Credit card declined in Pakistan

From my travels in Pakistan, card rejection is normal. ATMs often decline foreign cards, but Habib Bank and Standard Chartered had the best success. In Karachi, malls and upscale restaurants took cards, but roadside eateries and bazaars refused. Budget PKR 5,000 daily to cover meals, taxis, and activities. Always carry cash, because you’ll need it most of the time. If your card keeps declining, it’s not your bank-it’s just the system. Withdraw rupees whenever you find a working ATM.

Pakistan is mostly a cash economy. My Visa was accepted at Standard Chartered ATMs in Lahore but declined elsewhere. In markets, buses, and restaurants, cash was the only option. Budget PKR 4,500-6,000 daily if you’re moving around cities and visiting attractions like Badshahi Mosque. If your card keeps failing, don’t worry-it’s common. Carry enough rupees and withdraw in larger cities before heading to smaller towns. Cards work in high-end hotels but not everyday shops.

I had my Mastercard declined at multiple ATMs in Karachi before MCB Bank finally worked. Many stores in Saddar and local restaurants were cash-only. International cards are unreliable here, even if your bank has enabled usage. Budget about PKR 5,000 daily for meals, transport, and attractions like Mohatta Palace. Bring cash whenever possible, and keep USD as backup for exchanging. If your card keeps declining, try another major bank ATM like UBL or Habib Bank.

Pakistan can be difficult for foreign cards. In Islamabad, my Visa was declined at two ATMs before Habib Bank Limited worked. Smaller cities often don’t process international transactions at all. Shops and markets are cash-only, while bigger hotels in Lahore or Karachi accept cards. Budget PKR 4,000-6,000 daily for meals, taxis, and sightseeing. Always carry rupees in cash, because card rejection is very common outside major malls or hotels.