ISLAMABAD: In a significant initiative aimed at streamlining tax-related processes and providing comprehensive guidance, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has established Special Facilitation Desks specifically for Overseas Pakistanis.
These dedicated desks are now operational in Regional Tax Offices (RTOs) across major cities, offering direct access to FBR officials for assistance with various tax matters.
The move comes as part of broader government efforts to facilitate and address the concerns of the Pakistani diaspora, recognizing their vital contribution to the national economy through remittances and investments.
Key Contact Persons and Locations
To ensure effective communication and support, the FBR has designated specific contact persons at these facilitation desks, equipped with mobile numbers and email addresses:
RTO, Islamabad:
Mr. Muhammad Shumail Aslam (Assistant Commissioner IR): 0344-5151517, [email protected]
Mr. Waqas Amin (Upper Division Clerk): 0333-5996999, [email protected]
RTO, Lahore:
Mr. Umar Mukhtar (Assistant Commissioner IR): 0333-4030868, [email protected]
Mr. Dilbar Hafeez (Inland Revenue Officer): 0334-9946798, [email protected]
RTO, Peshawar:
Mr. Muhammad Yasir Nabi (Deputy Commissioner IR): 0333-9022622, [email protected]
Mr. Muhammad Mudaser (Inspector IR): 0344-9291104, [email protected]
RTO-I, Karachi:
Mr. Shoaib Ahmed (Deputy Commissioner IR): 0333-4563956, [email protected]
Mr. Sandeep Kumar (Inspector IR): 0345-3060745, [email protected]
Scope of Facilitation and Broader Initiatives
These special desks are intended to assist Overseas Pakistanis with a range of tax-related queries, including income tax, customs, sales tax, and federal excise issues. According to FBR officials, any complaints lodged by overseas Pakistanis are expected to be addressed within 15 days, with regular updates provided via email, WhatsApp, or phone.
This initiative complements other recent measures aimed at empowering overseas investors, such as the establishment of dedicated courts for overseas Pakistanis, allowing evidence submission via video link, and tax incentives related to real estate investments.
The Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) has also established an Overseas Pakistanis Grievances Redressal Cell (OPGRC) to address complaints, ensuring that unresolved matters are automatically escalated for further investigation if not resolved by the FBR within 30 days.
The creation of these facilitation desks underscores the FBR’s commitment to enhancing taxpayer services and fostering greater trust and convenience for the millions of Pakistanis residing abroad.
