New Currency Notes Pakistan Redesign 2026 – Approved Denominations & Release Timeline. Pakistan is officially moving towards new currency notes redesign in 2026.
The government has approved key denominations and confirmed when the notes may enter circulation.
This guide explains everything in simple words.
Federal Cabinet Approves New Currency Notes
In January 2026, the Federal Cabinet of Pakistan, led by Shehbaz Sharif, approved the printing of redesigned currency notes.
This decision marks the largest currency update in decades.
A special committee has been formed to finalize designs, colors, and security elements.
The goal is simple.
Make notes safer.
Make them modern.
Make them harder to fake.
Which Currency Notes Are Being Redesigned in 2026?
The redesign focuses on high-usage denominations.
These notes are used daily across Pakistan.
Approved Denominations
| Currency Note | Status |
|---|---|
| Rs. 100 | Approved |
| Rs. 500 | Approved |
| Rs. 1,000 | Approved |
| Rs. 5,000 | Approved |
The Rs. 5,000 note is NOT being discontinued.
This clears many online rumors.
Lower notes like Rs. 10, 20, and 50 were part of an earlier design competition. But they are not included in this approval phase.
Why Pakistan Is Redesigning Its Currency Notes
The main reason is security.
Fake notes hurt the economy.
They reduce trust.
They cause losses for businesses.
The State Bank of Pakistan wants notes that match international standards.
Key Objectives
- Stop counterfeit currency
- Improve note durability
- Add modern identification features
- Reflect Pakistan’s new national image
New Security Features in Pakistani Currency Notes
The redesigned notes will include advanced anti-counterfeiting tools.
Expected Security Enhancements
- Embedded security threads
- Multi-layer watermarks
- UV-reactive inks
- Micro-text printing
- Color-shifting elements
These features help shopkeepers, banks, and citizens verify notes easily.
Think of it like a smart lock on a house.
More layers mean more safety.
Polymer Currency Notes – Are Plastic Notes Coming?
Yes.
Polymer notes are under serious discussion.
Polymer means plastic-based notes, not paper.
Benefits of Polymer Notes
- Last longer than paper
- Resistant to water and dirt
- Harder to tear
- Very difficult to copy
Countries like Australia and the UK already use them.
⚠️ Final approval is still pending.
Pakistan may use paper, polymer, or a mix.
New Currency Themes Reflecting Modern Pakistan
The redesign is not only about security.
It is also about storytelling.
Proposed Design Themes
- Pakistan’s mountains, rivers, and deserts
- Cultural heritage and landmarks
- Women’s contribution to society
- Climate change awareness
- Future-focused national identity
These designs aim to show a confident and modern Pakistan.
Official Release Timeline for New Currency Notes 2026
Here is the expected rollout schedule.
| Stage | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Final design approval | Q1 2026 |
| Start of printing | Mid 2026 |
| Public circulation | Late 2026 |
Banks and ATMs will receive notes step by step.
There will be no sudden change.
What Will Happen to Old Currency Notes?
This is a common question.
The answer is simple.
Old notes will remain valid.
Both old and new notes will circulate together for years.
This gradual change helps:
- Banks adjust systems
- Businesses train staff
- Public avoid confusion
No rush.
No panic.
What This Means for the Public
For now, you do nothing.
- Keep using existing notes
- No exchange needed yet
- ATMs will update slowly
When new notes arrive, you will see them naturally in daily use.
FAQs About New Currency Notes Pakistan 2026
When will new currency notes be released in Pakistan?
The new notes are expected to enter circulation in late 2026.
Will old Pakistani currency notes become invalid?
No. Old notes will remain valid during a gradual transition period.
Is Rs. 5,000 note being discontinued?
No. The Rs. 5,000 note will continue.
Are polymer notes confirmed in Pakistan?
Polymer notes are under review, but not finalized yet.
Who approved the new currency redesign?
The redesign was approved by Pakistan’s federal cabinet.
Conclusion
The new currency notes Pakistan redesign 2026 is a major step forward. It improves security. It modernizes design. It protects the economy.
