BlueZone / Student Essentials / Money transfer
Money transfer: send tuition and living costs legally from Pakistan
Use an authorised dealer bank, keep every receipt and pay the university directly. This is also what visa officers expect to see.
Last reviewed 30 September 2026. Figures are checked against the sources listed at the bottom of the page.
Talk to a counsellorWhat the rules say
- Authorised dealer banks can remit foreign exchange for education abroad for tuition, hostel and living costs, on the student’s documents. The State Bank circular we reviewed (FE Circular 08 of 2015) sets a limit of US$70,000 per student per calendar year for such remittances. Confirm the current limit with your bank.
- Banks ask for the admission or offer letter, the fee invoice and the student’s identity documents.
- Informal money transfer channels such as hundi or hawala are illegal under Pakistani foreign exchange law and leave no paper record. Visa officers may refuse funds you cannot trace.
Pay the university step by step
- Get the invoiceAsk the university for the fee invoice with its bank details and a payment reference.
- Verify the accountPhone admissions using the number on the university’s own website and confirm the account.
- Ask your bank for a quoteGet the exchange rate, charges and the amount debited in rupees.
- Submit the documentsOffer letter, invoice, CNIC and passport copy, and any form your bank needs.
- Send and keep proofSave the SWIFT confirmation or transfer advice and send the receipt to the university.
- Confirm receiptAsk the university to confirm it has applied the payment to your account.
Check the real rupee cost
How many rupees will this transfer cost?
Enter the amount in foreign currency, your bank quote and its charges. This shows the real PKR cost, which is what goes on your bank statement and visa file.
Enter the rate your bank quotes to see the rupee cost.
Safer ways to pay and common scams
- Pay only to the account on the university’s official invoice, or to an official payment partner that the university’s own website lists.
- Do not pay an agent’s personal account for tuition.
- Beware emails that change bank details at the last minute. Always phone to confirm.
- Do not buy “instant” foreign currency from unlicensed dealers. Use your bank or an authorised exchange company.
- Keep every receipt for at least the duration of your degree.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I send abroad for my education?
Under the State Bank circular we reviewed, an authorised dealer may remit up to US$70,000 per student per calendar year for education purposes. Ask your bank for the current limit and procedure.
Can I send money through hundi or an exchange shop?
No. Use an authorised dealer bank. Informal channels are illegal and leave no record for your visa file.
How long does a transfer take?
Usually a few working days, depending on banks and checks. Send tuition well before the deadline.
What documents does my bank need?
The offer letter, the fee invoice, your CNIC, passport and often a form. Ask your bank for its checklist.
Will paying earlier help my visa?
A tuition deposit receipt is often needed for the visa document. Follow the university’s instructions on timing.
Sources and how we verify
Checked on 30 September 2026. This page is general information, not legal, immigration, medical or financial advice. Rules, fees and deadlines change, so confirm with the official body before you pay or apply.
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