The Kurdistan Regional Government has introduced strict rules for banks joining the “My Account” program. This program aims to modernize salary payments and improve financial services across Erbil, Sulaimani, and Duhok.
Aziz Ahmad, Deputy Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, shared the details on social media. He explained that banks must meet high international standards and invest in strong customer service systems. They also must provide debit cards usable abroad and keep a wide network of ATMs and branches.
In addition, Ahmad stressed that sanctioned or delisted banks cannot join. The program also bans the “point of cash” model and rejects any extra, unregulated fees. These measures ensure that people receive safe and transparent banking services.
The “My Account” program has now registered over 800,000 public employees. Official data shows 391,810 registered in Erbil, 218,175 in Sulaimani, and 200,155 in Duhok. This progress moves the program closer to its goal of serving over one million beneficiaries.
Currently, more than 400,000 users receive their salaries digitally each month. They can access their funds through over 400 ATMs spread across the region. The initiative has also started including pensioners in a pilot phase.
First launched in February 2023 by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, this program is a major step toward reducing cash transactions and expanding financial inclusion in the Kurdistan Region.