Individual taxpayers are turning to the National Board of Revenue’s (NBR) online system in large numbers to seek extensions for filing income tax returns, officials said.
For the 2025–2026 tax year, the NBR has made online submission of income tax returns mandatory for most individual taxpayers, with a few exceptions. More than five million individuals have already registered on the e-return system, and over 4.15 million have submitted their returns online.
The deadline for filing returns has been extended to 31 March. Taxpayers who require additional time can request up to 90 extra days by submitting a written application before the deadline. Approvals are granted by the relevant tax commissioner.
To streamline the process, NBR has introduced a fully online system for extension requests. Taxpayers can now log into the e-return platform and submit their requests via the “Time Extension” option.
In recent days, over 5,000 taxpayers have applied online, with most applications approved quickly. Tax commissioners in respective zones are granting approvals digitally.
Once approved, taxpayers can file returns within the extended period without facing penalties or extra taxes. Officials urged those who have not yet filed for an extension by 31 March if they wish to avoid fines.
Applicants must be registered on the e-return system using a biometric SIM in their own name. Taxpayers required to file online can submit extension requests either through the e-return system or directly to their tax circle.
The NBR emphasised that all individual taxpayers should file returns within the deadline using the e-return system. Those unable to meet the deadline must apply online with valid reasons to secure a 90-day extension.
