Empower your IT business by registering with PSEB and gaining access to tailored incentives that fuel expansion, improve efficiency, and elevate your brand globally.
From new startups to established tech leaders, we offer the tools, connections, and support needed to thrive.
Let’s grow together and build a stronger, more competitive Pakistani IT industry on the world stage.
Business NTN | Business Bank Account Opening/Maintenance Certificate |
CNIC (both sides) of Owner/Stakeholders/Partners | Passport of Owner/Stakeholders/Partners (for foreign nationals) |
Partnership Deed for Association of Persons | Form C for Registered Firms only |
For the Renewal of Companies Latest Tax Return (Form 114 of FBR) is required only.
New | Renewal | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Companies/Firms established within a year (less than 12 months) | Rs. 5,000 | Revenue generated from 0-50 million PKR | Rs. 10,000 |
Companies/Firms established for more than a year (more than 12 months) | Rs. 10,000 | Revenue generated from 50 – 100 million PKR | Rs. 15,000 |
Revenue generated from 100-300 million PKR | Rs. 20,000 | ||
Revenue generated from 300-600 million PKR | Rs. 25,000 | ||
Revenue generated from 600 million PKR and above | Rs. 30,000 | ||
Surcharge amount if applied after the expiration of validity | Rs. 5,000 |
PSEB membership fees can be paid using either of the following options:
Beneficiary:
Pakistan Software Export Board, 2nd Floor, Evacuee Trust Complex, Agha Khan Rd, F-5/1 F-5, Islamabad.
NTN: 2315376
To facilitate applicants, PSEB has uploaded a comprehensive FAQs section, which can be accessed below.
For support, please reach out to us at:
[email protected]
0800-01010
Business NTN | Business Bank Account Opening/Maintenance Certificate |
CNIC (both sides) of Owner/Stakeholders/Partners | Passport of Owner/Stakeholders/Partners (for foreign nationals) |
Partnership Deed for Association of Persons | Form C for Registered Firms only |
For the Renewal of Call Centers Latest Tax Return (Form 114 of FBR) is required only.
New | Renewal | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Main Office (per year) | Rs. 20,000 | Main Office (per year) | Rs. 20,000 |
Each Branch Office (per year) | Rs. 10,000 | Each Branch Office (per year) | Rs. 10,000 |
Surcharge amount if applied after the expiration of validity | Rs. 10,000 |
PSEB membership fees can be paid using either of the following options:
Beneficiary:
Pakistan Software Export Board, 2nd Floor, Evacuee Trust Complex, Agha Khan Rd, F-5/1 F-5, Islamabad.
NTN: 2315376
To facilitate applicants, PSEB has uploaded a comprehensive FAQs section, which can be accessed below.
For support, please reach out to us at:
[email protected]
0800-01010
Personal NTN (with no business) |
Personal Bank Account Opening/Maintenance Certificate |
CNIC of Individual |
For the Renewal of Freelancers Latest Tax Return (Form 114 of FBR) is required only.
New | Renewal | ||
|---|---|---|---|
New Freelancer | Rs. 1,000 | Renewal Freelancer | Rs. 2,000 |
PSEB membership fees can be paid using either of the following options:
Beneficiary:
Pakistan Software Export Board, 2nd Floor, Evacuee Trust Complex, Agha Khan Rd, F-5/1 F-5, Islamabad.
NTN: 2315376
For support, please reach out to us at:
[email protected]
0800-01010
IP whitelisting is the process of allowing specific IP addresses to access certain systems or networks. For call centers registered with PSEB, IP whitelisting ensures that only authorized locations and devices are used for operations, enhancing data security and regulatory compliance.
Only registered call centers with a valid PSEB Certificate are eligible to apply for IP whitelisting. The call center must also have an approved office location and dedicated IP(s) for operations.
You will need to provide:
Submit your request via official email to PSEB or through the PSEB portal (if available), attaching the required documents. PSEB may verify your office location or seek clarification before approval.
No. PSEB requires static IP addresses to ensure consistent access and traceability. Dynamic IPs are not acceptable for whitelisting.
It typically takes 3–5 working days, depending on the completeness of the application and verification process.
Yes, you can request whitelisting for more than one static IP, especially if you have backup internet connections or multiple operational nodes.
You must inform PSEB immediately and submit a new IP whitelisting request. The previous IP(s) will be deactivated, and the new IP(s) will be validated and whitelisted.
Currently, PSEB does not charge any fee for IP whitelisting. However, this policy is subject to change.
You may contact the PSEB Support Desk at [email protected] or call the helpline number mentioned on the official website.
If you haven’t received a confirmation within 3–5 working days, you should send a follow-up email to ([email protected]) with your call center name, registration number, and a copy of your original request for reference.
You must request an extension of your provisional certificate by emailing ([email protected]) with your call center details and justification for the extension, while simultaneously following up on your IP whitelisting status.
Before applying for IP whitelisting, you must first update your office address with PSEB. Submit a formal request with supporting documents via your registered email.
Currently, PSEB does not provide an online status tracker for IP whitelisting. You should check your email for replies from ([email protected]) or send a follow-up email if no response is received within the expected processing time.
No, your renewal must be in an approved or provisional status. If your renewal is pending, complete the necessary steps before submitting your IP whitelisting request.
Yes. To avoid delays, your email subject should be IP Whitelisting Request,(Your Call Center Name), (PSEB Registration Number). In the email body, clearly mention your ISP name, static IP(s), and attach your provisional or registration certificate.
If the portal lacks the IP whitelisting option, you should send your request via email to ([email protected]) with the required details and attachments.
The Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) was established in July 1976 to implement the EOB Act of 1970. Its purpose is to provide pension and other financial benefits to employees of industrial, commercial, and other organizations in Pakistan during old age or disability. In the event of an employee’s death, EOBI continues to support their spouse and minor children, or, if there are none, the elderly parents for up to five years.
EOBI is a semi-autonomous government institution operating under the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development.
EOBI covers factories, commercial establishments, private schools, charitable organizations, department stores, security companies, and similar institutions.
These institutions are required to register their employees with EOBI, making them eligible for pensions or grants when due.
Employees or workers who are registered with EOBI and have been making contributions can be entitled to a pension or grant from the age of 60 for male employees and 55 for female employees.
The amount that employers of all organizations registered in EOBI pay is 5 percent on the first 37,000 rupees of each employee’s wages and 1 percent of the employee’s wages per month. This amount is called a contribution.
Payment of contribution is mandatory for every employee, but if the salary or wages of an employee or worker is more than 37 thousand rupees, then the contribution from the employer and the employee is not calculated on the entire salary, but only on the first 37 thousand rupees. That means 5 percent by the employer, which is 1,850 rupees, and 1 percent by the employee, which is 370 rupees, is collected. Thus, the total contribution is 2,220 rupees per month.
Form No. 03-PR is available in every regional office of EOBI for payment of contribution. This is actually a payment slip. It has four copies. The employer or his representative fills out this form and submits his and his employees’ share of the contribution to the authorized bank branch in his area. One copy of the form is given to the employer, one copy is retained by the bank, the third copy is sent to the Central Bank branch in Karachi, and the fourth copy is sent to the relevant EOBI office.
No EOBI officer can directly receive contributions in the form of cash or cheque from an employer or any of its representatives.
There are regional and field offices of EOBI in various cities and towns where registration forms for employers and their employees or workers are available. Once an institution is registered as per the law, it is mandatory for the employer to register his institution and employees with EOBI within thirty (30) days. The form number for employer registration is 01-PR, and the form on which the employer provides details about the employees is called PE01. EOBI issues a registration card to every employee or worker of the institution upon
registration. This card is called PI-03.
The answer is absolutely yes. For this, the employee can approach the nearest EOBI office with proof of his employment, provided that his institution is already registered with EOBI or is eligible for registration as per the law. For the direct registration of any employee or
worker, an application has to be made on Form No. PE-02, which is available at every EOBI office.
No. The registration card issued by EOBI to an employee or worker is his personal property, and it includes his registration number. The employer should hand over the registration card of each of his employees or workers to them. If an employee leaves his first job for any
reason and starts working in another place, he does not need to register again at the new place. He can submit his contribution to EOBI by giving his new employer a photocopy of the old registration card or by providing his registration number. In this way, his first employment is also recorded and he benefits from it.
This pension is paid to registered employees who have completed at least fifteen years of insurable employment (i.e., 15 years of registered employment with payment of contributions).
If a registered employee, with at least five years of contributions, becomes disabled by twothirds or more due to a non-occupational disability, he will continue to receive a disability pension for as long as the disability persists.
In the event of the death of a registered pensioner:
Additional survivor benefits include:
This grant is given to all registered employees who have completed at least two years of insurable employment by the age of 60 (or 55 years for women and conscripts), and are not eligible for old-age pension under the rules.
A registered employee or worker who is entitled to a pension has to submit an application on plain paper, get it certified by his employer (owner), and submit it to the relevant office of EOBI. There, he is given the pension claim documents (CAM form), which he fills out and submits to the office through his employer. It is mandatory to submit the following documents and their photocopies along with the claim form:
1. Two recent, certified passport-sized photographs
2. Attested copy of the National Identity Card
3. EOBI Registration Card (PI-03)
4. A certified certificate stating that all deductions have been paid and the worker has not
filed any previous claims
5. Salary certificate for the last year of employment, certified by the employer
6. Employment certificate from the employer
After the pension benefits are processed, they should be deposited in the relevant regional or field office, and a receipt should be obtained. That office completes the process within 30 days and issues a pension card to the pensioner. The pensioner can then receive the pension every month from any approved bank branch nearest to his residence.
According to the regulations, if an employee or worker is entitled to a pension, the amount is calculated using the following formula:
Total years of registered employment × Average salary or wages of the last year (on which contributions were received) ÷ 50
The government has fixed the minimum pension at Rs. 10,000 per month.
No. There is no fee for any EOBI form required for registration or to receive a pension. Furthermore, no employee or officer of the institution is authorized to collect any money from an employer or employee in connection with the generation of contributions or the payment of pensions.
If any person demands money for any form or service, the complainant should directly approach the senior officer of the concerned office, or report the issue to the EOBI Head Office in Karachi.
SBP oversees the regulation of financial transactions in Pakistan, including payments for IT services, ensuring compliance with international standards and facilitating the growth of IT exports.
Yes, Pakistan’s IT companies are allowed to receive payments from foreign clients through designated payment channels, subject to compliance with SBP regulations.
IT companies must register with the relevant authorities (e.g., FBR for tax purposes) and open a Foreign Currency Account with an authorized bank to receive payments
Payments for IT services such as software development, consultancy, and other tech-related services can be received.
A Foreign Currency Account allows businesses to hold foreign currencies such as USD, EUR, etc., for transactions with overseas clients.
SBP encourages IT exports and facilitates the inflow of foreign remittances through streamlined regulations and policies.
Foreign remittances are not restricted for IT companies, but they must comply with the prescribed SBP procedures for repatriation and taxation.
IT companies must report foreign income and pay taxes in accordance with Pakistan’s tax laws under FBR guidelines, and they may qualify for tax exemptions under the IT sector’s specific tax regime.
Currently, SBP does not support PayPal in Pakistan, but companies can use alternative channels such as wire transfers, Payoneer, or other banking services.
They must maintain proper documentation, report foreign remittances, and ensure that payments are routed through authorized banking channels.
SBP encourages IT companies to receive payments through legal banking channels, offering special schemes like the IT export remittance scheme to simplify repatriation.
A scheme that allows IT companies to repatriate 100% of their foreign earnings, providing ease in conversion of foreign currency to PKR and offering benefits like faster repatriation procedures.
Yes, an IT company can maintain multiple Foreign Currency Accounts for receiving payments, subject to SBP’s approval and regulations.
There are no specific limits on the amount of foreign remittance; however, SBP regulations require documentation for large transactions.
Yes, IT companies must report all foreign transactions as per SBP’s guidelines to ensure compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) regulations.
Violations can lead to penalties such as fines, suspension of services, or even legal actions depending on the severity of the infraction.
Generally, SBP requires IT companies to open accounts with local authorized banks for foreign remittances. Foreign bank accounts may be allowed under specific circumstances, but prior approval is needed.
SBP does not currently recognize or regulate cryptocurrency transactions in Pakistan. IT companies must avoid accepting payments in cryptocurrencies.
Yes, SBP provides support for the IT sector by offering various schemes, credit facilities, and favorable policies to encourage exports and growth in the technology sector.
IT companies can convert foreign currency into PKR through their authorized bank. The bank will follow SBP’s guidelines regarding conversion rates and associated fees.
Repatriation involves converting foreign earnings into PKR through an authorized bank. IT companies need to submit relevant invoices, contracts, and tax documents for this process.
While registering with SBP is not mandatory, IT companies must ensure compliance with tax laws, foreign remittance regulations, and banking procedures when receiving payments from abroad.
Non-compliance can result in penalties, delayed payments, or issues with repatriation of funds, affecting the business operations of the IT company.
IT companies can benefit from SBP’s initiatives such as tax exemptions, easier remittance procedures, and access to government-backed funding or schemes designed to boost IT exports.
Yes, SBP offers financing facilities for the IT sector through its various schemes like the Technology Development Fund, aimed at helping companies scale up their operations and export capabilities.
Packet loss is typically caused by network congestion, faulty hardware, interference, ormisconfigured routers. It can be fixed by optimizing network settings, replacing faultycables/equipment, using wired connections for critical operations, and escalatingpersistent issues to your ISP.
Peak hour slowdowns occur during high-traffic times (e.g., mid-morning or late evening) when many users are online simultaneously. This can reduce browsing speed, hinder video conferencing, or delay cloud uploads. Businesses should discuss bandwidth provisioning or dedicated connections with their ISP to avoid this.
Use reliable tools such as Speedtest.net, Fast.com, or command-line utilities like ping and traceroute. Always test on a wired connection, with minimal background usage, and record results regularly to track performance trends or SLA compliance.
VPNs add encryption overhead and route traffic through remote servers, which may reduce browsing or streaming speed. Choose high-quality VPNs with local Pakistani or regional servers and ensure sufficient bandwidth is available for secure connections.
High ping to SEA, Europe, or MENA regions can be due to ISP routing inefficiencies, bandwidth bottlenecks, or undersea cable congestion. Use traceroute tools to identify the hop delays and consider discussing international bandwidth peering or routing improvements with your ISP.
Latency issues can arise from overloaded routers, too many simultaneous connections, outdated firmware, or interference on Wi-Fi. Use QoS settings, limit non-essential traffic, and consider upgrading infrastructure for better performance.
Use wired connections for VoIP and video tools (like Zoom or MS Teams), enable QoS to prioritize such apps, and ensure no large background downloads are active during meetings. Selecting the closest server during app setup also helps.
Frequent disconnections can be caused by unstable power supply, old routers/modems, damaged cables, or inconsistent ISP service. Ensure equipment is grounded and up-to-date, and contact your ISP if instability persists.
Ensure video apps are prioritized via router settings (QoS), avoid sharing bandwidth with streaming/downloads, use wired connections, and test speeds regularly. Discuss dedicated bandwidth or enterprise-grade service plans with your ISP.
Uploads consume outbound bandwidth, often overwhelming connections with limited upload capacity. Schedule backups during off-peak hours or upgrade to higher symmetrical bandwidth packages suited for cloud-intensive operations.
Many ISPs offer asymmetrical plans with lower upload speeds. This can affect cloud backups, video calls, or server syncs. Businesses should opt for symmetrical enterprise connections, especially if providing online services.
2.4 GHz offers longer range but slower speed, while 5 GHz provides higher speed but shorter range. For high-performance setups, use 5 GHz in proximity to the router, or consider a dualband mesh network.
If speeds drop only during specific apps (like YouTube or torrents) or at certain times, throttling may be occurring. Run speed tests across multiple apps and times. If consistent patterns emerge, discuss it with your ISP or request a business-class plan.
Unstable sync can result from poor upload speeds, misconfigured firewall settings, or bandwidth saturation. Ensure QoS prioritizes cloud services, schedule syncs off-peak, and consult the ISP for consistent upstream performance.
Use network monitoring tools like PRTG, GlassWire, or router-level traffic analyzers. These help pinpoint devices consuming the most data, allowing administrators to apply usage policies or bandwidth restrictions.
Recommended tools include:
Large downloads can saturate available bandwidth, reducing speed for all other users. Implement bandwidth limits, use scheduling, or segregate heavy download activities to a separate VLAN or secondary network.
Each remote user typically needs 5–10 Mbps for stable operations. For a hybrid setup of 10 users, a minimum of 100 Mbps dedicated bandwidth (preferably symmetrical) is advisable for smooth performance.
Slow sites may be hosted on overloaded servers or use far-away CDNs. Use tools like GTmetrix to analyze website performance and consider DNS-based routing optimizations for better regional access.
Jitter is the variation in packet arrival time, leading to voice lag or video distortion. Low jitter (<30 ms) is ideal. High jitter often results from poor routing or network congestion and needs ISP-level troubleshooting.
Fluctuations are often due to shared bandwidth congestion during peak hours, automatic background updates, or ISP over-subscription. Businesses should monitor usage patterns and negotiate stable business-class service SLAs.
Use VLAN segmentation and router-based monitoring tools to assign and track bandwidth by department. Enterprise-grade routers allow traffic shaping and per-group reporting.
Key upgrades include:
Placement in central, open areas minimizes signal obstruction and interference. Avoid placing routers near metal objects, walls, or microwaves. Mounting them at higher locations improves overall coverage.
Check for:
Ensure background processes are off, use wired testing, test at multiple times, and compare with SLA limits. Frequent inconsistencies should be logged and reported to the ISP.
Use ping [website] or tracert commands in Command Prompt. Repeated high response times or timeouts indicate latency or routing issues. Use this as supporting data when contacting your ISP.
QoS prioritizes critical traffic like voice or video over regular browsing. Enabling QoS on business routers ensures smoother operation during bandwidth-heavy tasks and prevents disruption during meetings or client calls.
Signs include slow internet despite high bandwidth, long loading times, and poor video call quality. Use monitoring tools to check simultaneous usage and perform traceroute tests to detect bottlenecks.
Yes. Most ISPs offer usage summaries or real-time dashboards to business clients. These logs are essential for audit trails, planning upgrades, or filing performance-based complaints.
Include:
FBR stands for Federal Board of Revenue.
Business entities and individuals earning taxable income are obligated to get registered with FBR under the Laws of Pakistan.
Individuals and business entities can get registered with FBR via the online portal (https://iris.fbr.gov.pk).
Yes
No, there is no fee for FBR Registration.
NTN stands for National Tax Number. It is issued for Income Tax Matters.
STN stands for Sales Tax Number. It is required for businesses engaged in taxable sales under the Sales Tax Act 1990.
Yes.
Yes.
Yes, salaried individuals can register with the FBR without a business.
A filer is a taxpayer whose name appears in the Active Taxpayers List (ATL) maintained by the FBR. The timely submission of annual income tax returns achieves this status.
Yes
Form 181 explains the business details, including the Business name, activity, and date of establishment.
It is the Tax Return Form
Form 114 is also known as Tax Return document.
It can be downloaded from FBR’s website (https://iris.fbr.gov.pk)
An AOP refers to two or more individuals or entities who come together for a business purpose and share profits and losses. In the context of Pakistani law, partnership firms are typically registered as AOPs.
A minimum of two partners is required to form a partnership. There is no fixed upper limit under the Partnership Act, but for tax purposes, the structure should remain manageable and compliant.
Registration is not legally mandatory, but it is highly recommended.
A Partnership Deed can be made privately by the partners themselves, with the help of a lawyer, or through a legal documentation service.
The Registrar of Firms is a provincial government authority responsible for registering and regulating partnership firms under the Partnership Act, 1932.
A registered firm has legal recognition, can enter into contracts, and has access to legal protections. A non-registered firm operates informally and lacks legal standing for the enforcement of business rights.
Yes. An AOP is treated as a distinct taxpayer and must obtain its own NTN from FBR, separate
from the personal NTN of individual partners.
Yes
The foreign partner must have valid identification and documentation.
Form C of a Partnership Firm in Pakistan is a document issued by the Registrar of Firms (under the Partnership Act, 1932) that serves as proof of registration of the firm.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) is the apex regulatory authority responsible for the incorporation, regulation, and supervision of companies, corporate entities, and capital markets in Pakistan.
A Private Limited Company requires at least two shareholders, whereas A Single Member Company (SMC) is owned by one person and has simplified governance.
Company registration is done online through the SECP’s eServices portal: https://eservices.secp.gov.pk
Yes, an SMC can be converted into a Private Limited Company by adding new shareholders and submitting the appropriate forms and a special resolution to the SECP.
SECP provides pre-approved MOA and AOA templates for common business categories (e.g., trading, services, IT, manufacturing). These are available on SECP’s website and can be downloaded, filled, and submitted through the eServices portal.
The MOA defines the company’s external scope, such as the company name, registered office, business objectives, and share capital. It outlines the company’s relationship with the outside world and limits the activities it can legally perform.
The AOA governs the company’s internal management and outlines rules for board meetings, voting rights, director appointments, share transfers, dividend distribution, and the responsibilities of shareholders and directors.
It is the official document issued by SECP confirming that a company has been legally registered under the Companies Act, 2017. It includes the company’s name, registration number, and date of incorporation.
It is known as the Company Universal Identification Number. It is mentioned in the Certificate of Incorporation.
With online submission and correct documentation, registration may take 1–3 working days for most companies.
No, the entire registration process is online.
There is no minimum capital requirement for private companies in Pakistan
No.
It is an annual return filing form showing the company structure and compliance.
It is used to notify SECP of changes in directors, CEO, or company secretaries.
FBR registration makes a company a registered taxpayer, which is why it is required.
Yes, foreign individuals or entities can register companies in Pakistan.
Yes, you can apply for a change of company name through a special resolution and submit Form 26 along with the required documents and fee to the SECP. A fresh Certificate of Incorporation will be issued.
A Section 42 company is a non-profit organization registered for charitable, educational, religious, or social purposes. It requires a license from SECP before incorporation and must use profits solely for the approved objectives.
Foreign companies can apply for registration of a branch or liaison office by submitting prescribed forms, a business plan, parent company documents, and security clearance from the concerned ministries.
Any individual, Association of Persons (AoP), or company earning above the applicable exemption limit (e.g., PKR 600,000 annual income for salaried individuals) must file an income tax return, generally by September 30 (extensions are common)
The tax year in Pakistan typically runs from July 1st to June 30th of the following year. For example, the tax year 2024 would cover income earned from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024.
Required documents include:
Use the FBR Iris portal or the Tax Asaan mobile app (Android & iOS) for:
The standard due date is September 30 annually, with potential extensions notified by the FBR
Late filing leads to fines and designation as an Inactive/Late Filer, which:
Corrections can be made within 60 days of filing by submitting a revised return electronically.
ATL categorizes taxpayers as:
ATL categorizes taxpayers as:
WHT applies on payments like salaries, contracting, and utilities. Rates vary by payer:
Active Filers enjoy lower rates (e.g., 5.5%)
Non-Filers face doubled rates (e.g., 11% or higher)
Yes. For non-filers, 0.6% advance tax applies on total withdrawals exceeding PKR 50,000/day
While a 0.6% advance tax applies on total withdrawals exceeding PKR 50,000/day for non-filers, certain types of accounts or transactions might be exempt, though specific details would need to be checked against current FBR regulations
Non-filers pay advance tax at higher rates (e.g., 35% on immovable property, revised in recent budgets) .
Non-filers are subject to elevated WHT and advance taxes across multiple transactions, e.g.:
Goods: 18% (federal)
Services: 15%, consistent in KPK and most provinces
Certain items are exempt under the Sixth Schedule of the Sales Tax Act 1990. Details are available via the FBR portal
Provincial authorities (e.g., Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Revenue Authority) regulate sales tax on services, while FBR handles goods
You can typically verify a business’s sales tax registration status through the FBR’s online portal by entering their NTN or STRN
Input tax adjustment allows a sales tax-registered business to deduct the sales tax it has paid on its purchases (input tax) from the sales tax it has collected on its sales (output tax). This mechanism ensures that tax is paid only on the value added at each stage of the supply chain.
Federal sales tax, administered by the FBR, is primarily levied on the sale of goods. Provincial sales tax, administered by provincial revenue authorities (e.g., Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Revenue Authority, Sindh Revenue Board, Punjab Revenue Authority, is levied on services .
File your return electronically—manual filings are ineligible. Refunds are paid postverification
File a grievance with the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) using Form A (online or via post), within 6 months of the incident
Register NTN/STRN online via IRIS or Tax Asaan app to receive a unique taxpayer ID
It’s FBR’s official mobile app enabling easy filing, registration, payments, and access to tax status and notices .
Yes—Tax Asaan provides real-time ATL checking and access to your tax profile and notices.
Keep tax documents, statements, and receipts for at least four years from filing.
Non-filers face:
The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) handles complaints against FBR.
The tax rate is slab-based and progressive. For FY 2024-25, salaried individuals are taxed according to income brackets defined by the FBR. (Refer to the latest Finance Act for updated slabs.)
Yes. Even if tax is deducted at source, filing a tax return is mandatory for salaried individuals earning above the minimum taxable income.
NTN stands for National Tax Number. It is assigned when you register with FBR. All salaried individuals earning above the taxable limit should have an NTN and be listed as active taxpayers.
File past returns in IRIS; pay applicable taxes/penalties to become active again
Yes. You can use your home address for registration, but you may be required to provide utility bills or landlord consent. In-person verification may be conducted by FBR.
Yes. After online NTN registration, you must verify your identity through NADRA e- Sahulat centers or FBR-designated biometric points for full access to the IRIS system.
Yes. If earnings are remitted to a Pakistani bank account, they are considered Pakistan-source income and subject to income tax, unless exempted under IT exporter rules.
Yes, if they are dependents and you have their consent, you may manage their IRIS profile, but each individual must file their own return under their CNIC/NTN.
No tax is levied on foreign remittances sent through official banking channels. However, misdeclared income disguised as remittance may attract audit and penalties.
As of now, cryptocurrency is not officially regulated, but any profit earned may be declared as “capital gains” or “miscellaneous income” under self-declaration principles.
Yes, under Section 60C of the Income Tax Ordinance, individuals can claim tax credit on the markup paid on housing finance—subject to FBR-prescribed limits.
Register as an IT/ITES startup with Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and apply for exemption under Section 100D by submitting a certificate via IRIS
Yes. All tax paid through mobile phone usage (identified by your CNIC) is adjustable and should be claimed in your return under “Adjustable Taxes”.
FBR may issue a notice and audit your return. In case of misreporting, penalties and additional tax may apply under Sections 182 and 122 of the Ordinance.
Yes. If the property generates rental income or capital gains (from sale), NRPs must file a return and declare the income, even if they are abroad.
No. Zakat is not a tax-deductible expense in your return. However, charitable donations (under Section 61) to approved organizations are.
FBR may impose penalties and issue a best judgment assessment. This can block your ATL status, result in forced recovery, and even legal action.
Yes. You can file a “nil return” to stay active on ATL, especially useful for students, dependents, and dormant businesses.
If your profession, income source, or contact details change, update your tax profile inIRIS under “Registration Modification” to avoid discrepancies or rejection of returns.
All IT/ITeS businesses must register with:
Taxpayers must file:
Yes, registered freelancers providing IT/ITeS to clients outside Pakistan may qualify
for:
Penalty: Up to PKR 50,000 or more depending on delay.
Non-filer status leads to:
Yes, Provincial Sales Tax may apply. However, exports of services are generally zero-rated or exempt (subject to documentation and proof of remittance).
Yes, under SEZs, STPs, and PSEB registration, startups may receive:
Only if they:
In Pakistan, Income Tax is the primary tax applicable on salaried income. It is deducted at source by the employer each month and submitted to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) under the Withholding Tax regime as per Section 149 of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001.
Business Checking Account: For day-to-day operations such as paying bills, managing payroll, and receiving client payments.
Business Savings Account: To set aside funds for future investments, tax liabilities, or emergency funds.
Merchant Services Account: For companies that need to process payments online, whether it’s credit card payments, subscriptions, or e commerce transactions.
Business Loans and Lines of Credit:To help with working capital, equipment purchases, or expansion.
Invoice Financing: Banks may offer invoice factoring services where they can advance payment on your outstanding invoices.
Foreign Exchange: For IT companies that deal with international clients and need to exchange foreign currencies.
Merchant Services: This includes credit card processing, payment gateway setups, and recurring billing systems.
Treasury Management: For managing cash flow efficiently, optimizing liquidity, and protecting against fraud.
Separate Personal and Business Accounts: It’s critical for tax, legal, and financial clarity.
Track Expenses: Use your bank’s online tools or integrate your account with accounting software to track expenses in real-time.
Maintain Cash Reserves: Keep a buffer for unexpected costs, particularly if your company is project-based or subject to payment delays.
Automate Payments: Set up automatic bill payments for subscriptions or recurring services to avoid late fees.
Secure Your Accounts: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) and use strong passwords to protect your accounts from cyber threats.
Yes! Most banks offer business credit cards that come with perks like cash back, travel points, or rewards. Choose a card with a rewards program suited to your company’s spending habits. Make sure the credit limit and interest rates align with your cash flow.
Global Reach: Look for banks that offer multi-currency accounts and international wire transfer capabilities.
Foreign Exchange (Forex): Understand the bank’s exchange rate and international fees. Some banks offer better rates for businesses that deal frequently with foreign clients.
Payment Processing: If you’re working with global clients, ensure your bank supports international payment processing platforms like PayPal, TransferWise, or Stripe.
Separate Business Taxes: Keep your business finances separate to make tax filings easier and to avoid any penalties.
Track Deductible Expenses: Your bank account will help keep track of business-related expenses like software licenses, employee salaries, and contractor payments, which are often tax-deductible.
Consult a Tax Professional: It’s wise to consult with a tax expert who can guide you on the best practices for your business structure (LLC, S-Corp, etc.) and help you navigate tax obligations.
Direct Deposit: Set up a direct deposit system for your employees to streamline payroll. Most banks offer easy payroll processing.
Outsource Payroll: Some banks provide payroll outsourcing services that handle everything from tax calculations to benefits management.
Payroll Cards: If some employees don’t have bank accounts, you can issue payroll cards that work like debit cards.
Payment Delays: Delays in payments from clients can affect cash flow. Consider using a factoring service or line of credit to bridge gaps.
Managing Foreign Transactions: International payments can come with additional fees and longer processing times. Research banks that specialize in foreign exchange to minimize costs.
Cybersecurity: IT companies are often targeted by hackers. Ensure your bank has strong cybersecurity features and protect your accounts with multi-factor authentication and strong encryption.
Consistent Cash Flow: Keep a healthy balance in your business accounts to show steady cash flow and payment behavior.
Build Relationships: Engage with your bank to build a strong relationship, which can be helpful when seeking loans or credit lines in the future.
Monitor Your Credit: Regularly check your company’s credit score to spot any issues early.
Make Timely Payments: Always make loan and credit card payments on time, and try to keep credit card balances low relative to the limit.
Many banks offer direct integration with popular accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks. This can save time on manual data entry and help automate financial record-keeping. It’s a good idea to set up automatic syncing between your bank accounts and accounting software for real-time tracking.
A business line of credit is a flexible loan that allows your IT company to borrow money up to a certain limit. It’s useful for managing cash flow during slow periods, paying for unexpected expenses, or investing in new projects without the need for a large, lumpsum loan
Many global payment platforms like PayPal are not available in Pakistan. Companies rely on SWIFT transfers, which are slow and costly. Banks also require detailed documentation and apply high foreign exchange conversion charges, making international payments complex and expensive.
Yes, but it’s subject to strict regulations by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). Banks often require detailed justifications for inward and outward remittances, and foreign currency account maintenance is heavily monitored.
Unfortunately, yes. Even though software is a service/export without physical goods, banks often require E-Forms and export documentation, creating unnecessary hurdles for IT companies
Outward remittances are subject to SBP regulations and often require bank approvals. This includes payments for cloud services, licenses, subscriptions, and marketing, which delays essential business functions.
Not officially. Most banks treat freelancers and small software companies like any other business, without customized products or easy onboarding. Bank staff may not fully understand IT business models, which leads to misclassification and delays.
Digital infrastructure in many banks is outdated. APIs for integration, real-time dashboards, and automated remittance reports are lacking. Most processes are still manual and time-consuming.
Software companies often receive payments in USD or other foreign currencies. Due to forced PKR conversion by banks, companies face significant losses when rates are unfavorable or volatile.
No. Banks rarely offer collateral-free or revenue-based financing tailored for software companies. Most loan products are geared towards traditional businesses with physical assets.
Most global payment platforms like PayPal are not available in Pakistan. Freelancers rely on alternatives like Payoneer, Wise, or direct bank transfers, which may come with high fees, delays, or documentation issues from local banks.
Yes, freelancers can open freelancer accounts or sole proprietorship accounts with some banks like HBL, Meezan, or Faysal Bank. However, processes vary, and some banks still require business registration or proof of income.
Yes. To receive consistent foreign income and register with PSEB or benefit from tax incentives, an NTN is highly recommended. It also helps avoid payment blocks and adds credibility to your freelancer profile.
Outward remittances are restricted and regulated. Freelancers must apply through banks with justification (e.g., invoice, registration). Many freelancers use international cards like Payoneer cards or USD accounts (if available) for such payments.
Banks with better support for freelancers include:
Banks may ask for:
PSEB and other IT bodies are working to:
The process to open a business bank account in Pakistan can be bureaucratic and timeconsuming, requiring a lot of documentation, including proof of business registration, tax documents, and more.
Many banks in Pakistan still have outdated systems, and while digital banking is improving, it’s not as seamless or user-friendly as in other countries, especially for businesses dealing with large volumes of online transactions.
Pakistan’s banking sector is often limited in its ability to facilitate smooth international transactions, making it difficult for IT companies that deal with global clients to receive or send payments abroad easily.
Banks in Pakistan may charge high transaction fees for both domestic and international transfers, which can add up over time, especially for IT companies with global dealings.
It’s difficult for businesses in Pakistan to open foreign currency accounts to manage international payments. This forces many IT companies to convert foreign currency payments into Pakistani Rupees, which can be costly.
The Pakistani Rupee’s volatility can create financial uncertainty, particularly for IT companies with foreign clients. This may result in a fluctuating exchange rate and unexpected losses when converting payments into PKR.
The government has implemented strict controls on foreign exchange, which make it challenging for IT businesses to repatriate earnings from international contracts or projects.
Clients, especially government or large organizations, can be slow in processing payments, causing cash flow issues for IT companies that are dependent on timely funds.
There is limited access to business loans or lines of credit for startups in Pakistan, especially in the tech sector. Banks are often hesitant to provide financing to new businesses without significant collateral.
Venture capital funding in Pakistan is not as readily available as it is in more developed markets. This can make it harder for IT companies to scale up quickly and efficiently.
Pakistani banks may not easily integrate with international payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, or other modern payment systems that IT companies use for international transactions.
The regulatory environment around banking and fintech is constantly changing, creating confusion for IT businesses trying to stay compliant. There’s often a lack of clear guidance from the authorities.
Many Pakistani banks do not offer automated reconciliation with accounting software, making it harder for IT companies to efficiently track their finances and maintain accurate records.
Banks are generally slow to offer tailored banking solutions for IT businesses in specific sectors like e-commerce or Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), which require recurring billing systems and scalable payment solutions.
The availability of specialized fintech solutions (like cloud accounting or invoicing tools) is still in its infancy in Pakistan, making financial management more challenging for IT companies.
Pakistan’s banking infrastructure, especially in rural areas, can be inconsistent. This can cause challenges for IT businesses that need reliable access to banking services across the country.
Pakistan’s banking sector faces ongoing cybersecurity issues, which can be a concern for IT companies dealing with sensitive financial and client data.
Both domestic and international payments can take a long time to process. This affects the cash flow of IT companies that rely on quick settlements to meet their obligations.
Many banks don’t offer customized services for startups, leaving IT companies to deal with generalized banking options that don’t cater to their specific needs (e.g., small loan amounts, limited transaction limits).
Pakistan’s taxation system can be complex, and IT companies often struggle with understanding tax requirements. Banks sometimes do not provide sufficient support to businesses in terms of reporting or integrating tax filing with bank statements.
Banks sometimes lack clear policies or guidelines for new businesses. This can lead to confusion regarding loan applications, transaction types, and necessary documentation.
Banks often don’t offer credit cards with international usage capability for businesses. IT companies that need to make payments to international service providers may face challenges without a viable credit solution.
Setting up merchant accounts for processing credit card payments can be a long and bureaucratic process, and many Pakistani banks are not as flexible with these accounts compared to international banks.
Pakistan’s banking regulations can make it difficult for IT companies to invest abroad or collaborate with international partners due to currency restrictions and high transaction fees.
When applying for business loans or credit lines, IT companies are often asked to provide complex documentation, including personal guarantees, which can be burdensome and deter many from pursuing financing.
| Sr. # | Sectors | Services | Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Call Centers | Receipts of accounts of services provided by Call Centers | 9102 |
| 2. | Hardware Consultancy Services | Receipts on account of computer hardware consultancy services provided to non-residents. | 9181 |
| 3. | Software Consultancy Services | Receipt on account of database services provided to non-residents, such as development, storage, and online time series. Also included are the data processing services provided to nonresidents. | 9182 |
| 4. | Maintenance & Repairs of Computers | Receipts on account of maintenance and repairs of computers and peripheral equipment abroad to non-residents. | 9183 |
| 5. | Export of Computer Software | Receipts on account of the export of computer software, including design, development, and programming of a customized system. | 9184 |
| 6. | Other Computer Services | Receipts on account of other computer services not specified elsewhere. | 9185 |
| 7. | Freelance in computer and information services | Remittances received by resident individuals/households from reputed overseas IT firms and online platforms on account of freelance of computer and information systems services | 9186 |
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