PM Says Government Will Expand EOBI Coverage for Senior Citizens

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on October 1, 2026 that the government is taking steps to broaden EOBI coverage and strengthen social and economic protection for senior citizens.

The statement was issued on the International Day of Older Persons and also highlighted digital pension verification and additional support for deserving elderly beneficiaries.

What did the Prime Minister announce?

The Prime Minister highlighted three areas of work: broader coverage under EOBI, digital verification for pensioners and additional financial assistance for eligible senior citizens through social-protection programmes.

He said pensioners can use digital verification to obtain life certificates from home rather than relying only on physical office visits.

Does this mean everyone over 60 is now covered by EOBI?

No. EOBI remains a contributory pension system with specific eligibility rules. The Prime Minister’s statement refers to expansion of coverage, not automatic pension entitlement for every senior citizen.

For the existing eligibility framework, see our EOBI pension application and eligibility guide.

How does broader EOBI coverage fit with current reforms?

The government is separately considering pension options for people outside formal employment. Our report on the proposed voluntary pension scheme for informal workers explains those discussions.

The draft EOBI Bill 2026 also contains proposals for broader participation by self-employed people, overseas Pakistanis and other groups.

What about digital life certificates?

Digital verification is intended to reduce the need for elderly pensioners to repeatedly visit offices for proof-of-life procedures.

For overseas and remote pensioners, see our detailed update on EOBI proof-of-life and NADRA digital verification.

Has a new pension amount been announced?

No new EOBI pension amount was announced in the Prime Minister’s October 1 message. Pension rate changes are a separate process linked to EOBI’s financial and actuarial position.

Readers can follow our latest actuarial valuation update for developments relevant to future pension decisions.

Final words

The government’s stated direction is toward broader EOBI coverage and easier digital services for older citizens. The key issue now is how these commitments are converted into formal eligibility, registration and implementation rules.

Source: Associated Press of Pakistan and Prime Minister’s International Day of Older Persons message, October 1, 2026.