Banks Raise ATM Fees to Rs35 in July 2025

Karachi, July 03, 2025, 08:04 PM PKT — Banks across Pakistan have slashed convenience by hiking ATM withdrawal fees for non-host ATMs from Rs23.44 to Rs35 per transaction, effective July 2025, as per revised fee schedules now rolling out, impacting millions of customers reliant on cross-bank ATMs in underserved areas with limited network access. 1Link, the interbank network, will claim the lion’s share of the Rs35 fee, with ATM-owning banks retaining a smaller cut for operational and maintenance costs.

Banking representatives cite rising interbank transaction costs and escalating equipment expenses, but the timing—amid soaring inflation, skyrocketing utility bills, and economic strain—has ignited criticism. This hike hits rural residents, low-income earners, and daily wage workers hardest, who frequently withdraw small sums, now facing a steeper cost to access their own funds. The move reignites debates on financial inclusion, exposing barriers to basic banking in a challenging economic climate.

Web context reveals Pakistan’s ATM access gaps (e.g., 70% rural unbanked, web ID: 0), while posts found on X reflect anger—some decry exploitation, others question inclusion claims. Critically, the narrative of “cost recovery” may mask profit motives—web data points to bank profitability, and X sentiment suggests distrust in fair pricing, hinting at growing discontent.