Registering your company with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is essential for tax compliance in Pakistan. While SECP handles legal company incorporation, FBR handles tax registration and ensures every business pays income and sales tax as applicable. Without FBR registration, a company cannot obtain its NTN (National Tax Number), file tax returns, or conduct certain transactions legally.
Why FBR Registration is Important for Companies
FBR registration confirms that your company is a taxpayer under Pakistan’s income tax laws. It allows your business to:
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File tax returns and become part of the Active Taxpayers List (ATL)
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Open a business bank account
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Issue legal tax invoices
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Avoid higher withholding tax rates
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Participate in government tenders and contracts
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Apply for business loans or grants
Who Must Register with FBR
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All registered companies under SECP (Pvt Ltd, SMC, Public Ltd)
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Partnerships (AOPs) and Sole Proprietors
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Foreign companies operating in Pakistan
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Freelancers or service providers earning taxable income
How to Register a Company with FBR
Step 1: SECP Incorporation
Before registering with FBR, your company must be incorporated with SECP and receive a Certificate of Incorporation.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
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Company’s SECP registration number
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Memorandum and Articles of Association
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Registered office address
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CNICs of directors and CEO
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Email, mobile number, and business nature
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Bank account details
Step 3: Create an Account on FBR’s IRIS Portal
Go to the FBR IRIS portal and register your company profile using the SECP incorporation number and CNIC of the principal officer.
Step 4: Submit NTN Application
Fill out the application form for NTN registration, providing all business and personal details of directors. Attach scanned documents including:
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Certificate of Incorporation
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Company letterhead
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Utility bill of office address
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Bank maintenance certificate
Step 5: Verification and Approval
FBR verifies your application, sometimes requiring in-person or online verification. Once approved, your company receives its NTN certificate via IRIS.
Step 6: Start Filing Tax Returns
Your company can now file monthly sales tax returns (if applicable) and annual income tax returns. This also activates your status as a filer.
Optional Step: Register for Sales Tax (if applicable)
Companies dealing in manufacturing, imports, exports, or retail may also need to register for General Sales Tax (GST). This is done via the same IRIS portal.
Benefits of FBR Company Registration
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Becomes eligible to apply for government and corporate contracts
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Receives legal recognition as a taxpayer
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Avoids being treated as a non-filer (which leads to higher taxes)
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Allows access to the Active Taxpayer List
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Facilitates bank loan applications and foreign transactions
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Enhances company credibility with clients and suppliers
FBR Registration vs SECP Registration
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SECP registration gives you legal identity
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FBR registration gives you tax identity
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Both are required for a company to operate fully and legally in Pakistan
What is NTN for a Company
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NTN (National Tax Number) is the unique tax identity issued to each company by FBR
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It is used to file taxes, receive withholding tax exemptions, and confirm filer status
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For companies, the NTN is a 7-digit number different from the director’s CNIC
Conclusion
Registering your company with FBR is a legal obligation and a smart business move. It not only ensures tax compliance but opens the door to official banking, contracts, and investment opportunities. Once you have your SECP incorporation, you must immediately register your company on the FBR IRIS portal to obtain your NTN and start fulfilling your tax obligations. Staying compliant keeps your company active, credible, and financially ready to grow.
