Pakistan Sets Sept. 5 Crypto Registration Deadline

Pakistan has officially opened its cryptocurrency regulatory framework, giving digital asset companies until Sept. 5 to register with the country’s new virtual asset regulator or stop operating.

The Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) said crypto businesses must submit applications for a no-objection certificate before the deadline. Companies that fail to complete the registration process will be required to cease operations in the country.

Under the new framework, licensed cryptocurrency firms will face operational, security and transparency requirements designed to protect customers and strengthen oversight of Pakistan’s growing digital asset market.

“Licensees must follow strict operational and security standards safeguarding customer funds, maintaining robust cybersecurity, providing clear disclosures, and ensuring transparent business practices,” PVARA said.

The licensing framework was established under Pakistan’s Virtual Assets Act 2026, which regulates 11 categories of crypto-related activities. These include digital asset custody, cryptocurrency exchanges, broker-dealer services and derivatives.

The Sept. 5 registration deadline represents another major step in Pakistan’s effort to establish formal cryptocurrency regulation. The country has gradually moved toward clearer oversight of the digital asset sector after years of restrictions involving crypto-related financial services.

In April, the State Bank of Pakistan lifted a seven-year restriction that prevented financial institutions from providing banking services to virtual asset companies. The decision allows banks to serve compliant crypto firms, strengthening connections between Pakistan’s traditional financial system and its emerging digital asset industry.

However, banks remain prohibited from directly investing in, trading or holding cryptocurrencies themselves. They can provide banking services to authorized virtual asset providers but cannot take direct positions in crypto assets.

With the registration deadline approaching, digital asset firms operating in Pakistan must secure PVARA approval to continue their activities. The new rules highlight Pakistan’s shift toward regulating cryptocurrency through licensing, cybersecurity requirements, customer protection and greater transparency.