Pakistan is set to launch a new currency series in 2026 with redesigned notes, advanced security features, and a polymer trial. Get official updates, launch timeline, and Rs. 5,000 note details here.
As of mid-February 2026, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has entered the final stages of the country’s largest currency overhaul in decades. The new banknote series designs are finalized, awaiting Federal Cabinet approval before mass printing begins.
The biggest relief for citizens is that the Rs. 5,000 note will remain in circulation, only being redesigned with state-of-the-art international security features.
New Currency Notes Status 2026
Here is the current status of the upcoming currency series:
| Denomination | 2026 Status | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Rs. 100, 500, 1000 | Designs Finalized | High – First rollout phase |
| Rs. 5,000 | Confirmed to Stay | Redesigned for maximum security |
| Rs. 10, 20, 50 | Included in Series | To be updated alongside high-value notes |
| Polymer (Plastic) | Trial Phase | Likely one denomination test launch |
What’s New in the 2026 Design?
The SBP held a nationwide art competition in 2024, with winning designs refined by international experts. Key highlights of the new notes include:
- Themes: Climate change awareness, women’s contributions to national development, and Pakistan’s geographical diversity.
- Portrait: Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah remains the face of all notes.
- Security Features:
- Color-shifting (OVI) ink
- Advanced security threads with tilting effects
- Iris-recognizable features for machine reading
Polymer (Plastic) Currency Notes
For the first time, Pakistan is introducing polymer banknotes.
- Test Launch: Likely one lower-value note such as Rs. 10 or Rs. 100 in late 2026.
- Benefits: Waterproof, tear-resistant, and extremely difficult to counterfeit compared to cotton-based paper notes.
Official Launch Timeline
The SBP follows a Minimum Stock Policy to prevent cash shortages:
- Federal Approval: Expected by Q1 2026 (February or March)
- Printing Phase: Mid-2026
- Public Circulation: Late 2026, possibly year-end or next fiscal cycle
Common Misconceptions About New Notes
- “Old notes are expiring” – FALSE: All current notes remain legal tender. Phase-out will be gradual over 5 years.
- “Rs. 5,000 is banned” – FALSE: SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad confirmed no demonetization plans.
- “Leaked designs on social media” – FALSE: Only official SBP releases are authentic; ignore TikTok/Facebook leaks.
What You Should Do Now
- Keep Your Cash: No need to rush to banks for exchanging notes.
- Verify via Rahbar: Stay updated using NADRA/SBP apps.
- Check “Protected” Status: Large cash holders should update FBR/tax records as new notes may trigger stricter monitoring.
FAQs
Q1: Will the Rs. 5,000 note be discontinued?
A: No, it will stay in circulation with a new design featuring advanced security.
Q2: When will the new notes officially launch?
A: Printing is expected by mid-2026, with public circulation targeted for late 2026.
Q3: Are polymer notes being used for all denominations?
A: Initially, only one lower-value note will be tested in polymer format.
Q4: Are old currency notes still valid?
A: Yes, all existing notes remain legal tender.
Conclusion
The 2026 currency overhaul is Pakistan’s biggest in decades, bringing advanced security, redesigned themes, and polymer note trials. Citizens can stay relaxed, as no demonetization is planned and the rollout will be gradual. Stay updated via official SBP channels to ensure authenticity.