The State Bank of Pakistan has introduced major procedural changes to simplify how legal heirs living abroad can claim and transfer inheritance from the estates of deceased persons.

Under the revised framework, overseas heirs will no longer be required to submit bank account statements when applying to transfer inherited funds abroad. Instead, applicants will only need to provide details of the deceased person’s assets in Pakistan, marking a significant reduction in documentation requirements.

The central bank has also expanded the list of acceptable succession documents. In addition to probate and letters of administration, a Succession Certificate can now be used to support inheritance claims, further easing legal hurdles for families abroad.

To streamline the process further, the requirement for submitting multiple attestations on wills has been relaxed. Documents will no longer need authentication from several authorities such as notaries, judges, or magistrates, reducing procedural delays.

SBP has also incorporated succession documentation issued by the National Database and Registration Authority, broadening the official recognition of inheritance-related records.

Under the updated rules, any inherited funds that cannot immediately be remitted abroad may be placed in a blocked account in Pakistan under the name of the executor or administrator. For assets such as securities, shares, or real estate specifically bequeathed to overseas heirs, full details must still be provided for processing.

The changes are aimed at reducing bureaucratic friction, improving efficiency, and making it easier for overseas Pakistanis to access inherited assets while maintaining regulatory oversight.