A proposal to launch a second version of the Roshan Digital Account, dubbed RDA 2.0, is under review to streamline export remittances and enhance financial support for Pakistan’s IT companies and freelancers. The initiative was discussed during a recent high-level meeting chaired by Shaza Fatima, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, and attended by key figures including the Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue, Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, and CEOs of Ignite, PSEB, and PAFLA. The meeting also reviewed the potential of improved data collection related to IT companies, freelance professionals, and the annual number of tech graduates in the country.
The RDA 2.0 framework is designed to convert unofficial digital exports into formal channels, providing easier access to international income while offering a structured and transparent mechanism for financial transactions. The upgraded version of the account will be tailored specifically to the needs of IT exporters and freelance professionals, integrating features such as automated verification, streamlined onboarding through a representative body, and access to key banking functionalities.
Account holders under RDA 2.0 will be entitled to benefits such as dollar-based interest earnings, retention of foreign exchange in their accounts, and the ability to remit or encash funds with greater ease. In addition to these features, holders will also have access to debit and credit cards and enjoy all standard services currently available under the original RDA scheme.
The original Roshan Digital Account, launched in September 2020, was designed to connect overseas Pakistanis with the domestic banking and investment landscape. Offered through 15 banks in both conventional and Islamic formats, the RDA has attracted more than 831,000 account holders and received over $10.3 billion in deposits by June 2025. The success of the initial scheme has prompted policymakers to explore sector-specific adaptations, especially as Pakistan seeks to capitalize on its growing pool of digital professionals and remote service providers.
By introducing RDA 2.0, the government aims to support foreign currency inflows from the tech sector and integrate freelancers and small IT exporters into the formal financial system. This would not only boost transparency but also help policymakers understand the economic contribution of the digital workforce more accurately. The availability of verified data from RDA 2.0 accounts would be instrumental in planning support mechanisms and policy incentives for the IT industry going forward.
The proposal reflects ongoing efforts by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication to improve digital infrastructure and financial accessibility for the country’s expanding base of knowledge economy workers. With backing from key government institutions and industry stakeholders, the initiative is being positioned as a step toward greater inclusion of Pakistan’s digital service providers in national financial and economic planning.
