Introduction
In today’s digital era, Pakistan’s Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has transformed tax management with its modern platform — eFBR. This online portal makes it easier for individuals, salaried employees, and businesses to file returns, track payments, and stay compliant with tax regulations.
Whether you’re a new filer or a registered taxpayer, eFBR brings convenience, speed, and transparency to Pakistan’s taxation process.
What Is eFBR?
eFBR stands for Electronic Federal Board of Revenue. It’s the official online system launched by the FBR to handle:
- Income tax filing
- Sales tax registration
- Taxpayer verification
- Refund claims
- Real-time tax payment tracking
This platform eliminates paperwork and reduces manual errors by allowing all tax-related services to be done digitally.
The Purpose Behind eFBR
The main aim of eFBR is to:
- Simplify the tax filing process
- Increase transparency and accountability
- Reduce corruption and delays in manual procedures
- Make Pakistan’s economy more documented and compliant with international standards
By shifting to digital systems, the government ensures that taxpayers can manage their obligations without needing intermediaries or visiting FBR offices physically.
How to Register on eFBR (Step-by-Step Guide)
Here’s a simple guide to register yourself or your business on the eFBR portal:
- Visit: https://iris.fbr.gov.pk
- Click on “Registration for Unregistered Person”
- Enter your CNIC/NICOP (for individuals) or NTN (for businesses)
- Provide a valid email address and mobile number
- Set your password and verify the code sent to your mobile/email
- Log in to your eFBR account and complete your profile with personal, business, and bank details
Once completed, you’ll get access to IRIS — FBR’s digital tax filing interface.
Key Features of eFBR
eFBR offers a variety of digital services that make tax management seamless:
- Online Return Filing: Submit income and sales tax returns easily
- e-Verification: Confirm taxpayer details through CNIC or NTN
- Online Payment System: Pay taxes directly via banking channels
- Status Tracking: Monitor filing status, refund progress, and compliance history
- SMS & Email Alerts: Receive instant updates about filing deadlines and system notifications
- Search Tools: Verify companies, invoices, and registered taxpayers in real-time
Why eFBR Matters for Every Pakistani
Pakistan’s tax base is expanding, and the government is taking strict actions against non-filers. Using eFBR ensures you:
- Avoid penalties and legal action
- Get access to financial services (loans, credit cards, etc.)
- Build a verified financial profile
- Contribute to the country’s economic growth
In 2025, FBR has enhanced automation, AI-based fraud detection, and faster refund systems within the eFBR platform — making it one of the most efficient systems in South Asia.
eFBR Mobile App — Tax on the Go
The eFBR mobile app, available on both Android and iOS, brings tax management to your fingertips.
Key features include:
- Return filing via mobile
- Checking NTN status
- Payment of challans
- Access to tax calculators
- Real-time tracking of refund applications
This mobile version is especially useful for freelancers, small business owners, and overseas Pakistanis.
Common Issues Faced by eFBR Users
While the platform has improved significantly, users sometimes experience:
- Delays in OTP verification
- Slow loading times during peak filing dates
- Errors in pre-filled data from NADRA or SECP
- Payment mismatches between bank and FBR records
Tip: Always clear your cache, use updated browsers, and download official challan receipts from your eFBR dashboard.
How eFBR Supports Businesses
For companies and registered organizations, eFBR offers complete automation:
- Sales Tax Management — File monthly returns digitally
- Withholding Statements — Submit salary and vendor tax deductions online
- Audit Trail — Maintain records for transparency and FBR inspections
- Import/Export Data — Integrated with Customs and WeBOC systems
These features make it a one-stop solution for corporate compliance in Pakistan.
Latest Updates in eFBR 2025
As of October 2025, the FBR has launched:
- Integration with NADRA for real-time income verification
- AI-powered audit selection system
- New dashboard for freelancers and digital service providers
- Simplified e-filing for salaried individuals
These updates make it even easier for Pakistanis to stay compliant without hiring tax consultants.
Benefits of Using eFBR
- 100% Online Process — No paper, no queues
- Secure Data Handling — Advanced encryption for privacy
- Quick Processing — Save time with digital automation
- Real-Time Support — Chatbots and email assistance
- Global Access — File taxes from anywhere in the world
Frequently Asked Question
What is Rule 44 of the FBR?
Rule 44 of the Income Tax Rules, 2002 (FBR Pakistan) deals with maintenance of accounts and record-keeping by taxpayers.
According to this rule, every person liable to pay income tax must maintain proper books of accounts, including:
- Sales and purchase records
- Vouchers, receipts, and invoices
- Bank statements and ledgers
These records must be preserved for at least six years after the end of the tax year.
The purpose of Rule 44 is to ensure transparency, audit readiness, and compliance with tax laws under the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
How to Register as a Freelancer in FBR?
Freelancers in Pakistan can register easily with eFBR to become tax-compliant.
Here’s the step-by-step guide:
- Go to (the official eFBR portal).
- Click on “Registration for Unregistered Person.”
- Enter your CNIC, mobile number, and email address.
- Verify the OTP sent to your phone and email.
- Log in to IRIS and fill out your personal profile.
- Under Business Type, select “Freelancer / Service Provider.”
- Submit the form and get your National Tax Number (NTN) instantly.
Once registered, freelancers can file annual returns, declare income from online platforms (like Upwork or Fiverr), and stay legally compliant.
Tip: Keep records of all foreign remittances and payment receipts for accurate tax filing.
Is e-Invoicing Mandatory in Pakistan?
Yes, e-Invoicing is becoming mandatory in Pakistan — especially for registered businesses and large enterprises.
Under the FBR’s new Point of Sale (POS) and e-Invoice integration system, companies must issue digital invoices that are automatically reported to FBR’s central system.
This rule currently applies to:
- Tier-1 retailers
- Manufacturing units
- Large-scale suppliers
- Registered sales tax entities
By 2026, e-invoicing is expected to become compulsory for all registered businesses in Pakistan.
The aim is to reduce tax evasion, enhance transparency, and digitize business transactions nationwide.
Who Is the Highest Post in the FBR?
The highest post in the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is the Chairman FBR.
This official is appointed by the Government of Pakistan and oversees all tax-related departments, including:
- Inland Revenue Service (IRS)
- Pakistan Customs
- FBR Field Offices
The Chairman FBR is responsible for:
- Implementing national tax policies
- Supervising audits and enforcement
- Managing digital reforms like eFBR and POS systems
- Ensuring coordination with the Ministry of Finance
As of 2025, the Chairman FBR is one of the most senior and influential positions in Pakistan’s financial and governance system.
Conclusion
The eFBR system is a major leap toward a digital, transparent, and efficient tax system in Pakistan.
It empowers citizens to take control of their finances, helps businesses stay compliant, and supports the government’s vision of a stronger, more documented economy.
In 2025, embracing eFBR isn’t just about paying taxes — it’s about building a smarter, accountable Pakistan.