How can I pay with my mobile phone in Pakistan?

Mobile Payments (Mobile Payments) are growing rapidly in Pakistan and here is a guide to the main ways to use them and the platforms:

1. Mainstream mobile phone payment methods

(1) JazzCash

  • operator (of a power station, transport network etc): Jazz (one of the largest telecommunications companies in Pakistan)
  • functionality: money transfers, bill payments, phone bill recharges, online shopping and more.
  • Opening method::
    • downloading JazzCash App or call 786# USSD code registration.
    • CNIC (Pakistani Identity Card) and bank account/debit card are required to be bound.

(2) EasyPaisa

  • operator (of a power station, transport network etc): Telenor Pakistan
  • functionality: Similar to JazzCash, it supports money transfers, bill payments, scanner payments, and more.
  • Opening method: through EasyPaisa App or agent outlets (e.g. convenience stores) to register.

(3) SimSim (Alipay Co-operation)

  • specificities: In co-operation with Alipay, some merchants support code scanning payment. Suitable for CMB cross-border transactions or Chinese users.

2. Other e-purse options

  • UBL Omni / HBL Konnect:: Bank-based e-wallets, which need to be linked to a bank card.

3. Bank apps and code-sweeping payments

Major banks in Pakistan also offer mobile payment services for those who already have a local bank card:

(1) Bank APP transfer/payment

  • HBL Mobile App, andUBL Digital, andMCB Liteand other support:
    • Inter-account transfers (IBFT instant).
    • Utilities and phone bill top-ups.
    • Scanning code payment (QR Pay): Some merchants support bank APP scanning QR code payment (e.g. Alipay style).

(2) Visa/Mastercard Bundled Mobile Wallet

  • JazzCash/EasyPaisa can be tied to international credit cards (some restrictions apply) for online shopping or POS purchases.

4. Cross-border payment and China user adaptation solutions

(1) Alipay (Paypal)

  • Applicable Scenarios:: Alipay is accepted by some Chinese shops, travel agencies or e-commerce platforms, but its popularity is limited. You need to check if the merchant supports it.

(2) Wise (formerly TransferWise)/PayPal withdrawals to local wallet*

  • PayPal is not able to receive money directly in Pakistan, but cash can be withdrawn indirectly by associating with JazzCash/EasyPaisa (higher fees).

5. USSD shortcut (available without smartphone)

Use basic services by dialling a short code:

  • JazzCash: 786# → Select Remittance/Payment
  • EasyPaisa: 3737# → Enter the amount and counterparty number

6. Cautions

  1. Real-name authentication is required:: All e-wallets require a Pakistani identity card (CNIC) or passport for registration. Foreigners may require additional documentation.
  2. Differences in handling fees: JazzCash/EasyPaisa transfers are usually free for small amounts, with fees of 0.5%-1% for large transactions; cross-border remittance rates are higher.
    3.Network coverage issues. USSD is more reliable in remote areas where smart apps rely on 4G signals.

If guidance is needed for a specific scenario (e.g. short-term use by Chinese tourists or daily payments by locals), the instructions can be further refined!