FBR Extends Deadline for Manual Tax Filers Amid Push for Full Digital Transition

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced an extension for income tax return submissions by manual filers, setting the new deadline at November 30, 2025. This decision reflects the Board’s commitment to facilitating taxpayers as they transition from manual processes to the fully digitized online filing system.

Although manual filings were officially discontinued starting from Tax Year 2024, FBR recognized that a segment of taxpayers may encounter challenges in adapting to the digital system. In response, the Board has introduced a robust facilitation plan to guide and support these individuals, ensuring a seamless and user-friendly transition to online tax compliance.

Central to this initiative is the establishment of dedicated facilitation cells across all tax offices in Pakistan. These centers are equipped to provide free technical and legal assistance to taxpayers who may face difficulties with registration, filing, or navigating the online portal. The goal is to ensure that no taxpayer is left behind during the shift from paper-based to digital submissions.

FBR officials have emphasized that taxpayers are encouraged to visit their nearest tax office for hands-on support. In addition, field teams deployed by the Board will offer legal and technical guidance throughout the current tax year. These measures aim to reduce the compliance burden while enhancing transparency and efficiency within the taxation system.

The extension also reflects FBR’s broader vision of building a modern, digital-first tax ecosystem. By moving toward fully electronic filings, the Board intends to simplify the tax process, reduce errors, and make compliance faster and more convenient for both individuals and businesses. Experts suggest that the move will ultimately improve transparency and reduce the scope for manual errors or delays in tax administration.

Tax analysts note that this initiative aligns with Pakistan’s larger digital transformation agenda, which seeks to integrate technology into public services and streamline bureaucratic processes. By supporting taxpayers during the transition, FBR is fostering an environment where compliance is easier, more accessible, and less time-consuming.

Humaira Qamar, a financial analyst, commented that such facilitation programs are essential to drive adoption of digital systems in a country where paper-based processes have been standard for decades. “The extension provides taxpayers with breathing room to adapt to the online platform while benefiting from expert support, ultimately paving the way for a more efficient and accountable tax system,” she said.

As Pakistan continues to embrace digital finance and technology-driven public services, FBR’s initiative signals a strong commitment to modernization, transparency, and taxpayer convenience. With facilitation centers and extended deadlines in place, manual filers have ample support to complete their tax obligations seamlessly.

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