Crypto rules in Pakistan: current status
In March 2026 Pakistan's Parliament passed the Virtual Assets Act. It made the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) a permanent regulator that licenses crypto businesses. Rules are still being built, so check official sources before acting.
Timeline
| When | What happened |
|---|---|
| 2018 | The State Bank of Pakistan told banks and payment providers not to deal in virtual currencies. |
| March 2025 | The government formed the Pakistan Crypto Council to shape crypto policy. |
| July 2025 | PVARA was set up by presidential ordinance. |
| September 2025 | PVARA invited global crypto firms to apply for licences. |
| 6 March 2026 | Parliament passed the Virtual Assets Act 2026, replacing the ordinance and making PVARA a permanent statutory body. |
What the Virtual Assets Act does
- Gives PVARA power to issue, suspend and revoke licences for virtual asset service providers, including exchanges, custodians and token-issuance firms.
- Makes running an unlicensed crypto business a criminal offence, with fines of up to PKR 50 million and up to five years in prison, according to reporting on the Act.
- Sets separate penalties for unauthorised token offerings.
- Requires licensed firms to meet capital requirements and to have Sharia-compliance oversight, according to reporting on the Act.
What this means for individuals
The Act focuses on businesses that provide crypto services. Coverage of the Act has not set out detailed rules for individual holders, and older State Bank restrictions on banks may still affect how you can move rupees to and from crypto platforms. Before you trade:
- Check whether the platform you use is licensed or has clearance from PVARA.
- Check your bank's policy on payments linked to crypto.
- Keep records of every purchase and sale in rupees, in case tax rules require them.
- Be cautious of anyone offering guaranteed returns. Promises of fixed profit are a common sign of fraud.
Useful converters
For current market values, see BTC to PKR and USDT to PKR.
Frequently asked questions
Is crypto legal in Pakistan in 2026?
Pakistan now has a law, the Virtual Assets Act 2026, and a regulator, PVARA, that licenses crypto businesses. Running an unlicensed crypto business is an offence. Rules for individuals are still developing, so check PVARA's official website.
What is PVARA?
The Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority. It licenses and supervises crypto service providers in Pakistan.
Where can I read the official rules?
On the PVARA website, pvara.gov.pk, and in official government notifications.