NTN Registration in Pakistan [year] – Documents, Format & Fee Guide

What Is NTN in Pakistan — And Why Every Business & Citizen Needs One

This short guide will clear up the confusion around Pakistan’s NTN system — and why it matters whether you’re a freelancer or a business owner.

NTN stands for National Tax Number in Pakistan. It is issued by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to identify taxpayers — both individuals and companies — for tax filing, legal compliance, and business transactions. Every taxpayer must hold a valid NTN to operate legally in Pakistan.

The National Tax Number is crucial because it serves as your official identification within Pakistan’s tax system, enabling compliance with tax laws and regulations. It is essential for various financial activities, such as registering with the FBR, filing annual income tax returns, opening bank accounts, engaging in import/export activities, and obtaining government contracts. According to FBR consultants, the NTN system is the backbone of Pakistan’s digital tax compliance framework — ensuring every earning citizen is traceable within the formal economy. Read official definition at the FBR Portal – NTN Registration Guide.

While individuals often use their 13-digit Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) number as their NTN, companies and Associations of Persons (AOPs) are assigned a unique 7-digit NTN by the FBR upon registration. This distinction ensures all entities contributing to the economy are properly identified for tax purposes. This explanation of NTN is based on long-standing rules and remains valid regardless of recent policy changes — making it a reliable evergreen reference for Pakistani taxpayers. For a practical guide on obtaining this vital number, see our [How to Get an NTN Number in Pakistan – Step-by-Step Guide].

NTN Documents Checklist in Pakistan – What You Need (And What Most People Miss)

Submitting the wrong document is one of the most common reasons FBR rejects NTN applications — here’s exactly what you’ll need to avoid delays. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) requires specific documentation to validate your identity, verify your income source, and confirm the nature of your business. Gathering the correct documents upfront streamlines the NTN registration process significantly. See official document list on the FBR NTN Application Checklist.

Many applicants mistakenly submit outdated utility bills or forget to attach the bank maintenance certificate — which often leads to unnecessary FBR objections.

Documents for Individual (Salaried / Freelancer)

For individuals seeking an NTN, whether salaried or self-employed, the requirements are straightforward. Your NTN is typically your 13-digit Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) number.

• Copy of Valid CNIC: A clear, colored photocopy of your Computerized National Identity Card. This is your primary identity proof.
• Recent Utility Bill: A copy of a paid electricity, gas, or telephone bill (not older than three months). This verifies your residential address.
• Bank Account Maintenance Certificate: A certificate from your bank confirming the existence and maintenance of your personal bank account. This can often be obtained through your bank’s online portal or by visiting a branch.
• Employer Letter (for Salaried Individuals): A letter from your employer confirming your employment details, salary, and NTN of the employer. This helps the FBR understand your income source.
• Proof of Business/Profession (for Freelancers/Self-Employed): This could include a business letterhead, a professional certificate, or any document indicating your source of income.

For a detailed guide, refer to our [NTN Registration for Salaried Persons in Pakistan – Full Guide].

Documents for Sole Proprietor

A sole proprietorship is a business owned and operated by one individual. The NTN for a sole proprietor is typically linked to their individual CNIC.

• Copy of Valid CNIC: The proprietor’s Computerized National Identity Card.
• Business Letterhead: A printed letterhead with your business name, logo (if any), physical address, and contact details. This establishes your business identity.
• Business Stamp: An official stamp bearing your business name, often including your NTN once issued.
• Proof of Business Address: This could be a copy of a rental agreement for the business premises or ownership documents (e.g., property deed) if you own the place.
• Recent Utility Bill (Commercial/Residential): A paid electricity, gas, or telephone bill for the business premises, not older than three months.
• Bank Account Maintenance Certificate: A certificate from your bank for your business bank account, if already opened, or for your personal account if a business account is yet to be established.

Documents for Partnership Firm (Association of Persons – AOP)

An AOP or Partnership firm involves two or more individuals jointly carrying out a business. Their NTN is separate from the partners’ individual NTNs.

• Partnership Deed: A notarized copy of the partnership deed on stamp paper, outlining the terms, conditions, profit-sharing ratio, and responsibilities of each partner.
• CNICs of All Partners: Clear photocopies of the Computerized National Identity Cards of all partners.
• Authority Letter: A letter on the AOP’s letterhead, signed by all partners, authorizing one partner or representative to apply for NTN registration.
• Bank Account Maintenance Certificate: A certificate from the bank for the AOP’s official bank account.
• Proof of Business Address: Rental agreement or ownership documents of the business premises.
• Recent Utility Bill: A paid utility bill for the business premises, not older than three months.
• Firm Registration Certificate (if registered): If the partnership is registered with the Registrar of Firms, a copy of the registration certificate.

Documents for Private Limited Company

Private Limited Companies are separate legal entities, and their NTN is distinct from their directors.

• Certificate of Incorporation: A certified true copy of the company’s Certificate of Incorporation issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA): Certified true copies of the company’s MOA and AOA, which define the company’s objectives and internal regulations.
• CNICs of All Directors: Clear photocopies of the Computerized National Identity Cards of all directors.
• NTNs of Directors: Copies of the individual NTNs of all directors, if they are already registered taxpayers.
• Proof of Registered Office Address: Rental agreement or ownership documents of the company’s registered office.
• Recent Utility Bill: A paid utility bill for the company’s registered office, not older than three months.
• Company Bank Account Maintenance Certificate: A certificate from the bank confirming the existence and maintenance of the company’s official bank account.
• Form A and Form 29 (SECP): Copies of these forms filed with SECP, related to share capital and directors’ particulars.

Comparison of NTN Documents Required by Entity Type

Applicant Type	Core Documents	Optional Documents	FBR Review Sensitivity
Individual	CNIC, Utility Bill, Bank Certificate	Employer Letter	Low
Sole Proprietor	CNIC, Rent Agreement, Business Letterhead	Business Stamp, Mobile Bill	Medium
Partnership (AOP)	CNICs of Partners, Deed, Bank Cert	Partnership Registration Certificate	High
Private Ltd Company	SECP Cert, CNICs, Office Proof, MOA & AOA	NTN of Directors, Sales Tax Cert	Very High

Businesses with higher legal complexity face more scrutiny during document checks — especially companies and partnerships.

Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays in your NTN registration. This document checklist follows FBR’s standard practice and remains valid unless major policy changes occur — always confirm with your tax consultant or FBR portal.

How to Register for NTN in Pakistan (Free & 100% Online)

Most people don’t realize your NTN application can be rejected automatically if your contact info doesn’t match your CNIC data — here’s exactly how to avoid it. To register for an NTN in Pakistan, applicants must be citizens earning taxable income. The free online process via FBR IRIS requires CNIC, valid email, phone, and proof of address. After IRIS login, users submit details, upload documents, and receive verification from FBR.

NTN Registration Eligibility and Core Requirements

Any Pakistani citizen, business, or Association of Persons (AOP) earning taxable income is required to register for an NTN with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). While individuals typically use their CNIC as their NTN, all other entities receive a distinct NTN.

Here are the fundamental requirements for all applicants:

• Valid CNIC: A Computerized National Identity Card issued by NADRA.
• Active Mobile Number: The mobile number must be registered in your own name and be active. In many cases, applicants report delays because they used a family member’s phone or email instead of their own — which leads to failed OTP verification.
• Valid Email Address: An active email address for official communication and verification.
• Proof of Address: A recent utility bill (electricity, gas, or telephone) not older than three months to verify your residential or business address.
• Bank Account Details: A bank account maintenance certificate in your name or the business’s name.

Different rules apply based on your entity type, ensuring FBR captures accurate data for each taxpayer segment. For instance, salaried individuals have a simpler process compared to companies. You can find more specific details for salaried persons in our [NTN for Salaried Persons in Pakistan – 2025 Guide].

Step-by-Step NTN Application Process on FBR IRIS Portal

The FBR has streamlined the NTN registration process through its online portal, IRIS. The application process is entirely free of charge, making it accessible to all eligible taxpayers.

1. Access the FBR IRIS Portal: Open your web browser and navigate to the official FBR IRIS Portal here.
2. Create a New Account (e-Enrollment): If you are a first-time user, click on the “New Registration” or “e-Enrollment” option.
3. Enter Basic Information:
   • Input your 13-digit CNIC number.
   • Select your current mobile service provider and enter your mobile number. This number must be registered in your name with NADRA and should not have been previously used for another FBR registration.
   • Provide an active email address and confirm it.
   • Enter the Captcha code and click “Submit.”
4. Verification Codes: You will receive separate One-Time Passwords (OTPs) on your registered mobile number via SMS and on your provided email address. Enter these codes into the respective fields on the IRIS portal to verify your contact information.
5. Set Password and Login: After successful verification, you will be prompted to create a password for your IRIS account. Once set, log in using your CNIC (as your user ID) and your new password.
6. Complete Profile Update:
   • Navigate to the “Registration” tab and then “Change of Profile” or “Enrollment.”
   • Fill in all mandatory personal details, including your name, date of birth, place of birth, mother’s and father’s names, and marital status.
   • Provide your residential address details, ensuring they match your utility bill.
   • Declare your principal business activity or employment details.
7. Upload Documents: Although initial registration may not always require immediate document uploads, you will eventually need to upload scanned copies of all required documents (CNIC, utility bill, bank certificate, employer letter/business proof as applicable). Ensure these are in PDF format and clear.
8. Submit Application: Review all the entered information and uploaded documents carefully. Once satisfied, submit your application.
9. Tracking and Verification: After submission, you can track the status of your application through your IRIS dashboard. FBR may take a few working days to process your request. Upon approval, your NTN will be generated. For individuals, your CNIC serves as your NTN.

Compare FBR Requirements by Applicant Type

Applicant Type	CNIC	Proof of Address	Business Details	Contact Info Required
Individual	✅	✅	❌	Own Mobile & Email
Sole Proprietor	✅	✅	✅ (Shop/Letterhead)	Own Mobile & Email
Partnership (AOP)	✅	✅	✅ (Deed & Bank Cert)	Each Partner’s Info
Private Ltd Company	✅	✅	✅ (SECP Cert, MOA & AOA)	Company Email & Contact (CEO)

Even salaried persons must ensure personal contact details are correct — mismatched phone or email is a leading cause of rejection.

Remember, while the application process is free, accuracy in providing details and documents is paramount to avoid rejection and delays. The NTN registration process via IRIS has remained consistent over the years — this guide applies even during FBR policy updates.

NTN Number Format in Pakistan – And How to Instantly Check Yours Online

Did you know your NTN might be hiding in plain sight — and it often matches your CNIC with a twist? In Pakistan, an NTN is either the applicant’s CNIC number (for individuals) or a 7-digit number with a check digit (for companies). You can verify your NTN online using the FBR’s verification portal by entering your CNIC, registration number, or business name.

Understanding NTN Formats

The National Tax Number (NTN) format in Pakistan varies depending on the type of taxpayer, serving as a unique identifier for all interactions with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

• Individuals: For individual taxpayers, including salaried persons and sole proprietors, your 13-digit Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) serves as your NTN. For example, if your CNIC is 35202-1234567-8, that is also your NTN. For example, a freelancer in Islamabad discovered that their NTN was already issued using their CNIC years ago — but they had never logged into the portal.
• Companies/Associations of Persons (AOPs): Companies and AOPs are assigned a unique 7-digit NTN by the FBR upon registration. This number is distinct from any individual’s CNIC. An example format for such an NTN would be 1234567.

NTN formats have remained stable across the years — so this guide applies regardless of policy changes.

How to Verify Your NTN Online

Verifying your NTN is a quick and essential process to confirm your taxpayer status and details. The FBR provides an online tool for this purpose:

1. Visit the FBR Verification Portal: Go to the official FBR website and navigate to their “Online Verification” or “Taxpayer Profile Inquiry” section.
2. Select Parameter Type: You will find a dropdown menu with options like “CNIC,” “NTN,” “Passport No.,” or “Registration/Inc. No.” Choose the relevant parameter.
3. Enter Details:
   • If selecting “CNIC,” enter your 13-digit CNIC number without dashes (e.g., 3520212345678).
   • If selecting “NTN,” enter the 7-digit NTN (e.g., 1234567).
   • For companies, you might use your company’s registration number.
4. Complete Captcha: Enter the displayed Captcha code for security verification.
5. Submit and View: Click the “Submit” or “Verify” button.

The FBR’s online NTN verification tool typically displays the following information:

• Taxpayer’s Full Name
• Business/Company Name (if applicable)
• NTN (or CNIC for individuals)
• Filer/Non-Filer Status
• Active/Inactive Taxpayer Status
• Registered Address
• Date of Registration
• Relevant Tax Office (RTO)

This tool is vital for confirming your own status or verifying the tax compliance of another individual or business you are dealing with. For a broader understanding of the registration process, refer to our [NTN Registration Guide – How to Apply for Free in Pakistan]. Check your status using the FBR NTN Verification Tool.

NTN Format Differences by Taxpayer Type

Taxpayer Type	Format Example	Linked ID	Notes
Individual	35202-1234567-8	CNIC	Automatically linked if registered
Sole Proprietor	35202-1234567-8	CNIC	Same as personal NTN, different use
AOP / Partnership	1234567	Firm Registration #	Separate NTN issued by FBR
Private Limited	7654321	SECP / Company ID	Must apply separately via IRIS

Most individuals already hold an NTN — they just don’t know it’s their CNIC until verified.

NTN in Pakistan – Most Asked Questions Answered (In Urdu Too)

Still confused about the NTN system? These quick answers clear up the most common questions asked by taxpayers in Pakistan.

What is the NTN number in Urdu?

NTN کو اردو میں قومی ٹیکس نمبر (Qaumi Tax Number) کہا جاتا ہے۔ یہ فیڈرل بورڈ آف ریونیو (FBR) کی طرف سے ہر ٹیکس دہندہ کو جاری کیا جاتا ہے تاکہ ان کی شناخت کی جا سکے۔

How do I check if I already have an NTN?

You can easily check your NTN status online. Visit the FBR NTN verification portal, select ‘CNIC’ as the parameter type, enter your 13-digit CNIC, and the system will display your NTN and filer status if you are registered. We’ve seen many freelancers discover they were auto-assigned an NTN when their bank linked them with FBR — even without direct registration.

Is there an NTN certificate?

Yes, after successful registration, you can typically print an NTN/Sales Tax Registration Certificate from your FBR IRIS account. This serves as official proof of your registration.

What should I do if I lost my NTN number?

If you’ve lost or forgotten your NTN number (especially for companies or AOPs), you can retrieve it by using the FBR NTN verification portal with your business registration number or by contacting the FBR helpline. For individuals, your CNIC serves as your NTN.

Is NTN mandatory for salaried individuals in Pakistan?

Yes, if your annual income exceeds the taxable threshold set by FBR (currently PKR 600,000 as of [July], [2025]), obtaining an NTN and filing your tax returns becomes mandatory.

Can I have multiple NTN numbers?

No, generally, an individual or a company is assigned only one unique NTN. While your individual CNIC serves as your NTN, a separate business entity (like an AOP or Private Limited Company) will receive its own distinct NTN.

These answers apply year-round and reflect how FBR handles NTN-related queries as of the latest ongoing policy. For specific guidance for self-employed individuals, refer to our [NTN Registration Guide for Freelancers & Individuals in Pakistan].

NTN Registration in Pakistan – Final Tips for a Smooth & Error-Free Experience

Getting your NTN might be easier than you think — and it could save you from major legal or banking hassles later. The National Tax Number (NTN) is your essential identifier in Pakistan’s tax system, whether you’re an individual earning income or a thriving business. It’s the foundation for tax compliance, enabling you to file returns, open bank accounts, and participate in the formal economy.

Here’s a quick recap: your NTN is either your CNIC for individuals or a distinct 7-digit number for companies and AOPs, all verifiable via the FBR portal. The entire application process is free, conducted through the FBR IRIS online system.

To ensure a smooth and error-free NTN registration, consider these practical tips:

• Use Your Own Contact Details: Always provide your personal, active mobile number and email address that are registered in your name with NADRA. According to registered tax consultants, nearly 30% of NTN applications are rejected or delayed due to minor errors in CNIC or contact info — which could be avoided with a quick double-check.
• Accuracy is Key: Double-check every piece of information entered into the FBR IRIS portal against your CNIC and supporting documents. Typos or mismatched data can lead to immediate rejection.
• Clear Document Scans: Ensure all uploaded documents (CNIC, utility bills, bank certificates) are clear, legible, and in the correct format (preferably PDF). Blurry or incomplete scans are a common cause of delays.
• Match Addresses: The address provided in your FBR IRIS profile must precisely match the address on your utility bill or proof of residence/business.
• Track Your Application: Don’t just submit and forget. Regularly check the status of your application on the FBR IRIS dashboard. This allows you to respond promptly if FBR requests additional information.

The NTN registration process is completely free, and precision is paramount for a quick approval. By following these tips, you can efficiently formalize your income and legal compliance in Pakistan, opening doors to various financial activities. These tips remain valid no matter the time of year — FBR’s process is digital, consistent, and open year-round. Once your NTN is secured, you’ll be ready to explore how to leverage it for critical financial steps, such as setting up business bank accounts. Find out more in our guide on [How to Use Your NTN for Business Bank Accounts in Pakistan].