How to Get an NTN from FBR (Individuals & Businesses)
Quick answer
To get an NTN, register on the FBR IRIS portal with your CNIC (for individuals) or incorporation documents (for companies), complete the Form 181 registration with your business and bank details, and submit. The NTN is issued electronically and is required to file returns, open business accounts, and appear on the Active Taxpayer List (ATL).
| NTN registration cost | Free (FBR IRIS) |
|---|---|
| Tax-free income (salaried) | PKR 600,000 / year |
| Filer benefit | Lower withholding tax rates |
Sources · reviewed by BuzIntel editorial
Step by step
- Create an IRIS account. Go to the FBR IRIS portal and register using your CNIC, a valid mobile number registered in your name, and an email. You'll receive login credentials by SMS and email.
- Complete Form 181 (registration). Log in and fill the registration form with your personal/business details, principal activity, business address, and bank account information.
- Add a business (for sole proprietors). Declare your business name and address under the 'Business' tab. For companies, the NTN flows from the SECP incorporation data.
- Submit and verify. Submit the form. Your NTN (which for individuals is your CNIC number) becomes active. Verify status via the FBR online verification or the Tax Asaan app.
- Get on the ATL. File your annual income-tax return to appear on the Active Taxpayer List. Being an 'active' filer lowers withholding-tax rates on many transactions.
Frequently asked questions
+Is the NTN the same as the CNIC for individuals?
Yes — for individuals the 13-digit CNIC functions as the NTN. Companies and AOPs get a separate 7-digit NTN.
+Why does being a filer matter?
Filers on the ATL pay substantially lower withholding tax on banking, vehicles, property, and many other transactions than non-filers.
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