The Parwaaz Card Scheme 2026 is a flagship initiative by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, designed to empower the youth of Punjab by removing financial barriers to employment and entrepreneurship. Whether you are looking to work abroad or start a business in Pakistan, this card serves as your gateway to interest-free financial support.
1. Core Categories of the Parwaaz Card
The scheme is structured into two main tracks to cater to different career paths: Overseas Employment Track: This is for individuals who have already secured a job offer abroad but lack the funds for pre-departure expenses. It covers costs like air tickets, visa fees, medical tests, and protectorate charges. Entrepreneurship & Startup Track: This is aimed at freelancers, small business owners, and skilled professionals within Punjab who need interest-free capital to start or grow their local ventures.
2. Financial Assistance and Repayment Terms
The Parwaaz Card offers Qarz-e-Hasna (0% interest loans), ensuring that beneficiaries are not burdened by high markups. Loan Limits: You can receive up to Rs. 1,000,000 (10 Lakh) for overseas expenses and up to Rs. 3,000,000 (30 Lakh) for business startups. Grace Period: A significant benefit is the 3 to 6-month grace period, meaning you don’t have to start paying back the loan until you are settled in your job or your business has started generating income. Repayment Tenure: The loan is repayable in easy monthly installments over a period of 2 to 5 years.
3. Eligibility Criteria for 2026
To ensure transparency, the government has set specific eligibility requirements for applicants: Residency: You must be a permanent resident of Punjab with a valid CNIC. Age Limit: Generally between 18 and 35 years for overseas seekers, though the business track may allow up to 55 years for certain tiers. Soft Skills Certificate: A new mandatory requirement for 2026. You must obtain this certificate online via the official portal before your application can be processed. Job Offer (Overseas Track): You must have a verified job offer letter from an international employer, with a monthly salary typically below SAR 5,000 (or equivalent). Business Requirements: For the startup track, having an active NTN (Tax Filer status) and a viable business plan is essential.
4. How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
The registration process is 100% digital and was officially opened on January 28, 2026. Step 1: Get Your Soft Skills Certificate: Visit the portal to complete the short mandatory training. The certificate is usually issued within 24 hours. Step 2: Access the Official Portal: Go to parwaaz.psdf.org.pk. Step 3: Register and Login: Create an account using your CNIC and a mobile number registered in your own name. Step 4: Fill the Application: Select your category (Job Holder or Business Applicant), enter your details, and upload the required documents (CNIC, Job Offer, or Business Plan). Step 5: Verification: Your application will be reviewed by the Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF) and the Bank of Punjab (BOP). You can track the status directly on your dashboard.
5. Important Safety Warning
The Punjab Government has made it clear that the registration process is completely free. There are no “agents” authorized to collect fees for faster approval. Always use the official PSDF portal and never share your login credentials with anyone. If you encounter suspicious activity, report it to the helpline at (042) 111-117-733.
Would you like me to guide you on how to find a verified Overseas Employment Promoter (OEP) or help you with the details of the mandatory Soft Skills training?
This video provides a practical walkthrough of the registration portal and explains how the Parwaaz Card eliminates the financial hurdles of moving abroad for work.