The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has proposed a significant amendment to the Income Tax Rules 2002, making electronic filing mandatory for all individual taxpayers in Pakistan.
According to the official notification, taxpayers will now have to submit their income tax returns and withholding statements online. The FBR stated that this initiative is part of its broader plan to modernize and digitize the country’s tax administration system.
Officials explained that the proposed amendment aims to enhance digital transparency, improve efficiency, and ensure better record management within the tax system. The move is also expected to reduce paperwork, minimize human errors, and curb opportunities for tax manipulation.
Public feedback invited
As part of the process, the FBR has invited feedback, suggestions, and objections from stakeholders and the public within seven days of the notification’s release. Once the feedback period concludes, the amendment will be reviewed, finalized, and officially incorporated into the tax framework.
Once implemented, the new rule will apply to all individual taxpayers who are legally required to file annual income tax returns and withholding statements.
Promoting digital transformation
Officials emphasized that the shift to e-filing is a key step toward promoting digital transformation and building trust between taxpayers and authorities. They added that the new system will simplify tax procedures, reduce compliance costs, and improve accountability.
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The FBR continues to push for automation and digital reforms in tax collection, aiming to make Pakistan’s taxation process more transparent, efficient, and user-friendly.
