ISLAMABAD: Buying property in Pakistan from abroad has become more convenient for eligible overseas Pakistanis through the Roshan Digital Account (RDA) and its property-focused Roshan Apna Ghar facility.
The initiative provides overseas Pakistanis with a regulated digital banking channel to purchase, construct or renovate property in Pakistan using their own funds or, subject to eligibility and bank requirements, through financing options.
How Roshan Apna Ghar Works
Roshan Apna Ghar is designed to facilitate property transactions for overseas Pakistanis without requiring them to manage every banking process through a physical branch in Pakistan.
Eligible customers can use their Roshan Digital Account to explore property-related options and submit information and documents digitally. Depending on the transaction and bank’s procedures, certain property and transfer formalities may also be handled through an authorised representative in Pakistan.
Buying Property With Personal Funds
Overseas buyers who already have sufficient funds can purchase eligible property using their own money through the RDA framework.
The bank may require property documents and conduct the necessary verification and valuation before processing the payment. Buyers should ensure that ownership records, seller information and property details are properly checked before completing the transaction.
Property Financing Options
Eligible overseas Pakistanis may also seek financing through participating banks. Financing terms, eligibility criteria, repayment periods and pricing can vary between banks and financing products.
Both conventional and Shariah-compliant financing options may be available, subject to the requirements of the relevant financial institution.
Before selecting a financing option, buyers should compare the total financing cost, repayment obligations, processing requirements and applicable conditions rather than focusing only on the advertised financing rate.
Key Steps for Overseas Property Buyers
A typical digital property-buying process may involve:
- Accessing the Roshan Digital Account through the participating bank
- Selecting the relevant Roshan Apna Ghar facility
- Choosing between personal funds and eligible financing
- Providing property and buyer information
- Uploading the required documents
- Completing the bank’s verification and approval process
- Finalising the purchase and transfer formalities
The exact procedure and documentation can differ depending on the bank, property and transaction structure.
Property Verification Remains Essential
A digital payment channel does not eliminate the need for property due diligence. Overseas buyers should independently verify ownership, title documents, development approvals, outstanding dues and any legal disputes associated with the property.
Buyers should also confirm that the person receiving payment is legally authorised and that the property information provided by the seller matches official records.
For transactions involving a representative in Pakistan, buyers should understand the relevant authority and documentation requirements, including whether a Special Power of Attorney is necessary.
Taxes and Repatriation
Property transactions can involve applicable taxes, duties, transfer charges and other costs. These obligations may depend on factors such as the nature of the transaction, property location and the buyer’s circumstances.
Overseas investors should also understand the applicable rules concerning the repatriation of eligible funds or investment proceeds. The latest requirements should be confirmed with the participating bank and a qualified tax or legal professional before completing a transaction.
What Overseas Buyers Should Check Before Investing
Before purchasing property through an RDA-related facility, overseas Pakistanis should assess more than the convenience of digital payments. Location, property value, legal status, developer record, possession position, infrastructure and future demand should all be considered.
Buyers should also obtain the latest terms directly from their participating bank because eligibility criteria, financing conditions and documentation requirements can change.
The Roshan Digital Account framework can simplify several aspects of managing property investments from abroad, but proper verification and financial planning remain essential for making a secure and informed real estate decision in Pakistan.
