Bank account holders across Pakistan are facing financial pressure as commercial banks have increased fees for withdrawing money from ATMs of other banks. The fee has been increased from Rs 23.44 to Rs 35 per transaction with effect from July 2025.
The new fee structure has been implemented in the banking sector, which is included in the latest “Schedule of Charges” issued by various banks. The increase in fees reflects rising operational costs and changes in the way banks transact.
The fee is applicable to customers who withdraw money from an ATM of a bank other than their bank of account. The increase has raised concerns among customers who frequently use ATMs, especially those residing in areas where access to their own bank’s machines is limited.
A large portion of the fee collected is paid to “One Link,” the entity that interconnects the ATM network across Pakistan. The bank operating the ATM machine—the “host bank”—receives a smaller portion of the fee but is fully responsible for the maintenance and servicing of the machine.
Banking experts say that while the increase may seem insignificant, it could add up to a financial burden for customers who frequently use ATMs of other banks, especially in remote or underserved areas.
