Traveler's Checks: Where To Buy Them In Pakistan

If you're looking to buy traveller's cheques in Pakistan, you can purchase them in US currency from any ZARCO branch in the country. ZARCO cheques are accepted at over 400,000 locations worldwide and can be used to make purchases or exchanged for cash at any bank or bureau de change. Alternatively, you can check out Amex's website or call their customer services to buy their traveller's cheques.

ZARCO branches in Pakistan

ZARCO Exchange is a foreign exchange market company based in Lahore, Pakistan. It is one of the largest Western Union agents in Pakistan and was ranked the second-largest nationwide after Khanani & Kalia International in 2009.

ZARCO Exchange has a large-scale network of offices and branches across Pakistan. The company introduced its own Visa traveller's cheques, which are accepted at over 400,000 locations worldwide.

In 2009, ZARCO became embroiled in the Pakistan Forex Scam Case, which resulted in the suspension of its license and the closure of all 727 of its offices. However, after a complex legal dispute, the company was eventually cleared of all charges, and its license was restored in 2011.

While I cannot find a comprehensive list of all ZARCO branches in Pakistan, their website may provide more information on their branch locations.

Amex customer services

• 9221 263 0260
• +1 801.964 6665
• +1 9054740870
• +1 8006682639

In addition to contacting Amex customer services, you can also visit a currency exchange to purchase traveller's cheques. ZARCO Exchange is one such place where you can purchase traveller's cheques in US currency from any ZARCO branch in Pakistan.

Currency exchange

Traveller's Cheques

Traveller's cheques are a secure and convenient way to carry money while travelling. They are accepted at numerous locations worldwide and can be easily replaced if lost or stolen. In Pakistan, ZARCO Exchange offers traveller's cheques in US currency, which can be purchased at any of their branches in the country. These cheques have no expiration date, so you can save any unused cheques for future trips. It is important to sign each cheque before travelling and carry your passport or equivalent identification when cashing them.

When it comes to currency exchange in Pakistan, there are a few options to consider:

• Currency Exchange Businesses: Pakistan has several reputable currency exchange businesses, such as ZARCO Exchange, that offer services like purchasing and exchanging traveller's cheques, remittances, and currency exchange. They provide a safe and convenient way to exchange money and are usually found in major cities.
• Banks: Local banks in Pakistan can assist with currency exchange. They can provide services such as exchanging traveller's cheques, purchasing foreign currency, and issuing bank drafts. It is recommended to have a local currency account or a $ account with a bank to utilise these services effectively.
• Hotels and Resorts: When travelling in Pakistan, some hotels and resorts may offer currency exchange services for their guests. This can be a convenient option, especially if you are staying in well-known tourist areas.

Alternatives to Traveller's Cheques

While traveller's cheques offer security and peace of mind, they might not be accepted everywhere and can incur fees for usage and replacement. Modern alternatives, such as credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, and mobile wallets, are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and widespread acceptance. These options provide flexibility and ease of use, both within Pakistan and internationally.

Bank draft

A bank draft is a payment method that is similar to a check but is guaranteed by the issuing bank. Bank drafts are often used for larger payments, such as a down payment on a home, and are regarded as more secure than personal checks. When a customer requests a bank draft, the bank verifies that their account contains enough money to cover the requested amount. The bank then withdraws the funds from the customer's account and deposits them into a separate account owned by the bank. The bank then prepares a physical document containing the payee's name and the amount, along with a serial number, watermarks, and possibly micro-encoding. The customer is typically charged a fee for the bank draft.

In the context of your question, a user on a Canada Immigration Forum advised getting a bank draft instead of traveller's checks. They mentioned that a bank draft would cost less and can be obtained from any local bank in Pakistan with a $ account or from a currency exchange for a nominal fee of around PKR 3000-4000.

American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc

While American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. serves customers in the State of New York, American Express travellers cheques can be exchanged worldwide. However, it is important to note that American Express no longer issues travellers cheques, so they cannot be purchased.

If you are looking to redeem your travellers cheques, you can do so directly with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. online or over the phone by calling their customer service line. You can also deposit your travellers cheques with your bank, exchange them for local currency at foreign exchange partners, or redeem them directly for goods and services at eligible merchant locations.

It is recommended that you carry your original cheque purchase receipt and a form of photo identification when travelling. Additionally, be aware that commission charges and exchange limits may apply, varying by country and exchange partner.

Frequently asked questions