How to register a business and get an NTN in Pakistan — register your business name, sign up on FBR IRIS, add your business, and get sales-tax registration if needed.
To run a business legally, invoice clients or open a business bank account, you need a business NTN (National Tax Number) from the FBR. A sole proprietor can register their business on the FBR IRIS portal in a few steps; companies register with SECP first, then the FBR.
This guide covers the common case — a sole proprietor / small business. Keep your CNIC, business name, address, and a bill/letterhead handy. If your turnover requires it, you also register for sales tax.
For a small business, a sole proprietorship is simplest. A private limited company must first be incorporated with SECP.
Create an account on the FBR IRIS portal (iris.fbr.gov.pk). For an individual, your CNIC serves as your personal NTN.
In IRIS, add your business details — business name, nature, start date and business address — to register the sole proprietorship under your NTN.
Attach proof of business address (a utility bill and, if rented, a rent agreement) and your bank account details / letterhead as requested.
Once submitted, your business NTN is issued and visible on IRIS; you can print the registration certificate.
If you sell taxable goods or your turnover requires it, apply for Sales Tax Registration (STRN) in IRIS.
Once registered, file your income tax return (and sales tax returns if applicable) to stay compliant and on the Active Taxpayer List.
Register on the FBR IRIS portal, add your business (name, nature, address) under your CNIC-based NTN, attach proof of address, and the business NTN is issued.
A sole proprietorship is registered simply by adding the business to your NTN on IRIS. Only companies need separate SECP incorporation.
If you supply taxable goods/services or your turnover crosses the threshold, you must obtain a Sales Tax Registration Number (STRN) through IRIS.