How to register for NTN in Pakistan

Day 3: How to register for NTN in Pakistan

Importance of NTN and How to Register for It

If you want to file your income tax return, run a registered business, or appear on Pakistan’s Active Taxpayers List (ATL), the first step is obtaining your NTN—National Tax Number. Whether you’re a salaried person, a freelancer, or a business owner, this unique tax identity is a must-have.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know about NTN registration in Pakistan.

What is NTN (National Tax Number)?

NTN is a unique identifier the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) issued to individuals and entities for tax purposes. Think of it as your tax identity number, used for all dealings with the tax system.

You need an NTN to:

File income tax returns
Register a business
Appear in the Active Taxpayers List (ATL)
Comply with legal tax regulations
Buy/sell property in your own name

Who Needs an NTN?

Salaried persons earning above the taxable limit
Freelancers and consultants receiving payments from clients
Small business owners and shopkeepers
Companies and associations
Non-resident Pakistanis (NRPs) with Pakistan-based income
Anyone who wants to file a tax return or receive tax benefits

Benefits of Having an NTN in Pakistan

✅ Enables tax return filing
✅ Adds you to the ATL for reduced tax deductions
✅ Required for business registration
✅ Helpful for banking, investments, and government tenders
✅ Enhances financial and legal credibility

How to Register for NTN (National Tax Number) in Pakistan

NTN registration is now completely online and free via the FBR IRIS Portal.

🛠 Step-by-Step Guide to NTN Registration (For Individuals):

Visit the FBR IRIS Portal:
Go to https://iris.fbr.gov.pk
Click on “Registration for Unregistered Person”
Fill in the form with your CNIC, mobile number, and email address.
Receive Verification PINs
Two PINs will be sent—one on your mobile number and one on your email. Enter both to verify.
Log in to IRIS Portal
Once verified, you’ll receive a username (your CNIC) and password. Use these to log in.
Complete “Form 181: Registration Form”
Fill in your personal, residential, and professional details.
Attach Required Documents
- Scanned copy of CNIC
- Recent electricity bill (home or office)
- Business letterhead (for proprietors)
- Rental agreement (if office is rented)
Submit for Approval
FBR will process your application and issue your NTN Certificate, usually within 24–48 hours.

For Business or Company NTN Registration

The process is similar, but you’ll need additional documents:

CNIC of owner/directors
Proof of business premises
Company incorporation documents
Business letterhead and stamp

📄 How to Verify Your NTN

Once approved:

Visit https://e.fbr.gov.pk/esbn/Verification
Select “NTN Inquiry”
Enter your CNIC or NTN number to view your details

📝 Things to Keep in Mind

NTN is linked with your CNIC number
One person = one NTN
File tax returns every year to stay active in ATL
Don’t share your NTN/IRIS login credentials carelessly

✅ Summary

Registering for an NTN is the first step in becoming a responsible taxpayer in Pakistan. It opens the door to legal compliance, financial empowerment, and national contribution. Whether you’re a professional or a business owner, getting your NTN is a must.

In Day 4, we’ll guide you through the process of logging into the IRIS portal and setting up your tax profile.