FBR Eligibility Certificate in Pakistan – A Complete Guide 2025
🔍 What is FBR Eligibility Certificate?
The FBR Eligibility Certificate is an official document issued by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) that proves whether a person or business is a filer or non-filer in Pakistan. It is also known as the Active Taxpayer Certificate or FBR Filer Certificate.
This certificate is used to check a person’s status in the Active Taxpayer List (ATL). Being a filer means you are registered with FBR and have submitted your income tax return for the last year.
📝 Why is the FBR Certificate Important?
FBR Eligibility Certificate is mandatory for many legal and financial activities in Pakistan. It helps:
- Prevent tax evasion
- Encourage tax filing
- Provide benefits to compliant taxpayers
- Charge higher taxes from non-filers
📌 Where is the FBR Eligibility Certificate Required?
You need this certificate in the following cases:
| Use Case | Filer Benefits | Non-Filer Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Buying Property | Lower tax on purchase & transfer | Higher withholding tax or restriction on high-value deals |
| Registering Vehicle | Lower registration fee & tax | High tax or registration restrictions (esp. above 1000cc) |
| Opening a Business Account | Smooth process | Additional scrutiny |
| Government Contracts | Eligibility to apply | Often ineligible |
| Import & Export Activities | Easy clearance | Higher duties |
| Loan Applications | Higher credit score | Lower financial trust |
| Education Visa Sponsorships | Accepted by embassies | May face visa delays |
🧾 What Does the Certificate Contain?
- Your full name
- CNIC or NTN
- FBR status (Filer or Non-Filer)
- Date of issuance
- Validity
- QR code or online verification link
🛠️ How to Get FBR Eligibility Certificate in 2025
You can apply for the FBR Eligibility Certificate using the following step-by-step method:
Method 1: Through FBR Website
- Go to: https://iris.fbr.gov.pk
- Log in using your CNIC/NTN and password
- Go to “Registration” section
- Click on “Taxpayer Profile”
- Download your Active Taxpayer Certificate (PDF)
Method 2: FBR Tax Asaan Mobile App
- Install the FBR Tax Asaan App from Play Store or App Store
- Log in with your CNIC
- Click on “ATL Certificate”
- View, download, or share your certificate directly
Method 3: ATL Status via SMS
- Type:
ATL <space> Your CNIC Number - Send to: 9966
- You’ll receive your status (Filer or Non-Filer) in seconds
🎁 Benefits of Having FBR Eligibility Certificate
- Lower tax rates on property & vehicle deals
- Easier access to government subsidies
- Increased financial credibility
- Fewer delays in loan approvals or scholarship applications
- Visa-friendly documentation for international travel
- Better business credibility for entrepreneurs
⚠️ Drawbacks of Not Having FBR Certificate (Being a Non-Filer)
- Higher taxes on all major purchases
- Risk of legal notices or inquiries from FBR
- Ineligibility for some government or private jobs
- Can’t buy property above Rs. 5 million (in some cases)
- Less trust in financial institutions or foreign embassies
📋 How to Become a Filer in Pakistan
If you’re not a filer and want to appear in the Active Taxpayer List (ATL):
- Register your NTN on https://iris.fbr.gov.pk
- Submit your Income Tax Return online
- Wait for your name to appear on the next ATL list
- Once included, download your FBR Eligibility Certificate
🧠 FAQs About FBR Eligibility Certificate
Q1: Is the certificate free of cost?
Yes, it is completely free to download and print.
Q2: Can I use the certificate for vehicle registration?
Yes, it’s required by Excise & Taxation departments across Pakistan.
Q3: How long is the certificate valid?
Usually, till the end of the fiscal year (June 30). You need to re-appear on ATL next year.
Q4: Do salaried persons also need this certificate?
Yes, especially when applying for loans, visas, or buying property/vehicle.
Q5: Can a non-filer apply for property or car?
Yes, but you will pay double taxes or face restrictions.
🧾 Final Words
The FBR Eligibility Certificate is not just a piece of paper. It proves your financial identity, helps you enjoy tax benefits, and supports transparent economic transactions. If you want to avoid penalties and build trust in the system, becoming a filer and keeping this certificate updated is the smart move.
For more tax guides and registration help, visit: akcpunjabgovpk.com
