Tax Knowledge Centre · Registration
What is an NTN in Pakistan and who needs one?
A plain-English explanation of the National Tax Number (NTN): what it is, how it relates to your CNIC, who needs one and how registration on FBR IRIS works.
Key points
- An NTN is your registration with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
- For individuals, FBR uses the CNIC number as the registration number once registered.
- Registration is done online through FBR’s IRIS portal.
- Registering is not the same as being on the Active Taxpayers List — that generally requires filing a return.
What does NTN stand for?
NTN stands for National Tax Number. It identifies a person or business registered with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for income tax. You will see it on tax returns, withholding certificates, invoices and many business documents.
Is my CNIC my NTN?
For individuals, FBR uses the 13-digit CNIC number as the registration number. However, simply holding a CNIC does not mean you are registered. You become registered once you complete registration on FBR’s IRIS system. Associations of persons (such as partnership firms) and companies have their own registration, separate from their owners.
Who needs an NTN?
- Individuals who are required to file an income tax return, or who want to file one
- Freelancers, consultants and self-employed professionals
- Sole proprietors, who add their business details to their individual registration
- Partnership firms and other associations of persons
- Companies incorporated with SECP
An NTN is also commonly needed for practical reasons — opening business bank accounts, registering for sales tax, joining a chamber of commerce or registering for import and export.
How registration works
Registration is completed online on FBR’s IRIS portal. The applicant provides their CNIC, a mobile number registered in their own name and an email address; verification codes are sent to both. Business applicants add details such as the business name, activity and address. Entities provide their constitutional documents.
FBR also offers online verification so that you, or a counterparty, can check a registration.
Registration vs being a “filer”
Registering gives you an NTN, but it does not by itself make you an active taxpayer. FBR’s Active Taxpayers List generally includes people who have filed their income tax return. Read more in our guide to the Active Taxpayers List (ATL).
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using a mobile number that is not registered in your own name
- Choosing the wrong registration type for a business
- Registering but never filing a return
- Sharing IRIS passwords insecurely
If you would like help, see our NTN registration service.
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