How to Become a Filer in Pakistan Online The Complete Guide for 2025
Shahzad Khalid, Senior Real Estate Consultants
Employee, freelancer, businessman, or real estate investor, understanding how to become a filer in Pakistan online can save you from financial losses, legal complications, and social embarrassment.
This detailed guide will walk you through every step, from understanding what a non-filer means, how to check if you are a filer or non filer, and how to register yourself as a tax filer in Pakistan without any confusion.
And if you’re planning to invest in real estate projects like Union Town Lahore, Union Green Phase 2, or Union Living, becoming a filer is more important than ever.
What Is a Filer in Pakistan?
Let’s start by understanding what exactly being a filer means.
A filer is someone who has submitted their annual income tax return to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and appears on the Active Taxpayers List (ATL). This list is publicly available and updated regularly by FBR.
Benefits of Being a Filer
- Lower tax rates on property transactions, banking transactions, and vehicle registration.
- Freedom to purchase or transfer property above certain values.
- Avoidance of legal penalties or fines from the tax department.
- Enhanced financial credibility for applying for loans, credit cards, or visas.
Eligibility to participate in government contracts, tenders, and business opportunities.
Who Are Non-Filers in Pakistan?
Now the big question who are non filers?
A non-filer is someone who hasn’t submitted their tax return or isn’t included in the ATL. Many people think that not filing taxes means saving money, but in reality, non filer tax in Pakistan is often double or more compared to filers.
Non Filer Meaning and Risks
- You’re taxed more heavily on everything—from buying cars to withdrawing money.
- Non-filers cannot purchase property above Rs. 5 million.
- You may be issued notices or even fined for non-compliance.
- Your name gets flagged in the system, which affects credit and banking relations.
If you’re still asking, what is non filer?, the answer is simple: it’s a red flag in your financial reputation.
Difference Between Filer and Non Filer in Pakistan
Understanding the difference between filer and non filer is critical, especially when dealing with high-value assets like property.
Feature | Filer | Non-Filer |
Included in ATL | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Tax on property transactions | Low (1-2%) | High (4-6%) |
Vehicle registration charges | Standard | Higher |
Bank transaction tax | Low | Higher |
Property purchase limits | No limit | Restricted |
Legal actions from FBR | Unlikely if compliant | Very likely |
Why You Must Be a Filer in 2025
Pakistan’s economy is becoming more digitally integrated and monitored. Gone are the days when you could remain hidden in the system. Whether you earn a salary or are self-employed, being a filer offers long-term stability.
If you’re purchasing real estate with Land Advisor Real Estate Consultants like in Union Luxury Apartments, Union Green, or Etihad Town Phase 1 being a filer is mandatory to avoid extra taxes.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Filer in Pakistan Online
Let’s break down the entire process of becoming a filer in Pakistan online, especially for those doing it for the first time.
Step 1: Register Yourself with FBR
- Visit IRIS Portal
- Click on “Registration for Unregistered Person”
- Enter:
- Your CNIC
- Mobile number
- Email address
- Your CNIC
You’ll receive a verification code on your mobile and email.
Step 2: Get Your NTN (National Tax Number)
Once you verify your identity, the system will generate your NTN automatically.
You can:
- Log in to the IRIS portal
- Go to your profile
- Download and print your NTN for use in banking and real estate transactions
Step 2: Get Your NTN (National Tax Number)
This includes:
- Residential address
- Bank account details
- Employment or business data
Source(s) of income
Step 4: Submit Your Income Tax Return
Now comes the real task—filing your annual income tax return.
Here’s what you need:
- Salary slip or income records
- Tax deduction certificates (if any)
- Investment details (including real estate)
- Asset declaration (property, vehicles, cash, gold, etc.)
Once filled, review everything and hit “Submit”.
Step 5: Check Your Name in ATL
Within 24–48 hours, your name should appear in the Active Taxpayer List. Here’s how to check:
Online Method:
- Visit: https://atl.fbr.gov.pk
- Enter your CNIC without dashes
- Submit CAPTCHA
- Click search – if your name appears, you’re a filer!
SMS Method:
- Type: ATL (space) CNIC
- Send to: 9966
You’ll receive a reply confirming whether you are a filer or not.
How to Check If I Am a Filer or Not in 2025?
You don’t need an accountant to figure this out. You can easily check your status yourself.
- Use the ATL portal
- Send an SMS to 9966
- Ask your bank or tax lawyer
- Check directly in the IRIS portal dashboard
If you’re listed in ATL, it means you’re a tax filer in Pakistan.
How to Be a Filer in Pakistan Again If I Was Dropped from ATL?
Simply:
- Log in to IRIS
- File your missed return
- Pay any pending tax dues
- Wait for your name to reappear in the ATL
Final Words: Filing Is Financial Freedom
The question is no longer how to become a filer in Pakistan online you now have the answer.
Now it’s about when you’ll do it.
Don’t wait for the FBR to come knocking. Get proactive. File your returns. Join the ATL. Lower your tax burden. And invest with peace of mind.
Especially if you’re entering the real estate market in Lahore, becoming a filer is the first and most important step toward long-term success.
👉 Need property consultation or help filing before purchasing land? Visit LandAdvisor.info we’re here to help you every step of the way.
