Pakistan sees rapid growth in Kiosk Branchless Banking
Kiosk branchless banking
has emerged as one of Pakistan’s fastest-growing financial service models in
2025, transforming how banking reaches remote and underserved communities.
Using biometric verification, agent-operated kiosks, and real-time payment
systems like RAAST, this model supports the country’s broader financial
inclusion goals.
What Is Kiosk Branchless Banking?
Kiosk branchless banking allows users to perform essential banking
transactions through digital self-service kiosks or agent-managed
Customer Service Points (CSPs). These are often located in local markets,
shops, or public areas—bringing banking services to the doorstep of rural and
semi-urban populations.
Key Services Offered
·
Account Opening:
Instant savings account setup using NADRA-based biometric verification
·
Deposits &
Withdrawals: Secure cash transactions via fingerprint authentication
·
Fund Transfers:
Real-time transfers through RAAST and 1LINK
networks
·
Bill Payments &
Mobile Top-Ups: Utility bills and mobile recharge for all networks
·
Loan Disbursement
& Repayments: Access to microloans and installment payments
·
Insurance
Enrollment: Registration for micro-insurance and welfare programs
·
Balance
Inquiries & Mini Statements
Read More State
Bank of Pakistan (SBP) mandates biometric verification for all branchless
banking transactions
Technology Infrastructure
These kiosks are equipped with:
·
Biometric scanners
integrated with NADRA
·
POS systems &
touchscreens for guided transactions
·
Cash acceptors/dispensers and thermal printers
·
Real-time banking software connected
to central bank systems
Agents are trained and certified to ensure customer trust and security.
Regulatory Framework (2025)
Under the State Bank of Pakistan’s
updated Branchless Banking Regulations, key requirements
include:
·
Mandatory biometric verification for
all transactions
·
Rigorous agent onboarding and training protocols
·
Daily transaction limits between PKR
10,000–50,000
·
Full integration with RAAST for
instant payments
·
End-to-end cybersecurity and data
protection mechanisms
Read More Pakistan
seeing growing trend of digital payments
Customer & Institutional Benefits
For Customers:
·
Access to banking in remote
areas
·
No minimum balance or
hidden fees
·
Secure, fast, and
fraud-proof transactions
·
Extended operating hours
compared to traditional banks
For Banks & Agents:
·
Lower operational costs
·
Wider customer outreach
·
Commission-based revenue
streams
·
Contribution to national digital and financial inclusion
goals
Challenges & Solutions
Challenge |
Resolution |
Limited internet access |
Offline sync and mobile connectivity |
Low digital awareness |
Community training and outreach |
Agent knowledge gaps |
Mandatory training via banks/SBP |
Transaction restrictions |
Customized account types for flexibility |
|
|
Role of RAAST & Fintech
RAAST, Pakistan’s real-time payment gateway, powers instant, cost-effective
transfers across kiosk networks. Fintech platforms like Easypaisa and JazzCash further enhance
accessibility with mobile wallets, microloans, and bill payment features
available at kiosk points.
Quick Summary
Feature |
Details |
Service Model |
Digital kiosks & agent-managed CSPs |
Technology |
Biometrics, POS, real-time banking, RAAST |
Services Offered |
Deposits, transfers, loans, bills, insurance |
Regulator |
State Bank of Pakistan |
Daily Limits |
Up to PKR 50,000 (institution-dependent) |
Key Beneficiaries |
Rural, unbanked, and low-income communities |
|
|
Conclusion
Kiosk branchless banking in 2025 is redefining financial access in
Pakistan—bridging the gap between technology and inclusion. Backed by the SBP,
empowered by RAAST, and supported by fintech innovation, this model is a
cornerstone of the country’s digital financial ecosystem.
As the network grows, it promises to bring secure, convenient, and inclusive
banking to millions more across Pakistan.
Source: bloompakistan.com