New Pakistani Currency Notes Coming in 2025 — Here’s What You Should Know
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced that a brand-new series of currency notes will begin circulating in the second half of 2025. While the news has sparked excitement, it has also led to many rumors and misleading posts on social media. To help you separate fact from fiction, here’s a clear, easy-to-understand breakdown of what’s really happening with Pakistan’s new currency.
SBP’s Official Plan
In January 2024, the State Bank started working on new designs for all existing denominations of the Pakistani rupee. To make the process more creative and representative of national pride, SBP even held a nationwide art competition, inviting artists and citizens to share their ideas for themes, symbols, and imagery. These suggestions are now being reviewed by professional designers who will create the final versions of the new notes.
In January 2025, SBP Governor Jameel Ahmad confirmed that the new notes would be released gradually, not all at once. This means the old notes will remain in use for a long time while the new ones are introduced step by step. He also emphasized that the final release will only take place after government approval and after ensuring that all printing, security, and technical details are completed.
Rumors vs. Reality
With the announcement, several social media pages began sharing photos of “new” currency notes and claiming false timelines. Here’s the truth behind the most common viral claims:
| Viral Claim | Fact |
|---|---|
| New notes will launch by July 2025 and old notes will expire immediately. | False. SBP has confirmed a slow, phased rollout. |
| All notes will be made of polymer. | Unconfirmed. SBP has not announced any complete shift to polymer material. |
| Designs showing famous people or landmarks are official. | Incorrect. Those images are early concepts, not final approved designs. |
| Notes with pen marks will be banned. | False. SBP has denied issuing any such rule. |
Even AFP Fact Check verified that, as of mid-2025, SBP had not released any official design for the new Rs. 1,000 note. Many of the pictures circulating online are either fan-made mockups or old competition entries from past years.
What to Expect from the New Notes
The upcoming series is expected to cover all major denominations — Rs. 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, and 5,000. The primary goal of this redesign is to strengthen currency security and make it harder for counterfeiters to produce fake notes.
New notes are likely to include:
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Advanced security features such as holograms, UV threads, and color-shifting inks.
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Microtext and raised printing for better authentication.
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Modern, fresh designs that celebrate Pakistan’s culture, heritage, and natural beauty.
Despite these updates, old notes will remain valid for transactions throughout the transition period. SBP has made it clear that there will be no sudden demonetization or cancellation of existing currency.
How to Stay Safe and Informed
As new designs approach release, scammers may try to take advantage of the public’s curiosity. To protect yourself:
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Only rely on updates from SBP’s official website (sbp.org.pk) or its verified social media pages.
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Avoid any person or platform claiming to “pre-sell” or “reserve” the new notes. These offers are fraudulent.
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Do not trust viral videos or photos unless officially confirmed by SBP.
The Bottom Line
Yes — Pakistan is set to introduce new currency notes in 2025, but the rollout will be gradual, transparent, and carefully managed. The goal is not just to refresh the look of the rupee, but to improve security and prevent counterfeiting in the long run.
Until the official launch, all your existing notes remain completely valid and safe to use. So, stay patient, follow trusted sources, and look forward to seeing a modern new design of Pakistan’s currency in the coming year.
