FBR to Remove 2025 Non-Filers from Active Taxpayers List on November 1
ISLAMABAD, October 2025 — The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has officially announced that the new Active Taxpayers List (ATL) for Tax Year 2025 will be published on November 1, 2025, following the recent extension of the income tax return filing deadline.
This year, Pakistan has reached a record-breaking 8.47 million active taxpayers, a sign that more individuals and businesses are joining the formal tax network than ever before.
Why the ATL Release Was Delayed
The list was initially scheduled for release on October 1, but the FBR postponed it after extending the return filing deadline from October 15 to October 31, 2025. The extension was granted to give taxpayers extra time to file their returns accurately.
According to an FBR spokesperson, this short delay will ensure that all verified tax filers are included in the new ATL without any technical errors or omissions.
“The updated Active Taxpayers List for Tax Year 2025 will be published on November 1, immediately after the extended filing period closes,” the spokesperson confirmed.
What Will Happen to Non-Filers?
Anyone who does not file their tax return by October 31 will be automatically removed from the list once the new ATL goes into effect. These individuals will be considered non-filers (or late filers) and will pay higher withholding tax rates on a variety of financial transactions, such as real estate sales and purchases, vehicle registration and transfers, banking, and investment activities.
This action is part of FBR’s strict enforcement strategy to discourage regular delays and encourage timely filing.
Immediate 2025 Filers ATL Inclusion
The FBR’s updated digital system, which now enables instant ATL inclusion for taxpayers who file their returns on time, is one of the largest enhancements this year.
In previous years, filers often had to wait several months — sometimes until March — to appear on the ATL. Now, thanks to real-time data verification and automation, a taxpayer’s name appears on the list as soon as their return is successfully filed and verified.
This upgrade has made the process faster, more equitable, and more convenient for compliant taxpayers.
The ATL’s Importance
Being an Active Taxpayer is not one’s passive choice, since there are real financial benefits. Active filers enrolled have the following advantages:
• Reduced withholding tax levels on property, banking, and car transactions;
• Participation in government contracts and tenders;
• Quicker refunds of taxes and simpler processing;
• Improved company reputation among customers and business partners.
However, non-filers pay double or even triple the tax rates on some transactions, which is a compelling argument for maintaining compliance.
A Shift Towards a Faster, More Open System
FBR’s action in releasing the ATL shortly after the due date to file, as opposed to the earlier March 1 release date, is a policy shift.
This switch ensures the list is reflective of current taxpayer activity, and therefore the system is more transparent and current. It also complements FBR’s overall digital transformation strategy, encompassing automation, online filing facilitation, and AI-based taxpayer support systems.
What Taxpayers Need to Do Now
With the October 31 deadline approaching close, taxpayers are requested to:
• File their returns as soon as possible to secure a slot on the 2025 ATL
• Ensure return information for avoiding errors and delays, and
• Rely on the IRIS portal or online helpline of FBR.
At time filing not only guarantees ATL to be on board but also spares you from additional taxes and unnecessary fees.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming ATL 2025 release represents another important step toward a smarter, faster, and more compliant tax system in Pakistan.
The 8.47 million active filers who have already joined show how Pakistan’s tax culture is gradually evolving.
If you haven’t filed yet, now is the time. By fostering a more fair and transparent tax system for everyone, paying taxes benefits not just you but the economy as a whole.