Habib Bank Limited (HBL) and the Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) have signed an agreement to expand banking services for freelancers across Pakistan. The partnership combines financial products with training to help freelancers manage overseas earnings and develop their businesses.
Under the memorandum of understanding, HBL will offer PAFLA members specialised banking products, foreign currency accounts, international payment solutions and digital banking services.
Faisal Malik, Head of HBL Konnect, signed the agreement alongside PAFLA President Dr Imran Batada, a Global CIO Award winner.
HBL President and CEO Muhammad Nassir Salim and Head of Retail Aalishaan Zaidi attended the ceremony. PAFLA representatives included Co-founder and Chairman Ibrahim Amin, Co-founder Fahad Sheikh, and Chief Growth and Strategy official Farheen Fatima. Senior officials from both organisations also attended.
Banking access and skills development
The partnership extends beyond account services. HBL and PAFLA plan financial literacy workshops, educational sessions and professional development programmes to help freelancers improve their skills.
Both organisations aim to support sustainable entrepreneurship, income growth and economic empowerment through these initiatives.
They will also organise joint events, community engagement activities, industry partnerships and awareness campaigns to strengthen Pakistan’s freelancing sector.
In its announcement, PAFLA highlighted the practical challenges freelancers face when serving overseas clients. These include receiving international payments, managing foreign earnings and building a financial profile that supports business growth.
HBL chief highlights AI challenge
Salim said the partnership would support freelancers as technology changes the skills employers and clients need.
“Freelancers are playing an increasingly important role in Pakistan’s digital economy, creating new opportunities and connecting local talent with global markets. At HBL, we are committed to supporting their growth through tailored financial solutions and greater digital inclusion. As AI reshapes the future of work, investing in freelancer upskilling is no longer optional but imperative. PAFLA can serve as a key enabler in helping freelancers build future-ready capabilities, navigate disruption, and unlock sustainable growth opportunities. Together, we aim to empower freelancers and strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy,” he said.
Amin said freelancers increasingly contribute to Pakistan’s digital economy by bringing in foreign exchange, creating jobs and reducing unemployment.
He stressed that banks should support skill development and financial literacy alongside their banking services.
The partnership announcement puts Pakistan’s freelance workforce at nearly three million and describes the country as the world’s fourth-largest freelancing market.
Existing banking services provide a foundation
HBL already offers a Freelancer Digital Account. Its published guidance allows customers to request a linked Exporter’s Special Foreign Currency Account at an eligible branch.
The State Bank of Pakistan introduced a dedicated framework for freelancers’ accounts in October 2023. It sought to facilitate account opening and banking access for residents receiving overseas payments for digital and online services.
The HBL-PAFLA announcement did not specify a rollout timetable, product fees or workshop registration arrangements.
