealers (Credit Card Issuing
Agencies) in reimbursement of the amount utilized abroad by the Credit Card
holders will be reported on Form 'M' and endorsed on the photo copy of the
relative 'T-2' form which will be attached with Form 'M' alongwith photostat copy
of State Bank’s approval letter.
(f) A photo copy of State Bank’s approval letter and Duplicate "T-2" form bearing
Authorised Dealer's (Credit Card Issuing Agency's) endorsement regarding
release of initial amount of foreign exchange as well as subsequent remittances
made by the Authorised Dealer (Credit Card Issuing Agency) will be submitted to
the Exchange Policy Department alongwith a monthly statement in the form
appearing at Appendix V-77. This statement should reach the area office of the
Exchange Policy Department by the 10th of the month following the month to
which it relates.
38. Combination of two exchange facilities.
Authorised Dealers should not release foreign exchange for two different purposes
at a time. In other words combination of two exchange facilities is not allowed.
39. Foreign Exchange facilities for studies abroad.
Authorised Dealers may release foreign exchange without the prior approval of
the State Bank to students desirous of studying abroad in accordance with the
procedure set out below. It will, however, be ensured by the Authorised Dealers
that no foreign exchange for studies abroad is released to a student whose
financier/guardian/parents is/are residing and earning abroad.
(I) Procedure to apply for release of exchange for studies abroad.
Students will fill in the prescribed Application Form (Appendix V-78) in triplicate
and present it to their bankers alongwith their passports and the following
documents in original together with 3 sets of photo copies thereof:
(a) National Identity Card, if over 18 years of age.
(b) Certificate of academic qualification.
(c) Letter of admission from educational institution abroad indicating nature of
course and its duration or Form I-20 in the case of studies in U.S.A.
(d) Letter from the educational institution abroad showing break-up of the
expenses like tuition fee, cost of books and other fees etc. payable to the
institution and estimated living expenses.
(e) Evidence of scholarship/assistantship, if any, which the student will
be receiving.
(II) Courses of study and educational institutions which qualify for
exchange facility for studies abroad.
Authorised Dealers will scrutinize the Student Application Form in the light of the
following rules in order to determine whether the course of study proposed to be
undertaken by the student and the educational institution in which admission has
been secured, qualify for foreign exchange facility for studies abroad: -
(a) Diploma or under-graduate studies in all subjects.
Exchange facility for studies at diploma or under-graduate level is permitted in all
subjects in any university/institution abroad. Minimum educational qualification
for the purpose is Matriculation or as acceptable to the university / institution
abroad where admission is desired to be obtained.
(b) Post-graduate studies.
Exchange facility for post-graduate studies is permitted in technical as well as
general fields only to graduates in first and second divisions. The field of post-
graduate study should be in line with the subjects in which the students have
graduated.
(c) Studies in U.S.A.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Exchange facility for undertaking approved studies as mentioned at (a) and (b)
above in U.S.A. is allowed only when admission is taken in an accredited
institution as listed in the booklet published by the American Council on Education
for the Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation, Washington D.C.. Authorised
Dealers should ensure that the latest copy of the above Booklet remains available
with them.
(d) Primary and Secondary Education.
No exchange facility should be allowed for primary or secondary education
abroad.
(III) Rates of exchange quota for studies abroad.
If the scrutiny of the application by the Authorised Dealers reveals that the
student is eligible for the grant of foreign exchange facility for studies abroad and
that the student has the prescribed qualification, foreign exchange on account of
the following may be released by the Authorised Dealers at actuals: -
Tuition Fee At actuals, as
demanded by the
institution
concerned.
Maintenance Allowance -do-
(iv) An undertaking from those candidates who intend to proceed abroad for
examination only that they will not claim any exchange facility from Pakistan
except the PTEQ as admissible to them.
(v) Where applicable, Admission Letter/Letter from the Royal College of
Physicians/Surgeons/Obstetricians and Gynaecologists detailing short preparatory
post-graduate courses viz. duration of course, tuition fee, break up of living
expenses for the duration of the course, etc.
(vi) Where applicable, an undertaking from the student that he will not claim any
exchange facility from Pakistan in addition to one allowed to him for short
preparatory courses before his departure from Pakistan.
40. Freight on Personal Baggage.
(i) Airlines and Shipping Companies are authorised to accept freight at actuals in
rupees on personal baggage, whether accompanied or un-accompanied, both in
respect of outward and inward journeys originating from Pakistan and terminating
abroad, or originating from abroad and terminating in Pakistan, from travellers
other than those who are covered by succeeding sub-paragraph (iii).
Airlines/Shipping Companies can also accept outward excess baggage, whether
accompanied or un-accompanied, on freight-to-pay basis without limit. However,
it will be the responsibility of the Airlines to ensure that in respect of accompanied
baggage, Excess Baggage Tickets are issued at actual weight basis and
passengers are not provided with Miscellaneous Charges Orders for the purpose.
(ii) Shipping Companies/Airlines may accept payment of freight in rupees upto Rs
500 per packet in connection with the export of gift parcels and actual freight in
connection with the export of bonafide free trade samples covered by paragraph 2
of Chapter XII. The Shipping Companies/Airlines while reporting such collections
in their monthly returns of passage and freight collections should enclose a copy
of the Airway Bill/Bill of Lading in support of the relative freight collections.
(iii) In respect of categories of travellers mentioned in sub-paragraphs (i), (ii)(a)
and (iv)(a) of paragraph 8 of this chapter, Airlines/ Shipping Companies can
accept freight without limit for transportation of personal effects whether
accompanied or un-accompanied on outward journey subject to the same
conditions as laid down in the said sub-paragraphs for booking of passage.
41. Release of Foreign Exchange for travel, education, medical treatment
etc.
Amounts of foreign exchange in excess of the limits on payments for invisibles
specified in paragraph 17 to 40 shall be released by the Authorised Dealers after
prior verification of submitted documentary evidence demonstrating that the
additional amount is needed in order to make a bonafide payment for purposes
specified in the aforementioned paragraphs under advice to the Exchange Policy
Department, Central Directorate, Karachi.
42. Conversion of Unspent Balance of Rupees by Foreign Nationals.
Authorised Dealers may allow conversion into foreign exchange of the unspent
amount, without any limit, left with the foreign tourists out of proceeds of foreign
exchange encashed by them in Pakistan with an Authorised Dealer. Re-conversion
facility will be provided on production of encashment certificate (App. V-10) by
the foreign tourist or on the basis of endorsement recorded on his passport by an
Authorised Dealer at the time of purchase of foreign exchange. The relative
encashment certificate or copy of the relevant pages of passport shall be
submitted to the State Bank alongwith the monthly returns.
43. Endorsement on Passports and Tickets.
The amount of exchange sold by the Authorised Dealers together with the date on
which the sale is made must be recorded on the traveller’s passport under the
stamp and signature of the Authorised Dealer at the time the sale is made. The
endorsement should be made on the special pages provided for the purpose. The
exchange issued should also be endorsed on the first page of ticket jacket as also
back side of the passengers’ coupon and a hole punched in the upper right hand
corner of the passengers air/steamer ticket. Authorised Dealers should not sell
any exchange unless a person holds a ticket for departure on a definite date and
that such a date is not later than two weeks from the date on which the exchange
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
is issued. No exchange should be sold against tickets which do not specify the
date of departure provided that these instructions do not apply if a person is
travelling by land route where only the passport will be endorsed.
44. Form in which Exchange may be issued.
(i) Exchange granted for travel purposes should be issued only in the form of
travellers cheques or circular letters of credit or in foreign currency notes or
coins. It may be issued in the form of T.T. or M.T. also or Draft but in such cases,
it should be expressly provided that payment by the drawee bank shall be made
only on the personal application and identification of the traveller. When issuing
travellers cheques or circular letters of credit, the Authorised Dealers should
invariably mention therein, the place and date of issue. The travellers cheques or
circular letters of credit must be signed personally by the applicant in the
presence of the Authorised Dealer. The travellers cheques issued against the
admissible Private Travel Exchange Quota will be branded by the Authorised
Dealers with a rubber stamp containing the narration “Good for encashment
outside Pakistan and in case of encashment in Pakistan, proceeds will be paid in
Pakistan rupees only.” The Authorised Dealers will maintain record of travellers
cheques sold by them in a register with the prescribed ruling (Appendix V-80).
(ii) The release of admissible Private Travel Exchange Quota to the travellers
proceeding abroad in the shape of foreign currency notes will be restricted to
US$100 only. The balance amount of admissible quota will be released in the
shape of travellers cheques duly branded with rubber stamp as stipulated in the
preceding sub-para.
45. Surrender by Travelers of Unspent Foreign Exchange.
Attention of the all persons granted foreign exchange for travel abroad should be
drawn by the Authorised Dealer to sub section (3) of Section 4 of the Act. No
person who acquires foreign exchange for travel can use it for a purpose other
than for his living or travelling expenses in the country for which exchange is
issued. In the case of special allotment made by the State Bank, the exchange
can be utilised only for the purpose for which it is sanctioned. All unspent
amounts of foreign exchange should be sold to an Authorised Dealer by the
traveller immediately on his return to Pakistan. If so desired by the person
concerned, the amount of foreign exchange thus surrendered may be endorsed
on his/her passport.
46. Exchange for Hajj.
The Government of Pakistan announces each year the scale on which foreign
exchange will be released to intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. Foreign exchange
may be released by the designated Authorised Dealers to intending pilgrims in the
form and on the scales and in accordance with the special instructions and
conditions laid down by the Government for different categories of pilgrims.
47. Remittances for maintenance expenses of the families of Pakistanis
living abroad temporarily.
State Bank considers requests for allowing remittances in foreign exchange on
account of living expenses of families of Pakistani nationals living abroad
temporarily for some genuine personal reasons and whose cases are not covered
by para 24 and 39 of this chapter provided the following documents are
submitted:-
(i) Application from Pakistan national resident in Pakistan indicating the purpose
for which the family went abroad and the reason for its continued residence
abroad and the probable period of stay abroad.
(ii) A certificate from Pakistan Embassy/High Commission in the concerned
country confirming the reason of stay abroad of the family, expected period of
stay, the number of persons in the family and the amount required per month for
maintenance. The certificate should confirm that the concerned persons hold
Pakistani passports.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER XVIII
1. General.
8. Ban on Export of Foreign Exchange Instruments and Pakistan and Foreign Currency
Notes and Coin by Post.
1. General.
In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 8 of the Act, the Federal
Government has issued Notification No.F1(8)/EF/49 dated the 2nd May, 1949 and No.1(2)ECS/48
dated the 1st July, 1948 as amended by Notification No.1(14)-EF/49 dated 5th November, 1949,
prohibiting the bringing or sending into Pakistan from any place outside Pakistan, of Pakistan and
foreign currency notes or bank notes, un-issued or in circulation, or coin, except with the general
or special permission of the State Bank.
However, under Notification No.FE.5/92-SB dated the 28th December, 1992 State Bank has
granted general permission for bringing into Pakistan notes legal tender in Pakistan not exceeding
Rs 500 from India and Rs 3000 from any country other than India, in value, in all per person at
any one time.
The State Bank has also granted under Notification No.F.E.30/49-SB dated the 5th
November, 1949 and Notification No.FE. 5/92-SB dated the 28th December, 1992 general
permission to the travellers to Pakistan, to bring with them without limit foreign currency notes
except un-issued notes and coin, except coin which is legal tender in India, which can be brought
only upto Rs.5/- in value per person at any one time.
The permission contained in preceding paragraphs 2 and 3 is valid only for bringing in of
Pakistan or foreign currency notes or coin by travellers personally with them, but not for sending
them into Pakistan by post or otherwise which is illegal. Currency notes and coin sent by post to
Pakistan are liable to be confiscated, which is besides the legal action that will be taken under the
Act in such cases.
State Bank has granted general permission vide Notification No.FE.4/92-SB dated the
th
28 December, 1992 for taking out from Pakistan currency notes of the Government of Pakistan
and State Bank of Pakistan notes not exceeding Rs 500 and Rs 3000 in value to India and any
country other than India respectively, in all per person at any one time.
The State Bank has granted general permission for export of currency which has been brought
into Pakistan in the safes of vessels or aircrafts, or which has been taken on board a vessel or
aircraft with the permission of the State Bank.
Pakistan currency notes upto Rs 500 and Rs 3000, which the persons leaving Pakistan
are permitted to take with them to India and to any country other than India respectively, are not
intended for expenditure in foreign countries, but are meant for immediate expense on their
return to Pakistan. Authorised Dealers should bring this to the notice of travellers when issuing
exchange to them for travel purposes.
8. Ban on Export of Foreign Exchange Instruments and Pakistan and Foreign Currency
Notes and Coin by Post.
The permission contained in paragraphs 5 and 10 (d), (e) and (f) is valid only for taking
out foreign exchange instruments and currency notes and coin by the travellers themselves, but
not for sending them out by post or otherwise, which is illegal and renders the foreign currency
instruments and currency notes and coins so sent liable for confiscation, besides any legal action
that may be taken against the sender under the Act.
The term 'foreign exchange' as defined in Section 2 of the Act means foreign currency
and inter alia includes any instrument drawn, accepted, made or issued under clause (8) of
Section 17 of the State Bank of Pakistan Act, 1956 and any drafts, travellers cheques, letters of
credit and bills of exchange expressed or drawn in foreign currency or in Pakistan currency but
payable in any foreign currency. There are no restrictions on the import of foreign exchange
instruments either personally or by post or otherwise. Such restriction applies only to foreign
currency notes and coin in respect of which para 4 ibid may be referred.
In pursuance of sub-section (2) of Section 8 of the Act, the State Bank has issued
Notification No. F.E.2/98-SB dated July 21st, 1998 granting general permission to: -
(a) Authorised Dealers to send out of Pakistan, cheques, drafts or bills of exchange which
have been acquired by them in the normal course of their business and within the terms of their
authorisation.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(b) Any person maintaining an account expressed in a foreign currency, and held under any
permission, general or otherwise, granted by the State Bank of Pakistan to take or send out of
Pakistan, cheques or drafts drawn on such account.
(c) Any person, other than a person to whom foreign exchange is issued for travelling
purposes only, to send out of Pakistan foreign exchange issued to him by an Authorised Dealer.
(d) Any person to take out of Pakistan foreign exchange issued to him by an Authorised
Dealer in Pakistan and endorsed on his passport.
(e) Any person not ordinarily resident in Pakistan, to take out of Pakistan the unspent
amount of foreign currency brought by him into Pakistan, provided the period of his continuous
stay in Pakistan does not exceed three months, and
(f) Any person to take out of Pakistan US$ 10,000/- or equivalent thereof in other foreign
currencies.
The terms "jewellery" and "precious stones" are deemed to include all articles made
wholly or mainly of gold, platinum, diamonds of all kinds, precious or semi-precious stones, pearls
whether or not mounted, set or strung and articles set or mounted with diamonds, precious or
semi-precious stones or pearls.
Under the Act there are no restrictions on the import of jewellery and precious stones, but their
import is regulated by the Import Trade Control Regulations. Import of jewellery, precious metals,
precious stones, etc., by incoming passengers is regulated by the Rules made under the Customs
Act.
Sub-section (2) of Section 8 of the Act prohibits export from Pakistan of jewellery or
precious stones except with the general or special permission of the State Bank. The State Bank
has granted general permission vide its Notification No.F.E.3/85-SB dated the 15th August, 1985,
under which any person can take out of Pakistan at any one time to any country outside Pakistan,
precious stones or jewellery other than articles made wholly or mainly of gold as under:
No person is allowed to take any jewellery to India without the approval of the State Bank.
(i) Under the State Bank Notification No.FE.3/85-SB dated the 15th August, 1985, any
person other than a person domiciled in Pakistan or India, who is returning to his/her own
country, may take with him/her any precious stones or jewellery brought by him/her into Pakistan
without limit if the same had been declared to the Customs Authorities on the prescribed form at
the time of his/her arrival in Pakistan, and precious stones and jewellery, other than articles made
wholly or mainly of gold purchased in Pakistan upto a further Rs.10,000/- in value. The intention
is that this facility will be available only to the families of foreign nationals who are working in
Pakistan with the permission of the concerned authorities. Foreign nationals and overseas
Pakistanis can also take out gold, jewellery, precious/semi precious stones upto the value of
$10,000/- in all provided the same have been purchased against encashment of foreign exchange
brought by them from abroad.
(ii) Applications to carry jewellery to India or to other countries in excess of the limit
prescribed in para 13 ibid, should be made to the State Bank in duplicate on Form 'J' (AppendixV-
81). The application should be accompanied by an undertaking from the traveller that should the
State Bank accede to his/her request, he/she will bring back the jewellery to Pakistan within the
specified period, declare it to the Customs and produce proof thereof to the State Bank. Where
such requests are allowed by the State Bank, it will issue a licence for the Customs in duplicate.
While the original copy of the licence will be surrendered to the Customs at the time of taking out
the jewellery, the duplicate thereof will be retained by the traveller. On his/her return to Pakistan,
the jewellery brought back by the traveller will be declared to the Customs who will endorse the
duplicate copy of the licence. The duplicate copy of the licence endorsed by the Customs will be
produced by the travellers to the State Bank within the specified period in pursuance of the
undertaking given by him/her at the time of departure.
'Gold' as defined in Section 2 of the Act includes gold in the form of coin, whether legal
tender or not, or in the form of bullion or ingot, whether refined or not. 'Silver' means silver
bullion or ingot, silver sheets and plates which have undergone no process of manufacture
subsequent to rolling and uncurrent silver coin which is not legal tender in Pakistan or elsewhere.
(i) The Federal Government by their Notification No.1(2) ECS/48 dated the 1st July, 1948
issued pursuant to sub-section (1) of Section 8 of the Act have prohibited, except with the general
or special permission of the State Bank, the import into Pakistan from any place outside Pakistan
of:
(a) any gold coin, gold bullion, gold sheets or gold ingot whether refined or not, and
(b) any silver bullion, any silver sheets or plates which have undergone no process of manufacture
subsequent to rolling or any uncurrent silver coin.
Import of gold and silver into Pakistan is, therefore, subject to State Bank's
authorisation.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(ii) Import of pure gold/silver and rough/uncut precious and semiprecious stones will be
allowed against export of gold/silver jewellery and cut and polished precious/semi-precious stones
in accordance with the procedure notified by the Government of Pakistan and the instructions
issued by the State Bank from time to time.
(iii) The State Bank vide its Notification No. F.E.1/94-SB dated the 20th March, 1994 has
granted general permission for import of gold into Pakistan from any place outside Pakistan as
accompanied baggage provided such imports are made in accordance with the existing import
policy.
Sub-section (2) of Section 8 of the Act prohibits the export of gold except with the general or
special permission of the State Bank. The State Bank, however, does not allow the export of gold.
Under the Act, there are no restrictions on the export of silver. Its export when allowed
requires to be declared on form 'E' prescribed for export by the State Bank and the export
proceeds are required to be repatriated within the stipulated period.
In terms of State Bank's Notification No.FE.4/91-SB dated the 26th February, 1991, all
persons are required to declare to the Custom authorities at the time of leaving Pakistan, jewellery and
precious stones carried by them in prescribed declaration Form 'CD' (Appendix V-82).
In order to ensure that the outgoing passengers do not face any difficulty in obtaining
'CD' forms and filling them at the time of their departure, airlines/shipping companies, travel
agents are required to supply these forms to the intending passengers at the time of issuing the
tickets so that the completed forms are with them before they enter the Custom Lounge.
CHAPTER XIX
LOANS, OVERDRAFTS AND GUARANTEES
Part A – Rupee Loans
Authorised Dealers are given general permission under the Foreign Exchange
Regulation Act, 1947 to grant rupee loans to their clients (including foreign
controlled companies) against guarantees of non-residents/guarantees received
from banks functioning abroad, subject to compliance with the credit restrictions
imposed by the Banking Supervision Department, State Bank of Pakistan.
Part B- Foreign Private Loans
8. Private Foreign Currency Loans.
In terms of section 4(1) of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, borrowing from
abroad without the previous general or special permission of the State Bank is
prohibited. The State Bank has given general permission to Private Sector
entrepreneurs to obtain foreign currency loans from banks/financial institutions
abroad, parent companies of the multinationals and as suppliers credit including
credits under PAYE Scheme, not involving government guarantee, for financing
foreign currency cost of the projects covered by the government’s
Industrial/Investment Policy and the instructions issued by SBP from time to
time. The loans should be contracted on the best possible terms. The repayment
period of such loans/credits, however, should not be less than five years.
9. Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) Scheme.
Since February, 1973 the Government has instituted a scheme of Suppliers Credit
called PAY-AS-YOU-EARN (PAYE) Scheme under which entrepreneurs in the
private sector can negotiate foreign currency loans for import of plant and
equipment for export oriented industries either for establishment of new industrial
units or for balancing, modernization, replacement and expansion of the existing
export oriented units. The industries covered by the Scheme are:
(i) Export oriented industries which include:
(a) Industries such as fish processing and modern rice milling, the bulk of whose
production is exported, and
(b) Industrial units set up for export market within industrial sub-sectors which
serve both the local market and the export market, such as textiles, carpets,
leather, fruits and vegetables. Units, to qualify under this category, must give a
guarantee to export 50% or more of their total output. In special cases such as
engineering goods, the limit may be reduced to 25% in the first three years and
33% thereafter.
(ii) Sub-contracting arrangements for exports under which manufacturing units
are established in response to specific orders, which are received from the foreign
non-resident firms by local manufacturers as a sub-contractor, and
(iii) Service industry like hotels etc.
10. Features of the Scheme.
The main features of the PAYE Scheme, 1973 are as under:
(a) Advance payment upto 15% of the C & F value of the machinery may be
allowed provided the sponsors give an undertaking that in case machinery is not
imported by the stipulated date, they will repatriate the foreign exchange to
Pakistan or pay to the Government penalty amounting to 27% of the advance
payment or any portion thereof which remains unrepatriated plus interest on it at
the rate of 9% from the date of the remittance.
(b) Projects established under the PAYE Scheme will be allowed a maximum of
50% of the F.O.B. value of their foreign exchange earnings in respect of goods
manufactured and exported by the concerned units established or expanded
under the Scheme for meeting their debt liability and other foreign exchange
payments on account of royalty, technical fee and incidental charges.
(c) If in any financial year, the debt servicing liability cannot be met out of the
prescribed percentage of earnings in that year, the sponsors will have to pay to
the Government penalty to the extent of 27% of the Rupee equivalent of the
short-fall.
(d) If a project has been established against a loan in convertible currency, it will
be required to meet its obligations in convertible currency. Where a project has
been set up on the basis of a loan repayable in commodities, export of
commodities to the lending country will count towards repayment of the loan.
Export against convertible currency made by the units concerned from the new
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
capacity created under the Scheme to countries other than the lending country,
will also count towards repayment of the loan.
11. Procedure for import of machinery and registration of repayment
schedule.
(i) Foreign currency private loan agreements and suppliers credit agreements
including credit agreements under PAYE Scheme as permitted under para 8 ibid
will be submitted to the State Bank for registration through the Authorised Dealer
designated for the purpose within 30 days of the date of Agreement.
(ii) The Authorised Dealer will furnish the original loan/credit agreement
alongwith five copies, a list of the company's Directors, project report showing the
details of the project including its cost (broken into local cost and foreign
exchange cost), location of the project and copy of Certificate of Incorporation of
the company to the Investment Division, Exchange Policy Department, State
Bank of Pakistan, Central Directorate, Karachi. In the case of Buyer's Credit, three
copies of the purchase contract will also be furnished.
(iii) Approval of the Government of Pakistan will also be furnished where the
loan/credit is provided at concessional rates by the banks/financial institutions
under the instructions or policy of the foreign Governments.
(iv) A copy of the loan/credit Agreement registered by the State Bank will be
returned to the Authorised Dealer.
(v) The loan amount from foreign banks/financial institutions can be deposited in
a foreign currency account to be opened under the general permission given vide
paragraph 8 of Chapter VI.
(vi) After registration of the agreement with the State Bank, remittance of down
payment may be made by the Authorised Dealers to the extent provided in the
agreement. Such remittances shall be reported to the concerned area office of
Exchange Policy Department, State Bank of Pakistan, on Form 'I' which, for
statistical purpose is to be coded by them with appropriate commodity code on
Schedule E-2 with Department code as 750.
(vii) Alternatively, the sponsors may arrange a loan for financing down-payment
to the suppliers of plant and machinery. Such a loan will be subject to registration
in accordance with the above procedure.
(viii) In order to establish the value of plant and machinery imported under the
loan/Supplier's Credit, including credits obtained under PAYE Scheme, the
sponsors will, immediately on receipt of the consignment, submit to the area
office of Exchange Policy Department through the designated Authorised Dealer,
the relative import documents viz. Exchange Control copy of Bill of Entry, original
invoice and a copy of letter of credit.
(ix) After the liability to the foreign lender/supplier of plant and machinery as
mentioned in sub-paragraph (viii) has been established, the repayment schedule
as per specimen given at Appendix V- 83 should be submitted for registration to
the Investment Division, Exchange Policy Department, at Karachi in sextuplicate
through the Authorised Dealer which has submitted the loan agreement.
12. Repayment under Pay-As-You-Earn Scheme.
(i) After the repayment schedule has been registered by the State Bank, the
remittances on account of principal and interest will be allowed by the Authorised
Dealer subject to compliance with the requirements set out herein and after
deduction of tax if payable. In case of exemption from income tax, a copy of the
exemption certificate should be attached with the relative 'M' form. The
application for remittance towards repayment of cost of plant and machinery and
interest accrued thereon (instalment) will be submitted on the prescribed form
(Appendix V- 84) to the Authorised Dealer whose name appears on the related
repayment schedule. The application should be signed by the applicant and
certified by the bankers and must be accompanied by Export Realisation
Certificate in the prescribed form (Appendix V- 85). The application will be
accompanied by two forms 'M' i.e. one for the amount of principal and the other
for the amount of interest. Remittances on account of repayment of principal and
payment of interest should be coded by the Authorised Dealers as 1830 and 1220
respectively, on Schedule E-4 with Departmental Code as 775 in each case.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Where the amount of 50% of the FOB value of export earnings of an industrial
unit or enterprise in any financial year, upto the date on which the instalment has
fallen due, is not sufficient to cover the debt liability and other liabilities as laid
down in Clause 7 of the Scheme, the remittance may be allowed by the
Authorised Dealer concerned on submission of an undertaking by the applicant to
the effect that he will submit evidence of having repatriated sufficient export
earnings during the financial year concerned, to cover the remittance and that in
case there is any shortfall, a penalty amounting to 27% of Rupee equivalent of
the excess remittance plus interest thereon @ 9% per annum from the date of
remittance, shall be paid to the State Bank on account of the Federal Government
by the 8th July of the next financial year. This undertaking should be
countersigned by the Authorised Dealer concerned, who should assume
responsibility for the payment of the penalty and interest and forward the
undertaking to the State Bank alongwith the form 'M' covering the remittance.
(ii) In respect of remittances made under the PAYE Scheme, the Authorised
Dealers will send to the State Bank every month statements in triplicate in the
prescribed forms (Appendices V- 86 & V- 87).
(iii) In case any discrepancy is found in the information contained in an
application (V- 84 ) or export realisation certificate (V- 85) on the basis of which
an Authorised Dealer has allowed remittance of principal and interest, the
applicant will be required to arrange for repatriation to Pakistan of the amount, if
any, remitted in excess or alternatively on demand by the State Bank, pay to it
on account of the Federal Government penalty amounting to 27% of Rupee
equivalent of the excess remittance plus interest thereon @ 9% per annum from
the date of remittance. The Authorised Dealer who has allowed the remittance
shall be responsible for compliance with the above requirements including
payment of penalty and interest.
13. Payment of Penalty-Head of Account.
The penalty of 27% recoverable from the applicants under the above Scheme
should be deposited with the State Bank by the concerned project or its bankers
on challans filled in quadruplicate for credit to Federal Government's account with
the State Bank under the head "1000 Non-Tax Receipts1300 Miscellaneous
Receipts-1390 others-Fees, Fines and Forfeitures".
14. Repayments under loans/credits other than PAYE Loans.
(i) After the repayment schedule has been registered by the State Bank, the
remittance on account of principal, interest and other charges will be allowed by
the Authorised Dealers strictly in accordance with the approved schedule.
Remittance of interest will be effected after deduction of tax, if payable. In case
of exemption from income tax, a copy of the exemption certificate should be
attached with the relative 'M' form. Remittances on account of repayment of
principal and interest shall be reported separately on forms 'M' and coded as 1952
and 1212 respectively with Department code 121. Such 'M' forms should be
prominently marked at the top as under:
"Remittance of Principal/Interest under Loan/Supplier's Credit vide Repayment
Schedule Registered with the State Bank under Registration No …………………………"
(ii) In some cases of Loans/Supplier's Credits, interest is payable at a varying rate
linked with LIBOR. In such cases, it would not be possible for the borrowers to
show in advance the exact amount of interest payable with future instalments. It
would be in order for the Authorised Dealers in such cases to remit the actual
amount of interest calculated on the basis of the formula appearing in the
approved contract. They should, however, show the number of days, the
applicable rate and the principal amount on which interest has been paid in the
'M' form.
15. Repatriable Foreign Currency Loans by Foreign Controlled Companies.
(i) Foreign controlled companies are permitted to contract foreign currency loans
from banks/financial institutions abroad or from their Head Offices/or from other
overseas branches/associates for meeting their working capital requirements. The
repayment period should not exceed twelve months and the rate of interest
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
should not exceed 1% over LIBOR. Such loans can however be rolled over for
further periods not exceeding twelve months each.
(ii) Foreign controlled companies, as defined in paragraph 2 ibid, desirous of
availing this facility may approach their bankers (Authorised Dealers), who will
satisfy themselves that the applicant is a foreign controlled company. Once such a
confirmation is obtained, the concerned company may contract the loan and
repatriate the amount for credit to their Rupee account with the Authorised
Dealer.
(iii) The concerned Authorised Dealer will issue a proceeds realisation certificate,
and record the particulars of the loan. On maturity, the Authorised Dealer having
received the inward remittance, will allow payment of interest minus taxes and
repayment of principal. While reporting remittance of interest, a certificate
confirming the applicable LIBOR and a certificate confirming payment of income
tax will be attached with the Form ‘M’. If tax is not payable, a copy of the
exemption certificate issued by the Revenue authorities will be submitted. While
reporting repayment of the principal, a copy of the proceeds realisation certificate
will be attached with the Form ‘M’.
(iv) Branches in Pakistan of foreign companies are not allowed to pay interest on
such loans.
(v) Foreign contractors are not allowed to pay interest on such loans, and they
can repay the loans only after they have completed the contracted work/project
and have submitted clearance certificate from the tax authorities, which should be
attached with the Form ‘M’.
16. Foreign Currency Loans for Financing Exports.
(i) Those exporters who have valid firm commitments with the overseas buyers
for export of goods from Pakistan, may obtain short term loans in foreign
currencies form abroad or through an Authorised Dealer, to the extent of the
value of such firm commitment, to enable them to finance the export of goods
from Pakistan. It is permissible to obtain one consolidated loan for all
LCs/contracts received in a month or covering shipment required to be made
during a month. The Authorised Dealers may issue guarantees to the lenders
subject to compliance with Prudential Regulations in force.
(ii) The Authorised Dealers and borrowers will be free to negotiate the interest
rates on such loans. The maximum tenure of such loans will be the period
generally fixed for repatriation of export proceeds plus a further period of sixty
days. The exchange risk will be borne by the borrower.
(iii) The foreign currency amount of loan will be required to be repatriated to
Pakistan and encashed with an Authorised Dealer. Such inward remittances will
be reported on form ‘R’ Schedule ‘J’ with Code No. 9711.
(iv) In case an exporter utilizes this facility, he will not be eligible to obtain export
finance in local currency from a bank in Pakistan and the facility under the
‘Foreign Currency Export Finance Scheme’ for the same export commitment.
(v) The foreign currency loan will be required to be repaid, along with interest,
out of the related export proceeds. Where an exporter is unable to export goods
against a firm contract/letter of credit against which a foreign currency loan was
obtained, he may repay the loan from the proceeds of export of the same or
other commodity to the same or a different buyer in any country against another
firm contract/letter of credit provided no foreign currency loan has been obtained
against the substituted contract/letter of credit. The exporter will instruct the
Authorised Dealer, through which the loan was received, and which is
negotiating/handling the export documents, to arrange to repay the foreign
currency loan and interest accrued thereon, less tax if payable, to the lending
institution out of the proceeds of the bill. It is not necessary to repatriate the
proceeds of the export bills to Pakistan first and then to arrange remittance in
repayment of the debt. The amounts of the export bills realised abroad can
straight-away be used for repayment of the amount of the relative debt and net
interest. The concerned Authorised Dealer will however, report the realisation of
foreign exchange proceeds of the exports as a ‘purchase’ on Schedule A-1 and the
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
amount of loan and interest paid as ‘sale’. At the time of reporting sale, the
Authorised Dealer will attach with the relative form ‘M’:
(a) Proceeds Realisation Certificate.
(b) Income Tax Officer’s/Auditor’s certificate indicating the amount of tax due on
the interest accrued on the foreign currency loan.
It will be the responsibility of the Authorised Dealer to ensure while arranging
payment/remittance of interest that the payment is made after deduction of tax
leviable thereon.
(vi) In case the loan matures after the export proceeds have been realised, the
export proceeds to the extent required for repayment of the loan and net interest
on the due date, may be retained in a foreign currency account temporarily
opened for this purpose, repayment made on the due date and the account
closed.
(vii) Notwithstanding the utilization of export proceeds for repayment of the loan,
the Authorised Dealers will continue to be liable to deduct income tax as required
by the Tax laws.
(viii) In case the exporter fails to fulfil the export obligations or there is a delay in
realisation of export proceeds, repayment of loan and interest accruing thereon
less taxes, will be made by him from his own resources or from a foreign currency
account.
(ix) In the case of exports to ACU member countries where export proceeds are
not realised in convertible currencies, Authorised Dealers may remit the amounts
of principal/interest from their Nostro balances at the current exchange rate
subject to compliance of the drill laid down in preceding sub-para (v).
17. Foreign Currency Loans for Working Capital and other purposes.
(i) Pakistani firms and companies functioning in Pakistan excluding banks may
obtain foreign private loans on non-repatriable or repatriable basis for their
working capital subject to the following terms and conditions:
(A) NON-REPATRIABLE BASIS:
The loans are contracted on non-repatriable basis on the clear understanding that
such loans would be treated as rupee loans to the extent of rupees generated out
of the inward remittance, neither the principal nor interest/profit would be
remittable abroad at any time and repayment of the loan and payment of
interest/profit would be made in Pakistan.
(B) REPATRIABLE BASIS:
(a) The loan is interest free and for a period not less than one year.
(b) No bank guarantee for securing such loans would be provided from Pakistan.
(c) No forward cover shall be provided.
(d) The Government of Pakistan will not provide the facility of absorption of
exchange risk in such cases.
Agreement for foreign private loans on repatriable basis should be submitted to
the State Bank for registration. After the State Bank has registered the
agreement and the loan amount has been remitted to Pakistan, the repayment
schedule (Appendix V- 83 ) should be submitted to the State Bank for registration
alongwith proceeds realisation certificate. After the repayment schedule has been
registered, the Authorised Dealers would be free to remit the instalments of
principal on the due dates quoting reference of the repayment schedule, in
accordance with the procedure laid down in paragraph 14 ibid. No pre-payments
would be permissible.
(ii) Individuals/firms/companies resident in Pakistan, including foreign controlled
companies and branches of foreign companies operating in Pakistan, but
excluding banks are also permitted to obtain loans from abroad in foreign
currencies on repatriable basis for any purpose on the following terms and
conditions: -
(a) There shall be no ceiling on the amount of loan. The repayment period should
not, however, be less than five years, and the repayments should be made in
equal instalments.
(b) Interest will be payable in arrears on half yearly/yearly basis at a rate not
exceeding the relevant LIBOR + 1.5% and will be subject to deduction of Pakistan
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
taxes as may be leviable under the law. The borrowers shall be free to pay
interest according to the above formula at a fixed or floating rate.
(c) Exchange rate fluctuation risk will be borne by the borrowers and no forward
cover would be provided by the Authorised Dealers in Pakistan.
(d) No bank guarantee for securing such loans would be provided from Pakistan.
(e) The borrower will get the agreement with foreign lenders registered with an
Authorised Dealer who will handle all transactions thereunder and intimate the
details after completion of the disbursements, to the Investment Division at
Karachi in the prescribed proforma (Appendix V- 88) in triplicate alongwith
Proceeds Realisation Certificate(s) in original showing encashment of the loan
amount into Pak Rupees. Thereafter the Authorised Dealer would be free to remit
the instalment(s) of principal and interest, as the case may be, on due dates
strictly in accordance with the terms of repayment intimated to the State Bank.
Prepayments would not be permissible. Remittance of interest will be effected
after deduction of tax, if leviable thereon.
(f) (A) The inward remittances on account of loan disbursement from foreign
lenders may be reported under Code-9821.
(B) Likewise the outward remittance on account of repayment of principal shall be
reported on Form ‘M’ and Coded as 1821.
(C) Remittance of interest will be reported under Code- 1224.
18. Short term Borrowings in Foreign Currency by Authorised Dealers.
Authorised Dealers may, if it becomes necessary in the normal course of their
business but not for the purpose of carrying speculative exchange position etc.,
obtain short-term loans and overdrafts from overseas branches and
correspondents for periods not exceeding seven days at a time. If such loans or
overdrafts are required to be secured by collateral to be lodged in Pakistan or else
where, full details of the proposed arrangements should be furnished to the State
Bank for prior approval.
Interest on short-term loans and overdrafts taken under this para may be
remitted by Authorised Dealers without the prior approval of the State Bank.
19. Long Term Loans by Authorised Dealers.
It is not permissible for Authorised Dealers to obtain long-term loans in foreign
currencies without the prior approval of the State Bank. Application for this
purpose should be made to the State Bank, giving the terms of the proposed loan
and the reasons why it is considered necessary to contract such a loan.
20. Loans and Advances by Authorised Dealers in Foreign Currency.
Authorised Dealers will not grant any loans or overdrafts in foreign currencies,
whether secured or unsecured, without the prior approval of the State Bank.
Applications for this purpose should be made by letter, giving full details of the
purpose for which such loans or overdrafts are required as also the particulars of
the guarantee or collateral, if any, and the manner in which the loans or
overdrafts are expected to be liquidated.
Part C- Guarantees etc.
21. Guarantees on behalf of Foreign Controlled companies.
For the purposes of Section 18(2) of the Act, guarantees that are issued in lieu of
earnest money, security or other cash deposits are treated as extension of credit
to the extent these are not backed by 100% cash deposit. Authorised Dealers
may issue such guarantees on behalf of foreign controlled companies only by
adjustment of the amount from their borrowing entitlement as per Prudential
Regulations. This, however, would not be necessary where guarantee required to
be issued are not in lieu of cash deposit but are either in the nature of
performance bond etc., or are required to be given alongwith the tender
documents in lieu of earnest money deposit. In the latter case, the validity of the
guarantee would be restricted to the period upto which decision about acceptance
or rejection of the relative tender is taken. The State Bank's prior approval will
become necessary if the guarantee is to remain valid even after the decision on
the tender has been taken.
22. Guarantees on behalf of Residents of Pakistan in favour of Non-
residents.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(i) Except in cases covered by paragraphs 24 and 26 ibid, prior approval of the
State Bank is required for giving any guarantee or undertaking or opening of a
letter of credit, the implementation of which may involve payment to a non-
resident either in foreign currency or Rupees. Applications seeking permission for
giving such guarantee or undertaking should be made by letter giving full
particulars of the guarantee or under-taking viz., the amount, the period and the
purpose of the guarantee and the terms of payment in the event of the guarantee
being implemented. These restrictions also apply to renewal of such guarantees,
undertakings, letters of credit etc. While forwarding applications for renewal to
the State Bank, Authorised Dealers should state the extent upto which the
facilities covered by the guarantees were utilised during the previous twelve
months or during the validity of the guarantees etc., if the period involved is less
than 12 months.
(ii) Authorised Dealers may, however, issue guarantees in favour of foreign
suppliers/lenders to cover repayment of loan and payment of interest under
Foreign Private Loan/Suppliers Credit including credits under PAYE Scheme in
accordance with the terms and conditions of the agreement as registered by State
Bank, under intimation to Investment Division at Karachi.
23. Guarantees on behalf of Non-Residents in favour of Residents of
Pakistan.
Prior approval of the State Bank is ruired for giving guarantees or undertakings in
favour of residents in Pakistan either on behalf of non-residents or against
overseas guarantees or collaterals lodged outside Pakistan. This restriction does
not, however, apply to cases covered under paras 27 and 28 or where the
guarantee is being extended by the Authorised Dealer on the basis of a back-to-
back guarantee from its overseas branch or correspondent. Applications for this
purpose should be made by letter giving full particulars including the amount, the
period and the purpose of the guarantee and the manner in which the Authorised
Dealer will be reimbursed in the event of the guarantee being implemented.
Renewal of such guarantees also requires the prior permission of the State Bank.
While forwarding applications, Authorised Dealers should state the extent to
which the facilities covered by the guarantee or undertaking etc., have been
utilized during the previous 12 months or such shorter period for which the
facilities have been available.
24. Performance/Bid Bond Guarantees.
Authorised Dealers, National Insurance Company Limited, Pakistan Insurance
Corporation and those Insurance Companies whose exposure limits have been
fixed by the Controller of Insurance for the above purpose (particulars of
Insurance Companies could be obtained from the Controller of Insurance) may
issue Performance or Bid Bond Guarantees on behalf of exporters, members of
recognized Consultancy/Construction Associations and Companies approved by
Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) in Pakistan subject to the following conditions:
a. Tenders specifically call for furnishing of such guarantees.
b. The beneficiary abroad is a foreign Government or a Government sponsored
Organization or private company or a firm.
c. The tenderer is a bonafide exporter or a manufacturer of the commodity which
is specified in the tender and there is no restriction on its export from Pakistan.
d. In case of Consultancy/Construction firms and Engineering firms recognized by
Pakistan Engineering Council, the organization issuing the performance or bid
bond must satisfy itself that the tenderer is a bonafide Consultancy/Engineering
firm, having the requisite financial and technical resources and there are
reasonable prospects of their being able to successfully execute the contract.
Companies with poor track record will not be eligible.
25. Remittances under Guarantees or Performance Bonds and their
Reporting to the State Bank.
Authorised Dealers may make remittances against the Performance Guarantees
or bonds issued by them or the Pakistan Insurance Corporation or National
Insurance Company Limited or those Insurance Companies whose exposure limits
have been fixed by the Controller of Insurance in terms of Para 24 ibid, if
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
CHAPTER XX
SECURITIES
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
1. Definitions.
2. Import of Securities.
6. General Exemption.
8. Issue of Securities and NIT Units to Persons Resident outside Pakistan on non-
repatriation basis and its transfer on the same basis.
10. Special Instructions regarding shares transferred under Central Depository System
(CDS) of Central Depository Companies.
11. Investment by branches of Foreign Banks and Foreign Controlled Investment Banks.
12. Export and Transfer of Foreign Exchange Bearer Certificates/U. S. Dollar Bearer
Certificates/Five Years Foreign Currency Bearer Certificates/Special U.S. Dollar Bonds.
16. Under-writing of shares, term certificates and Modaraba certificates by foreign banks.
1. Definitions.
Section 2 of the Act defines "security" as shares, stocks, bonds, debentures, debenture
stock and Government securities as defined in the Securities Act, 1920, deposit receipts in respect
of deposit of securities and units or sub-units of unit trusts but does not include bills of exchange
or promissory notes other than Government promissory notes. A "foreign security" is defined as a
security issued elsewhere than in Pakistan and any security the principal of or interest on which is
payable in any foreign currency or elsewhere than in Pakistan. For the purpose of Section 13 of
the Act, the term "security" also includes coupons or warrants representing dividends or interest
and life or endowment insurance policies.
For the purposes of Section 13 of the Act, the term "a person resident outside Pakistan"
covers a foreign national including a foreign national of Indo-Pakistan origin as also a Pakistani
holding dual nationality for the time being resident in Pakistan and a company registered in
Pakistan which is controlled directly or indirectly by a person resident outside Pakistan. In this
connection a reference is also invited to para 2 of Chapter-XIX.
2. Import of Securities.
There are no restrictions under the Act on import into Pakistan of any securities whether
Pakistani or foreign.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
A Pakistan national resident in Pakistan who is, or becomes owner of foreign securities is
permitted to hold or retain such securities provided he has acquired them in a manner not
involving a breach or violation of the Foreign Exchange regulations. In terms of clause (a) of sub-
section 1 of Section 13 of the Act, the taking or sending of any securities to any place outside
Pakistan except with the general or special permission of the State Bank, is prohibited. Persons in
Pakistan who are holders of foreign securities and who wish to send such securities to banks,
brokers or agents abroad for purpose of sale, transfer, etc., should apply to the State Bank
through an Authorised Dealer for necessary export licence.
Permission for export of such securities will be granted provided the securities are sent
through an Authorised Dealer who should give an undertaking that the securities will be received
back in Pakistan within a specified period or in the case of sale, the sale proceeds in foreign
currency will be repatriated to Pakistan. State Bank may also consider applications for exchange of
foreign shares and/or securities held by residents of Pakistan with Pakistan shares and/or
securities held by residents abroad. Applications for this purpose should be made to the State
Bank through an Authorised Dealer or stock and share broker.
Pakistan nationals as also "persons resident outside Pakistan" holding Pakistani securities
desirous of sending or taking out the Pakistani securities not covered under the succeeding
paragraphs 6 & 7 are required to obtain prior permission of the State Bank. Application for the
purpose should be made to the State Bank through an Authorised Dealer.
In terms of clause (b) of sub-section 1 of Section 13 of the Act, transfer of any security
or creation or transfer of any interest in a security to, or in favour of "a person resident outside
Pakistan" is prohibited except with the general or special permission of the State Bank. The above
prohibition applies to transfer of (i) all Pakistani securities (i.e. securities expressed to be payable
in Pakistan currency or registered in Pakistan) whether held by persons resident in or outside
Pakistan and (ii) all foreign securities held by Pakistan nationals. Pledging or hypothecation of
securities to or in favour of non-residents e.g., as collateral or security for credit facilities abroad,
(see Chapter XIX) or utilizing them for forming trusts or settlements of which a non-resident is the
beneficiary is also prohibited under Section 13 of the Act. In the case of securities registered in
Pakistan, the companies concerned must obtain permission of the State Bank before registering its
transfer in the name of "persons resident outside Pakistan". In terms of Section 13 of the Act,
Authorised Dealers are required to obtain permission of the State Bank before purchasing shares
or securities registered in Pakistan on behalf of "persons resident outside Pakistan".
6. General Exemption.
The State Bank has granted general exemption from the provision of section 13(1) of the
Act in connection with the issue, transfer and export of securities on repatriation basis as
mentioned in sub para (B) to those non residents who are covered by sub para (A) provided:
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
i) the issue price or purchase price as applicable, is paid in foreign exchange through normal banking
channel by remittance from abroad or out of foreign currency account maintained by the
subscriber/purchaser in Pakistan, except in case of issue of bonus shares and transfer of shares as
stated in sub-paragraph B(v).
ii) The purchase price (whether negotiated privately or otherwise) is not less than the price quoted on
the stock exchanges of the country, in the case of listed securities, and the break up value of
shares, as certified by a practicing Chartered Accountant, in the case of unlisted securities.
(II) A person who holds dual nationality including Pakistan nationality, whether living in or outside
Pakistan.
(IV) A firm (including a partnership) or trust or mutual fund registered and functioning outside
Pakistan, excluding entities owned or controlled by a foreign government.
(I) Issue of shares including Modaraba Certificates/Trust and Fund Units out of new public offers,
irrespective of the nature of business of the company.
(II) Transfer of shares quoted on Stock Exchanges of the country, irrespective of the nature of business
of the company.
(III) Private placement of new/initial shares with foreign investors by a public or private limited
company, which is,
(a) a manufacturing company (for this purpose, power generation companies/energy related
infrastructure companies, producers of computer software and companies established to set up
software technology parks i.e. technology centres for developing computer Software
packages/programs are treated as manufacturing concerns).
(b) engaged in those activities in Service, Infrastructure, Social and Agriculture etc. Sectors which
are open to foreign investors as per prevalent Investment Policy of the Government provided the
conditions prescribed therein have been fulfilled and ‘Entitlement Certificate’ certifying the value of
foreign investment obtained from the State Bank of Pakistan.
(V) Transfer of Pakistani securities held by a “ person resident outside Pakistan” on repatriable basis to
other eligible ‘persons resident outside Pakistan’ on the same basis against payment outside
Pakistan, provided a certificate to this effect is given by the transferee to the company
concerned.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(VI) Issue of rights shares and bonus shares in all those cases where shares are held on repatriable
basis by ‘persons resident outside Pakistan’ in accordance with the general or special permission
of the State Bank.
(VIII) Issue/transfer of rupee denominated corporate debt instruments viz. Participation Term
Certificates/Term Finance Certificates etc. and Registered WAPDA Bonds as permitted under the
relevant SRO governing issue and sale of such bonds.
(IX) Issue of NIT Units to persons mentioned in sub para (A) (I, II & III).
(C) Companies issuing shares to a ‘person resident outside Pakistan/registering transfer of shares in
favour of such persons, in accordance with the exemptions provided in sub paragraphs (A) and
(B) and the buyers and the sellers of the shares so issued or transferred are exempted from the
operation of restrictions contained in Section 18(1) of the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947.
(i) Companies issuing shares out of new public offers on repatriable basis, as permitted under sub
para (B) (I) of preceding paragraph 6, may open foreign currency collection accounts with banks
abroad or in Pakistan for receiving the subscription in foreign currency. They may also allow
refunds from these accounts to unsuccessful applicants. The amount subscribed by the successful
applicants should be repatriated to Pakistan and foreign currency accounts closed within a week of
allotment of shares. Proceeds Realisation Certificate in evidence of subscription money having
been repatriated to Pakistan shall be obtained by the company from the concerned Authorised
Dealer for submission in original to the designated Authorised Dealer with the form prescribed at
Appendix V- 90.
(ii) In the case of remittance of subscription money directly to Pakistan and its payment to the
company’s rupee account, shares may be issued for the rupee equivalent paid by the concerned
Authorised Dealer as shown in the Proceeds Realisation Certificate (s).
(iii) In case shares are to be issued to non-resident sponsors against the value of plant and
machinery supplied by them, an application should be submitted to the area office of the
Exchange Policy Department for issue of an Exchange Entitlement Certificate along with the
relative import documents viz. original invoices, original bills of entry, copies of bills of lading or
airway bills and import permit/import authorisation from Export Promotion Bureau, if applicable.
The Exchange Entitlement Certificate will be issued by the State Bank at the average of selected
Authorised Dealers’ buying and selling rates on the dates of filing of bills of entry with the
Customs. Once the Exchange Entitlement Certificate has been issued by the State Bank, the
company may issue the shares upto the value mentioned in the Certificate to the non-resident
sponsors.
(iv) In case the non-resident sponsors want to pay their contribution to the equity in foreign
currency and such payments are retained in a foreign currency account opened with an
Authorised Dealer in Pakistan, in terms of paragraph 8 (ii) of Chapter VI of this Manual, the
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealer concerned will issue a Certificate showing date-wise deposit of equity in the
account and its buying exchange rate for the respective currency prevailing on the date on which
the amount is credited to the company’s foreign currency account. The company may issue shares
after receipt of money in its account for the equivalent Rupee amount at the exchange rate shown
in the Certificate.
(v) At the request of the company, the State Bank shall authorise an Authorised Dealer for the
purpose of remittance of dividend to non-resident shareholders as per procedure outlined in para
14, Chapter XIV of the Manual.
(vi) The shares issued/transferred to non resident shareholders shall be intimated by the company to
the designated Authorised Dealer within 30 days of issue/transfer on the form prescribed in
App.V- 90 or App.V- 91, as the case may be, alongwith the following documents and other legal
documents viz. Memorandum and Articles of Association, Certificate of Incorporation/Registration
etc., if not already submitted :-
a) In case of issue of ordinary shares out of public offers under paragraph 6 (B) (I) Bank’s Proceeds
Realisation Certificate (PRCs) in original with copy of the consent/permission of the Securities &
Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
b) In case of issue of ordinary shares through private placement against equity repatriated to Pakistan
under paragraph 6 (B)(III)(a) PRCs in original.
c) In case of issuance of shares of companies other than manufacturing under paragraph 6 (B) (III)
(b) Entitlment Certificate obtained from the State Bank of Pakistan (Investment Division,
Exchange Policy Department) Central Directorate, Karachi by submitting the following through a
nominated Authorised Dealer:-
1. Encashment Certificate (EC) and/or Proceeds Realisation Certificate (PRC) from an Authorised
Dealer in original showing the amount of foreign currency received and its Rupee equivalent paid
to the company. Where the whole or part of the foreign equity is retained in Special Foreign
Currency Account the 'Entitlement Certificate' will be issued after the foreign equity contribution
has been credited to the foreign currency account of the company.
4. Particulars of sponsor shareholders with name, address, nationality, proposed number and
face value of shares to be issued.
d) In case of issue of rights shares under paragraph 6 (B) (VI) PRCs in original with copy of Board’s
Resolution.
e) In case of issue of bonus shares under paragraph 6 (B) (VI) App. V- 91, a copy of Board’s
Resolution, Auditor’s certificate to the effect that issuance of bonus shares is in accordance with
the existing applicable laws and the audited accounts for the respective year.
f) In case of issue of ordinary shares against equity contributed in the shape of plant and machinery
under paragraph 7 (iii) Exchange Entitlement Certificate issued by the State Bank in original.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
g) In case of issue of ordinary shares under paragraph 7 (iv) against equity deposited in a foreign
currency account for import of plant & machinery, Account holding bank’s certificate in original.
h) In case of transfer of listed shares under paragraph 6 (B) (II) Stock Broker’s Memo and PRCs in
respect of the cost of shares and transfer stamp money, both in original. Where the sale of shares
is negotiated privately, documents establishing the deal and the price of the share on Stock
Exchange on the date of deal, should be furnished.
i) In case of transfer of shares of un-listed companies under paragraph 6 (B) (IV) Auditor’s certificate
for break-up value in original, a copy of the audited accounts of the respective year, documentary
evidence of the agreed sale price and original PRCs in respect of cost of shares and transfer stamp
money.
j ) In case of transfer of shares from one non-resident to another non-resident against payment
outside Pakistan under paragraph 6 (B) (V), certificate from the transferee and PRCs for transfer
stamp duty both in original.
k) In case of issue of Government Securities, issue/transfer of debt instruments and issue of NIT Units
under paragraph 6 (B) (VII), (VIII) and (IX), PRCs in original with copies of related documents.
(vii) Subject to observance of the procedure outlined above, the companies issuing/registering
transfer of shares in favour of non residents on repatriation basis, may export the share
certificates through the designated Authorised Dealer to the shareholders. The designated
Authorised Dealer shall also allow remittances in respect of the following:-
(II) Disinvestment proceeds not exceeding the market value (in case of listed
securities)/break up value (in case of unlisted securities) less brokerage/commission
on submission of:
(b) Name and address of the company whose shares were sold by the non-resident beneficiary,
indicating whether it is a listed or unlisted/private limited company and is covered under para 6
ibid. ( This requirement may be waived by the Authorised Dealer in case of quoted shares).
(c) Name, address and residential status of the buyer of the shares in question.
(d) Copy of broker’s memo in case of quoted shares/break up value certificate of a practicing Chartered
Accountant in case of unlisted shares.
(viii) The designated Authorised Dealer shall maintain complete record of the shares held by non
residents including proof of original investment in foreign exchange and other documents detailed
above and shall produce the same for audit by the Inspection Team of the State Bank. No record
shall be destroyed unless the same has been audited by the State Bank’s inspectors.
8. Issue of Securities and NIT Units to Persons Resident outside Pakistan on non-
repatriation basis and its transfer on the same basis.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(i) It is permissible to issue Pakistani Securities of all types including NIT Units but excluding
shares of companies not quoted on stock exchange, in favour of persons resident outside
Pakistan, on non- repatriation basis, if payment is made either in foreign exchange or in Pakistan
rupees provided the securities are registered at the Pakistan address of the purchaser and a clear
undertaking is furnished by him that no repatriation of capital and profits/dividends accruing
thereon will be claimed at any stage.
(ii) Such securities may also be transferred to a person, whether resident in or outside Pakistan,
on the same basis, provided the securities are registered at the Pakistan address of the purchaser
and a clear undertaking is given by him that no repatriation of capital and profit/dividend accruing
thereon will be claimed at any stage.
( iii) A person resident outside Pakistan holding shares on non- repatriation basis may also be
issued bonus/right shares as per his entitlement, on the basis of non-repatriation of capital and
dividend.
9.(a) Trading of Quoted Shares by Non-Residents.
(i) Non-residents are allowed to trade freely in the shares quoted on the Stock Exchanges
in Pakistan. For this purpose the non-residents will be required to open "Special Convertible
Rupee Account" with any Authorised Dealer in Pakistan. Such accounts can be fed by remittances
from abroad or by transfer from a foreign currency account maintained by the non-resident
investor in Pakistan. The balance available therein can be used for purchase of any share quoted
on the Stock Exchange. Payment for such purchases may be debited to the account on production
of stock broker's memo showing sale of shares to the account holder and disinvestments
proceeds may be credited provided evidence of the sale price in the shape of stock broker's
memo is produced. The fund available in such special accounts can be transferred outside Pakistan
or credited to a foreign currency account maintained in Pakistan at any time without prior
approval of the State Bank. These accounts can also be credited with dividend income. Transfers
from one such account to another may also be made in case of transfer of shares between the two
account-holders.
(ii) The commission earned by the international brokers from their overseas clients and
credited net of taxes to the broker’s SCRA account may be remitted by the Authorised Dealers
provided the funds so credited have emanated from inward remittances or paid out of SCRA of
the investor.
(iii) Authorised Dealers will be required to submit to the Director, Statistics Department,
State Bank of Pakistan, Central Directorate, Karachi a statement in the prescribed proforma
(Appendix V- 92) on weekly basis showing the position in respect of SCRA accounts as on each
Saturday. The statement should reach the State Bank within two working days from the close of
the week to which it pertains.
(b) Trading of Federal Investment Bonds, Pakistan Investment Bonds, Treasury Bills,
Registered Corporate Debt Instruments and WAPDA’s Registered Bonds listed with
Stock Exchange in the Secondary Market.
Non-residents are allowed to trade freely in Federal Investment Bonds (FIBs), Pakistan
Investment Bonds (PIBs), Treasury Bills (TBs), Registered corporate debt instruments and
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
WAPDA’s Registered Bonds listed with stock exchanges if the relevant S.R.Os permit non-residents
to hold the bonds in the secondary market, through Special Convertible Rupee Accounts subject to
the instructions applicable to these accounts as contained in the preceding sub-paragraph (a).
10. Special Instructions regarding shares transferred under Central Depository System
(CDS) of Central Depository Companies.
(i) General.
Separate account or sub-account will be opened & maintained at CDC for each non-
resident investor eligible for investment in registered shares/securities quoted at stock exchange
in Pakistan.
It must be ensured that all transactions at CDS i.e., deposit into or withdrawal from the
account/sub-account of a non-resident is supported by actual movement of funds. In other words,
there should not be any netting/adjustments and payment/receipt in respect of each
purchase/sale should be settled independent of other transactions of the non-resident. In case the
investment by the non-resident is made/routed through his Special Convertible Rupee Account
(SCRA) maintained with an Authorised Dealer in Pakistan, the SCRA should never show an
overdrawn position.
(a) Where investments are made through GDRs, the Authorised Dealer concerned will continue to
ensure that complete/proper record of all transactions is kept at their end and the prescribed
statements of SCRAs are furnished to the State Bank as usual, as at present documents involving
such investment would not be required to be submitted to the company at any stage.
(b) In case of investments not involving SCRA, the original documents as listed at (ii) above will
be submitted as usual to the respective company by the ‘Participant’ concerned alongwith a
certificate that the shares are in the name of CDS and have since been deposited into/withdrawn
from the respective non-resident’s account at CDS. The company after making necessary entry in
its record to update CDC’s non-resident holding, will furnish the same to the designated
Authorised Dealer. The Authorised Dealer will keep these documents in its record for onward
submission to State Bank in the prescribed manner alongwith returns pertaining to dividend/bonus
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
or right issue and will as usual make the remittance of disinvestment proceeds of such shares
subject to the prescribed drill/rules.
CDC will issue to the respective company a list of beneficial non-resident shareholders
certifying their individual holding as on Ex-date of dividend/bonus/right in the form appearing at
Appendix V-93. Before issue of dividend warrant or allotment of bonus/right shares, the company
will verify the holding of non-residents not involving SCRAs from its record including those as
mentioned in sub-para (iii) (b) and for the non-residents investing through SCRAs, it will obtain an
undertaking-cum-certificate from the Authorised Dealer concerned on the form appearing at
Appendix V-94, and on the basis of this undertaking-cum certificate it will certify Appendix V-50 &
V-90 and V-91 for such shares. The aforesaid list provided by CDS will invariably be attached by
the company to the aforesaid returns.
11. Investment by branches of Foreign Banks and Foreign Controlled Investment Banks.
12. Export and Transfer of Foreign Exchange Bearer Certificates/U.S. Dollar Bearer
Certificates/Five Years Foreign Currency Bearer Certificates/Special U.S. Dollar Bonds.
State Bank of Pakistan vide its Notification No.F.E. 1/92-SB dated the 30th July, 1992
(App. III-10) has granted general permission for doing various acts referred to in Section 13 of
the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act, 1947 in relation to Foreign Exchange Bearer Certificates
issued under the Foreign Exchange Bearer Certificates Rules 1985, U. S. Dollar Bearer Certificates
issued under the U. S. Dollar Bearer Certificates Rules 1991 and Five Years Foreign Currency
Bearer Certificates issued under Five Years Foreign Currency Bearer Certificates Rules 1992. . The
Bank has also allowed vide FE Circular No 42 of 1998 read with FE Circular No 44 of 1998 the
export of Special U. S. Dollar Bonds issued to the non-residents.
Clauses (c) and (d) of sub-section (1) of Section 13 of the Act prohibit, respectively,
transfers of securities from registers in Pakistan to registers outside Pakistan and the issuing,
whether in Pakistan or elsewhere, of securities which are registered or to be registered in
Pakistan, to "persons resident outside Pakistan" except with the general or special permission of
the State Bank.
Under Section 19(I) of the Act, the Federal Government have issued Notification No.I(1)-
2-FE/56 dated the 1st August, 1956, (Appendix II-7) requiring all persons resident in Pakistan
who are or become the owners of any security in respect of which the principal, interest or
dividends is or are payable in the currency of any foreign country or in respect of which the owner
has the option to acquire the payment of principal, interest or dividends in such currencies, to
make a return to the State Bank within one month of their acquiring the securities, giving
particulars in respect of the said securities. The specimen of the form in which these particulars
are required to be furnished in duplicate is given at Appendix V-96. Such a return is not required
to be made in respect of the securities mentioned in paragraph 12 ibid. Foreign nationals residing
in Pakistan are not required to submit the above returns.
16. Under-writing of shares, term certificates and Modaraba certificates by foreign banks.
CHAPTER XXI
Notification No.S.R.0.1016(I)/79 dated the 17th October, 1979 (Appendix II-8) issued by
the Federal Government pursuant to Section 9 of the Act requires all citizens of Pakistan and other
persons residing in Pakistan continuously for 6 months or more, who become the owner of any
foreign exchange, whether held in Pakistan or abroad, to sell such foreign exchange to an
Authorised Dealer within three months of the date of acquisition by them of such foreign
exchange. In the case of foreign nationals or foreign business houses, however, the above
provision is applicable only to the extent of their earnings abroad in respect of business conducted
in Pakistan or services rendered while in Pakistan.
Indenting Houses/Tour Operators and Trade Marks/Patent Agents and Attorneys are required to
file with the State Bank, the following documents/ information in respect of their foreign exchange
earnings:
Half yearly statement of their commission earnings in foreign exchange in the prescribed form
(Appendix V-97) as on 30th June and 31st December each year along with a copy of each agency
agreement entered into by them with foreign suppliers. This statement is required to be submitted
only by those Indenting Houses / Agents whose indenting income exceeds US $ 100,000/-, and
should reach the State Bank within two months after each half year.
(a) Half yearly statement in the prescribed form (Appendix V-98) showing the amount of foreign
exchange received by them on account of services rendered to foreign tourists. The aforesaid
statement should show the position as of 30th June and 31st December each year and reach the
State Bank within two months after each half year.
(b) A certified copy of each agency agreement entered into with foreign tour operators and airlines etc.
In cases where the business is undertaken on the basis of special terms and conditions not
covered by any agency agreement, authenticated copies of the relative correspondence on the
basis of which the rates have been finalized, should accompany the above half yearly statement.
(c) Tour Operators who are earning foreign exchange on account of services rendered to foreign
tourists and are reporting such invisible earnings to the State Bank in the manner prescribed in
sub-para (a) above are allowed to retain upto 35% of their net foreign exchange earnings in
foreign currency accounts, vide paragraph 33 Chapter XII of the Manual. Those Tour Operators
who intend to use these funds for opening of offices abroad may approach the Joint Director,
Investment Division, Exchange Policy Department, State Bank of Pakistan, Central Directorate,
Karachi in the matter.
(a) Half yearly statement in the prescribed form (Appendix V- 99) showing the foreign exchange
received by them on account of Government fees and their own professional charges. The
statement should show the position as of 30th June and 31st December each year and reach the
State Bank within two months after each half year.
(b) A certified copy of the agreement entered into by them with foreign clients. In case business is
undertaken on the basis of special terms and conditions not covered by any standing agreement,
authenticated copies of the relative correspondence exchanged between the foreign client and the
Pakistani Patent Agent/Attorney should accompany the statement.
CHAPTER XXII
1. Maintenance of Record.
4. Coding of Transactions.
12. Method of Despatch of Statements “S-1”, “S-4”, “S-5” and “S-6” to the State Bank.
1. Maintenance of Record.
The system of reporting transactions is designed to compile figures on the basis of actual
entries in the currency accounts so that there are no suspense items. Authorised Dealers
should report transactions as per following procedure:
(i) EXPORTS
Sometimes Authorised Dealers also purchase export bills drawn on collection basis.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Transactions relating to such export bills should be reported as an outright purchase against
"Exports" in the summary statement after the transaction is put through the currency
account on receipt of advice of realisation of the export proceeds.
The procedure indicated in sub-paragraph (i) (a) above should also be followed with regard
to D.Ds. and M. Ts. etc. In other words, purchases in respect of D.Ds. and M.Ts. etc., should
be reported only when the transactions are put through the currency accounts.
(iii) IMPORTS
a) In case of import bills drawn under letters of credit, the foreign currency accounts of the
Authorised Dealers are debited at the time of negotiation of documents by their foreign
correspondents. Accordingly, sales on account of import bills drawn under confirmed and
irrevocable letters of credit should be reported when the transaction is put through the
currency account on receipt of import documents and not on the basis of retirement of bills
by the importers.
b) All sales on account of imports are required to be supported by the original copy of the
Form ‘I’. In view of the time-lag between the date of receipt of the import bills and the date
of their retirement by the importers, it may not be possible to submit original copy of Form ‘I’
duly signed by the importers. In such cases, Authorised Dealers should fill in the
quadruplicate copy of the Form ‘I’ and submit it alongwith the relevant schedule and the
summary statement. The original copy of the Form ‘I’ should be submitted after it has been
signed by the importer, which will be at the time of retirement of the bill.
c) Authorised Dealers will forward to the State Bank a monthly statement showing particulars
of the Form ‘I’originals of which have not been sent by them to the State Bank, giving
reasons for their non-submission. These statements should reach the State Bank by the 7th
of the following month and should bear running serial numbers.
d) With regard to import bills received on collection basis, the transactions will be reported on
Schedule E-2 supported by original Form ‘I’.
Transactions relating to D.Ds. and M.Ts. issued by the Authorised Dealers should also be
reported only at the time entries are made in the currency accounts.
Non-resident Rupee accounts of foreign banks and correspondents including barter accounts
should also be reported by Authorised Dealers in the manner indicated in this para.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
4. Coding of Transactions.
Authorised Dealers are required to give code numbers for all transactions pertaining
to receipts as well as payments whether under cash, loan, credits or barter on the relevant
prescribed forms as also in the columns provided in the relevant schedules, excepting stubs
given on the right hand top of the schedules relating to "Period", "Authorised Dealer" and
"Currency" whose coding is done in the State Bank.
Code-3 COUNTRY
Code-8 DEPARTMENTS
For entering code numbers on various schedules, the code lists mentioned below
against each schedule should be referred to :
The stubs earmarked for 'Department' are to be used in cases of transactions relating to
imports and invisible payments. All payments by Government and Semi-Government
agencies out of cash resources should be correctly co-related with those given in Code-8 and
code number given accordingly. Where payments for imports or invisibles are made by
private parties out of cash resources, the Code No.501 of Code-8 will be given under
'Department'.
Authorised Dealers should ensure that the description of transactions given in the
relevant forms conforms to the nomenclature given in the Code Lists. Coding should be done
with extreme care. It is advisable to entrust the Coding work to experienced and responsible
members of the staff. To guard against any possible misclassification, coding should be got
checked independently. For all amounts equivalent to Rs. 1 Lac and above, the checking of
codes should be done by supervisory staff.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealers should report to the State Bank particulars of foreign exchange
transactions effected by them i.e. all outward and inward remittances made whether through
their accounts in foreign currencies or through the Rupee accounts of non-resident banks. For
this purpose, Authorised Dealers should submit to the State Bank a summarized statement of
their transactions in each currency in which a position is maintained by them and also
summary statement of transactions effected on the Rupee accounts of non-resident banks
maintained with them for each month, reaching the respective area office of the Exchange
Policy Department by the 3rd of the following month from branches and by the 10th from
Head/Principal Offices of Authorised Dealers.
i) Each summarized statement will be an abstract of the Authorised Dealer's ledger account
and will consist of totals under specified heads. Opening and Closing balances should be
added making each summary a complete and balanced statement.
ii) Authorised Dealers will complete one "S-4" statement for each period in which
consolidated figures of all non-resident bank accounts maintained with them will be given. It
will not be necessary to complete a separate "S-4" statement for each non-resident bank
account.
iii) The Head/Principal Offices of the designated banks maintaining the barter accounts will
incorporate their branch transactions against the respective heads provided in the summary
statement. For this purpose, the branches of the designated banks will forward every month
copies of the related coded schedules, showing their transactions under each barter
agreement to their Head/Principal Offices, which should prepare one consolidated statement
and relative schedules for each barter agreement on the basis of entries passed through the
respective barter accounts.
In the case of exports under barter arrangements, Authorised Dealers should affix
rubber stamp on the relative Form 'E' with the following narration: -
The branches of the designated banks shall submit the relative forms and schedules
alongwith "S-5" statement to the area offices of the Exchange Policy Department.
To support the details of the totals entered in the summarized statements, every
statement must be accompanied by schedules and the relative forms as indicated in the
summarized statements. The schedules should be compiled as under :
Schedules "A-1", "A-2", "A-3", "J", "E-2", "E-3" and "E-4" are given combined
heading as follows:
Combined headings have been provided to facilitate preparation of Schedules 'O' &
'P' in respect of transactions of branches, which do not maintain independent currency
positions, but operate on the foreign currency accounts of the Head/Principal Office/another
branch and themselves submit unbalanced Summary Statements "S-1" and "S-4" to their
area offices of the Exchange Policy Department. The procedure for preparation of these
schedules by the branches, which do not maintain independent currency positions is given
subsequently in this para.
SCHEDULES "A-1", "A-2" and "A-3" (APPENDICES V- 104, V- 105 and V- 106):
SCHEDULE "A-1": In cases where Form 'E' is certified against a purchase of foreign
currencies or debit to non-resident Rupee account, the transaction must be listed on a
relative Schedule "A-1" in triplicate showing the number of the Form 'E' and the amount.
SCHEDULE "A-2": In cases where no Form 'E' is certified at the time of purchase of
foreign currency or debit to non-resident Rupee account, the particulars will be listed on
Schedule "A-2" in triplicate. Such cases will fall into two categories:
ii) Part realisation where the triplicate of the Form 'E'' will be lodged with the
State Bank at the time when final proceeds are received.
If an advance payment is received for an export, the Authorised Dealer must make
out an "Advance Payment Voucher" (Appendix V-18). When the Form 'E' is ultimately made
out and a deduction shown for the advance payment, the date of the "Advance Payment
Voucher" must be stated on the Form 'E'.
When proceeds of exports are received and the Form 'E' is not available or in case
of part realisation, a voucher "Export Receipts: Form 'E' not attached" (Appendix V- 111)
must be completed.
"Advance Payment" and "Export Receipts: Form 'E' not attached" voucher must be
listed on Schedule "A-2".
SCHEDULE "A-3": In cases where 'E' Form is certified against purchase of foreign
currencies or debit to non-resident Rupee account for re-export of imported goods the
transaction will be listed on Schedule A-3 in triplicate.
Totals of Schedules "A-1", "A-2" and "A-3" must be cast and the total of "A-2" and
"A-3" brought forward to "A-1" and grand total shown on "A-1" which must agree with the
amount entered on the summary statement. Even in cases where there are no certified
Forms 'E' to be submitted with the return, an "A-1" Schedule should be completed showing a
nil figure and giving the total figure of "A-2", making up the grand total on "A-1".
For every item on Schedules "A-1", "A-2" and "A-3" a certified copy of Forms 'E' or
a voucher, as applicable, must be enclosed. Conversely, for every voucher or Forms 'E'
enclosed, there must be an item on the appropriate schedule. No Forms 'E' should be
enclosed with the returns against which no receipt is being reported on the return. The forms
and vouchers must be sorted in the order they are listed. If more than one schedule sheet is
used, the sheets must be serially numbered and pinned together.
While reporting export receipts, separate schedules ( "A-1", "A-2" and "A-3") should
be prepared for receipts on account of exporters residing in the jurisdiction of area offices of
the Exchange Policy Department other than the area office to which the 'Returns' are being
submitted. Such schedules should be prepared area-wise with one additional copy. The name
of the area office to which the schedules pertain should be prominently written on the top
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
thereof. Separate Schedules "A-1", "A-2" and "A-3" must be attached to the summary
statement relating to each currency. It is not permitted, for example, to enter the Forms 'E'
in U.S. dollars and Pound Sterling on the same summary statement.
Foreign currencies purchased from and sold to the State Bank must be entered on
Schedule "D" and totals entered on the "S-I" statements.
SCHEDULES "E-2", "E-3" and "E-4" (APPENDICES V- 108, V- 109 and V- 110).
Forms relating to sales of foreign currencies to the public must be listed as under:
As with Schedules "A-1" and "A-2", separate schedule must be made out for each
currency and attached to the respective "S-1", "S-4", "S-5" or "S-6" statement. For every
item listed in the schedule there must be a payment Form "I", "T-1" or "M" as appropriate to
the transaction and these forms must accompany the relative schedules. No forms should be
submitted which are not listed on the schedules.
sales in the schedule must agree with the amount entered against item "Sales against
purchase of other Foreign Currency" on the sales side of "S-1" statement.
All Forms "R" and "IRV" must be listed on Schedule "J" and a separate list should be
made for each currency. The schedules must be attached to the relative "S-1", "S-4", "S-5"
or "S-6" statement and the totals on the schedule must agree with those entered in the
statements. For every item appearing in the schedule, a "R" Form/"IRV" must be attached. In
the case of encashment of foreign currency instruments of foreign missions in Pakistan, the
name of the mission concerned, should invariably be mentioned in Form "R"/"IRV" (Appendix
V-118/Appendix V- 119). Authorised Dealers must carefully note that Schedule 'J' is to cover
all receipts OTHER THAN EXPORTS. Export receipts are to be reported on Schedules 'A-1' and
'A-2' and not on Schedule 'J'. "R" Form is to be used for amounts over Rs.10,000/- or
equivalent, for purposes other than Family Maintenance Remittances and Exports. For
amounts of Rs.10,000/- and less received for purposes other than 'Family Maintenance
Remittances' and all amounts received as 'Family Maintenance Remittances', Authorised
Dealer will prepare one IRV for same currency, country and purpose for one reporting period
i.e. for the whole month. The item will be listed individually and the total thereof will be
entered on relevant schedule 'J' of same currency. In case the number of entries are large
and more pages for IRV are required, continuation sheets may be used. All inward
remittances sent by individuals from abroad in favour of individuals in Pakistan may be
treated as “Un-requited Transfers-Family Maintenance” unless voluntarily disclosed by the
beneficiary to be for some other purpose.
The Schedule "K" is not related to the Summary Statements "S-1", "S-4", "S-5" or
"S-6" (See paragraph 13 ibid).
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
The closing balance of the non-resident bank Rupee accounts must be listed on
Schedule "N". They should be grouped according to countries or currency groups. The final
total must agree with the amount entered for closing balance on the "S-4" statement.
Credits to non-resident bank Rupee accounts covering transfers from other non-
resident bank Rupee accounts must be listed on Schedule "R" and the total amounts of
Rupees must agree with the total on "S-4" Statement. The schedule should be submitted to
the State Bank in duplicate with the relative summary statement.
This schedule is to be used in respect of imports under loans/aid, credits & grants
where no remittances are involved. Branches of Authorised Dealers through whom
transactions are processed, would submit Schedule "LAC-NR" to the respective area office of
the Exchange Policy Department alongwith the monthly Exchange returns. In addition to the
Schedule "LAC-NR" a summary statement styled "Summary Statement—LAC-NR" (Appendix
V-128) which will be an abstract of the amount allocated, opening balance, payments i.e.
utilisation and closing balance at the end of each month shall be submitted by Head/Principal
Offices duly supported by Schedule "LAC-NR" wherein they will incorporate transactions of
their branches as also their own. There may be instances where payments for invisible items
such as bank charges, service charges etc., out of the loans/aid, credits and grants may also
be involved. Such transactions shall also be incorporated in Schedule "LAC-NR". Invisible
items should, however, be listed at the end of the schedule.
(i) Form 'I' in respect of imports under reimbursable loans and credits under which payments are
first made out of Pakistan's cash resources and subsequently reimbursed by Loan/Aid giving
agency shall be listed on Schedule "EL2".
(ii) In cases of suppliers credit under which remittance of down payment is involved, Schedule
"EL3" will be used.
As the transactions in cover of the items (i) and (ii) above effect the currency
accounts, the same will be reported in the relative "S-1" statements but shall be listed
separately on Schedule "EL-2" or "EL3", as the case may be. Care should be taken to ensure
that items listed on Schedule "EL-2" or "EL3" are not listed on Schedule "E-2".
Separate schedule should be used for each loan or credit. The name of the loan
should be clearly described on the schedule in the space provided therefor.
The opening and closing balances are to be taken from the currency accounts in the
books of the Authorised Dealer. The abbreviations "Cr." or "Dr." on the summarized
statements are intended to signify:
"Cr." Credit balances with agents or correspondents abroad as shown by debit balances in
own books.
"Dr." Debit balances with agents or correspondents abroad as shown by credit balances in
own books.
Balances of customer's foreign currency accounts should be excluded from the Authorised
Dealer's balance.
No schedules are needed for the following items on the various statements viz.
Sales
Purchase Side Side
(Item No.) (Item
No.)
"S-1" NIL 4
"S-4" NIL 5
"S-5" NIL 5
"S-6" 3 3
All that is necessary is to insert one total covering the relative period.
Authorised Dealers must not include their holdings of foreign currency notes in the
balances reported on the "S-1" statement and they are to omit their transactions in currency
notes completely except where such transactions result directly in entries in their currency
accounts. Examples of these are when an Authorised Dealer imports bank or currency notes
from abroad paying for them by drawing on the currency account and alternatively when an
Authorised Dealer sends a bunch of currency notes abroad to be credited to its account. In
the first instance the transaction should be treated as the sale of currency and reported on
Form 'M', which will be included in Schedule "E-3". In the second case, the Authorised Dealer
will report the purchase of the currency on Form "R"/"IRV"-Schedule " J" attached with
Statement "S-I". As a consequence of this, if a traveller obtains US$900/- in travellers
cheques and US$100/- in currency notes as his travel quota, the transaction must be
included in Statement "S-l" as the sale of US$900/- & the transaction of US$100/- in notes
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
Authorised Dealers must report to the State Bank purchases and sales of foreign
currency notes on the prescribed Statement "S-6" which should be sent in duplicate duly
supported with relative schedules/forms.
12. Method of De spatch of Statements “S-1”, “S-4” , “S-5” and “S-6” to the
State Bank.
When the statements are being dispatched to the State Bank, they should be put in
separate envelopes or packages i.e. the "S-1", "S-4" and "S-6" statements each separately.
On the outside of the envelopes or covers preferably on the back on the top left corner, the
name of the Authorised Dealer, the last date of the respective period, the type of statement
enclosed and the currency should be shown. Example: XYZ Bank, Period ended 31-10-2001
"S-1", U.S. $. As regards "S-5" statement, the Authorised Dealers should report transactions
under Rupee barter agreements on relevant "S-5" statements separately for each agreement.
Thus, if there are four barter commodity exchange agreements with (say) Poland, "S-5"
statements should be submitted separately for each one of them. Each such statement
should be sent to the area office of the Exchange Policy Department in duplicate and clearly
marked on the top right hand corner to the following effect:
WITH......................................
DATED .................
The statements "S-1", "S-4", "S-5" and "S-6" should be made as on the last day of
each month. They should reach the State Bank at the latest by the 3rd of the following
month to which they relate from the branches and by the 10th from the Head Offices of
Authorised Dealers. However, as the various statements are to be sent in separate covers,
those statements which are completed earlier may be sent immediately without waiting for
others which may still be under preparation.
following categories:
Banks have different methods of entering bills purchased. Some banks enter these
immediately into their currency account, in which case this item will not be required. On the
other hand some banks debit their bills purchased to a temporary suspense account and
transfer to their currency account at the estimated time when the bill is payable. In the
Exchange position, the total in the suspense account must be entered under this heading.
(ii) BILLS NEGOTIATED ABROAD CHARGED TO ACCOUNT AND RESPONDED TO BUT NO SALES
SHOWN IN EXCHANGE POSITION.
This is intended to cover bills which have been received after negotiation abroad,
entered into the currency account but not taken up by the customers, when the person who
has had the relative credit opened covers the requirements by a forward purchase of
currency. The amount of such bills should be shown under the heading in order to off-set the
effect of outstanding forward sales included on the sales side on the final position.
(iii) PROCEEDS OF BILLS: SALES BOOKED BUT NOT CREDITED IN LOCAL BOOKS.
This item is intended for those banks who have to remit currency to their agents and
who have booked the sale but have not entered the amount in their currency accounts. For
example suppose that a bank in Karachi has to remit the proceeds of a Sterling bill to its
London correspondent; if the sale has been booked but owing to one reason or the other it
has not been able to pass entries in its books or issue the advice, then the amount must be
shown here. Again some banks if they issue drafts do not credit their currency accounts until
such estimated time as their correspondents will receive the advice of issue, the amount is
held in a suspense account in the interval. Such amounts must be shown under this heading.
Foreign Exchange Manual 8th Edition State Bank of Pakistan
(iv) FOREIGN CURRENCY BILLS, MAIL TRANSFERS AND TELEGRAPHIC TRANSFERS PAYABLE.
Banks receive from their correspondents advices of drafts in foreign currency issued on
them or Mail and Telegraphic Transfers to pay foreign currency or its equivalent. This in fact
will ultimately be a purchase of the currency from the beneficiary of the transaction. If the
Authorised Dealer does not enter into its currency position the amount of draft or transfer
until it is actually paid, this heading will not be required. If, however, it enters the amount in
its currency account immediately on the receipt of the advice with a contra entry to a
suspense account, the amount outstanding in the suspense account must be entered here.
Authorised Dealers are required to submit to the State Bank fortnightly statements
of outstanding commitments against cash resources in the prescribed forms (Appendices V-
131, V-132, V-133, V-134) as on 15th and last day of each month reaching the Joint Director
(General), Exchange Policy Department, State Bank of Pakistan, Central Directorate, Karachi
by the 22nd and 7th showing breakdown of figures with month-wise maturity thereof
classified allocation-wise as under:
Authorised Dealers are required to furnish a yearly return in the prescribed form
(Appendix V- 135) to the State Bank at the end of each year ending 31st December, showing
the balance held by them in blocked accounts. This return should show the country of
residence of each account holder separately. Similarly, a yearly return in the prescribed form
(Appendix V-136) showing the securities held by them on blocked accounts should also be
furnished. These returns should include the balance and securities held in non-resident
accounts blocked by orders of the State Bank. Where there are no accounts or securities to
report, "NIL" return should be sent. The returns should be made as on the 31st December,
each year and should reach the State Bank not later than 7th January.