As an expatriate living and working in Pakistan, it is essential to understand the country’s taxation system to avoid any potential legal issues. In this article, we will provide a brief overview of Pakistan’s taxation system and guide expatriates on how to navigate it.
Pakistan has a two-tier tax system consisting of Federal and Provincial taxes. The Federal taxes are regulated by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the provincial taxes are administered by the respective Provincial Revenue Authorities (PRAs).
The taxes imposed in Pakistan include direct taxes and indirect taxes. Direct taxes are levied on the income of individuals and corporations. These include income tax, wealth tax, and corporate tax. Indirect taxes are imposed on the consumption of goods and services, such as sales tax, excise duty, and customs duty.
For expatriates, the most significant tax is the income tax, which is levied on all forms of income earned in Pakistan. This includes salaries, wages, bonuses, and any other income earned through employment or business. If an expatriate has been living and working in Pakistan for less than 183 days, they are considered non-resident, and only income earned in Pakistan is taxable. If an expatriate has been living and working in Pakistan for more than 183 days, they are considered a resident and are required to pay tax on all global income.
To file taxes in Pakistan, expatriates must obtain a National Tax Number (NTN) from the FBR. This can be done online by registering on the FBR’s online portal or by visiting the nearest tax facilitation center. Once registered, the expatriate must file a tax return annually. The tax year in Pakistan runs from July 1st to June 30th of the following year, and the tax return must be filed by September 30th.
Expatriates can claim certain deductions on their tax returns. These include deductions for charitable donations, health expenses, and education expenses. However, these deductions are subject to specific limits and conditions.
Another essential aspect to consider as an expatriate in Pakistan is double taxation. If an expatriate is a resident of a country with which Pakistan has signed a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), they may be able to avoid paying tax twice on the same income. The expatriate can claim a credit for the tax paid in Pakistan on their tax return in their home country.
To navigate Pakistan’s taxation system, expatriates should keep accurate records of their income, expenses, and taxes paid. They should also seek professional advice from tax consultants or chartered accountants to ensure compliance with tax laws.
In conclusion, expatriates living and working in Pakistan must be aware of their tax obligations and navigate the country’s taxation system. By obtaining an NTN, filing a tax return annually, and seeking professional advice, expatriates can avoid any legal issues and ensure compliance with tax laws.
