Money

NOTE: Currency regulations and exchange rates will vary depending on the nature and size of the transaction: the details given in this section generally apply only for small transactions by individuals, with the exchange rate an average of the buying and the selling prices. For more detailed information consult your bank.

Currency:

Pakistani Rupee (Re, singular; Rs, plural) = 100 paisa. Notes are in denominations of Rs1000, 500, 100, 50, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of Re1, and 50, 25, 10 and 5 paisa.

Credit cards:

American Express is the most widely accepted card. Access/Mastercard, Diners Club and Visa have more limited use. Check with your credit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.

Travelers cheques:

Generally accepted at most banks, 4- and 5-star hotels and major shops.

Exchange rate indicators

: The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Pakistani Rupee against Sterling and the US Dollar:  

Exchange Rate Indicater

Date:	Sep'93	Jan'94	Jan'95	Jzn'96	Jan'2000
£1.00=	45.62	44.52	48.14	53.13	87.60
$1.00=	29.88	30.09	30.77	34.22	54.22

Currency restrictions:

The import and export of local currency is limited to Rs100 in denominations of Rs10 or less. Unlimited import and export of foreign currency is allowed.

Banking hours:

0900-1300 and 1500-2000 Monday to Thursday, Half Day On Friday and Closed on Sunday.

 

Duty Free

The following items may be imported into Pakistan without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 500g tobacco; 250ml of perfume and eau de toilette (opened); still and/or movie camera with film.

Note: (a) The import of alcohol, matches, plants, fruit and vegetables is prohibited. However, if a visitor imports alcohol by mistake or with the intention of taking it out of Pakistan, it will be held by customs and returned on departure. (b) Precious stones and jewellery can be exported up to a value of Rs10,000 (Rs5000 for nationals of Afghanistan, the Gulf States, Iran and Nepal) and carpets to the value of Rs25,000, if accompanied by an export permit. All items are subject to proof of having been purchased in foreign currency. The export of antiques is prohibited.

Public Holidays

Jan 09 Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan). Mar 23 Pakistan Day. Apr 21 Anniversary of the Death of Allama Muhammad Iqbal. May 1 May Day; March21 Eidul-Azha (Feast of the Sacrifice). May 29 Ashura. Jul 1 Bank Holiday. Aug 1 Eid-i- Milad-un-Nabi (Prophet's Birthday). Aug 14 Independence Day. Sep 6 Defense of Pakistan Day. Sep 11 Anniversary of the Death of Quaid-i-Azam. Nov 9 Iqbal Day. Dec 25 Christmas Day; Quaid-i-Azam's Birthday. Dec 31 Bank Holiday. Jan Mar 23 Pakistan Day. Apr 21 Anniversary of the Death of Allama Muhammad Iqbal;

Note: (a) Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the Moon and the dates given above are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eidul-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Most restaurants are closed during the day and there is a restriction on smoking and drinking in public places. Eid al-Fitr and Eid ul-Azha may last anything from two to four days, depending on the region. (b)Christian holidays are taken by the Christian community only.

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