How Overseas Pakistanis can become a Tax Filer

How Overseas Pakistanis can become a Tax Filer

Do you still have ties to Pakistan even though you live abroad? Perhaps you wish to register a car, purchase real estate, or simply maintain your financial stability back home. For whatever reason, you have undoubtedly heard about filing taxes in Pakistan.

However, do you have to file taxes as a Pakistani living abroad? And from overseas, how do you even do it?

Let’s get straight to the point—no fancy tax jargon, just straightforward conversation.

Let’s start with the definition of “non-resident.”

Many people believe that they are automatically considered non-residents for tax purposes simply because they reside outside of Pakistan. That’s not always true.

Here’s what the law says in 2025:

You are a non-resident Pakistani for tax purposes if you live in another country for at least 183 days in one year or you are a tax resident of another country (meaning you pay tax or file returns there).

So yes, you can travel in and out of countries — just make sure your total time abroad is 183 days or more in the year (from July 1 to June 30).

Do I Need to File a Tax Return in Pakistan?

Now, the most important question is: Even if you don’t live in Pakistan, do you still need to file taxes there?

The simple answer is as follows:
It is true that if you receive income from Pakistan (from business, investments, or rent, for instance), you must file a tax return.

• No, if you don’t make any money in Pakistan, you are not required to file. Even if you are not required, it is still a good idea to become a filer. Why?

Because being a filer saves you money on a number of things, including:
• Buying cars or real estate in Pakistan;
• Performing bank transactions;
• Sending money or investments

As a non-filer, your taxes on these transactions will be much higher.

How to Submit Your Foreign Tax Return

The good news is that becoming a filer does not require you to travel to Pakistan. As You can do everything online.

Here’s how to do it, step-by-step:

1. 1. Register on You can register on FBR’s IRIS portal if you do not currently have a National Tax Number (NTN).

Or just register quickly and easily using platforms like Corptax Solution.

2. 2. Compile your information, CNIC, and any Pakistani income you may have.

o Optional: Bank account information or property details (if required)

3. Enter Your Information
   o Either complete the online form or seek assistance from the platform’s consultant.
4. File Your Return o Your name will be added to the Active Taxpayer List (ATL), signifying that you are now a filer, once you have finished your return.

Final Thoughts: Should You File as an Overseas Pakistani?

If you live abroad and have no income in Pakistan, you’re not legally bound to file a tax return.

But if you ever plan to:

• Buy a house or car in Pakistan
• Open a business or invest
• Save on taxes during money transfers

 Then it’s better to become a tax filer — even voluntarily.

It shows that you’re financially active and connected to your country, and it can save you a lot of trouble (and money) later.

Need Help Filing?

You can file through:

• Corptax Solution
• Your tax consultant

These services are made especially for people living abroad and make the process simple.

 In Short:

Even if you live thousands of miles away, becoming a tax filer in Pakistan is just a few clicks away.

And trust us, your future self will thank you.