PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly has passed the Overseas Pakistanis Property Act 2026 to protect properties owned by overseas Pakistanis and ensure faster resolution of related disputes.
The law, introduced by Provincial Law Minister Aftab Alam, is aimed at preventing illegal occupation, unlawful transfer, and other property-related issues faced by expatriates in the province.
Under the Act, special courts will be established across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in consultation with the Peshawar High Court. These courts will be headed by judges of the rank of Additional District and Sessions Judge, while pending property cases involving overseas Pakistanis will also be transferred to the special courts.
The law requires such cases to be decided within 120 days, while appeals must be filed within 15 days. Overseas Pakistanis will also be able to submit applications online, making the legal process more accessible for those living abroad.
The Act further allows testimony to be recorded through video link, enabling applicants to take part in court proceedings without travelling to Pakistan. Court notices may also be served through mobile phones, email, and mosques to improve communication and reduce delays.
The legislation also includes provisions to stop illegal transfer of properties and assist in rent recovery for overseas Pakistanis. Officials said the measure is intended to strengthen legal protection, improve access to justice, and build confidence among expatriates regarding their properties in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
For more news on real estate and special reports, visit Chakor Ventures.
BBC-featured Content Specialist with a sharp eye for search intent and a proven ability to turn content into a growth engine. I leverage cutting-edge digital marketing tools to craft strategies that fuel organic traffic, amplify brand growth, and own the local SEO landscape, particularly across the competitive real estate market. I help brands dominate search rankings and convert visibility into measurable business success.
