Non-filers to face strict repercussions in 2025 Pakistan

Web Desk — The federal government is all set to enforce stricter regulations on tax non-filers through the Tax Law Amendment Bill 2024-25 in the National Assembly. These measures are aimed at improving tax compliance and boosting revenue collection.

Key Provisions of the Tax Law Amendment Bill 2024-25:

1. Bank Account Restrictions:

Non-filers will be prohibited from opening new bank accounts.

Excessive banking transactions by non-filers will be restricted.

2. Property Acquisition Limits:

Non-filers will face limitations on purchasing properties exceeding a specific value.

Acquisition of excessive shares will be completely barred.

3. Vehicle Purchase Ban:

Non-filers will be restricted from purchasing vehicles with engine capacities above 800 CC.

However, they can buy motorcycles, rickshaws, and tractors.

4. Freezing of Bank Accounts:

Bank accounts belonging to unregistered businesses will be frozen.

Non-filers will be unable to transfer property until compliance is achieved.

5. Government Authority to Sell Property:

The government will have the authority to sell properties owned by unregistered individuals.

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) will issue lists of affected individuals, leading to account freezes.

6. Sales Tax Registration Enforcement:

Non-filers who fail to register for sales tax will face account freezes and property transfer restrictions.

Accounts will only be unfrozen two days after the sales tax registration process is completed.

Appeals to open accounts must be directed to the Chief Commissioner.

Additional Provisions:

Spouses and children under 25 of registered filers will automatically be considered filers.

The restrictions will come into effect after an official notification from the federal government.

These amendments underline the government’s commitment to curbing tax evasion and fostering a more robust tax compliance culture in Pakistan. With these measures, the government aims to increase its revenue streams and ensure greater accountability among taxpayers.

More updates on the Tax Law Amendment Bill 2024-25 and its implications will be shared on these pages.