NBR rolls out digital system for requesting tax return deadline extension

The National Board of Revenue has launched an online system allowing taxpayers to apply for an extension to file their income tax returns.

This year, the deadline for individual taxpayers to file returns has been extended until 31 March.

However, taxpayers may apply for additional time before 31 March through a written request, upon which the relevant tax commissioner may grant an extension of up to 90 days, according to a statement issued today (16 March).

The NBR said it has introduced the online system through which the entire procedure can be completed digitally, in order to make the extension process easier, faster and more transparent.

Taxpayers can now log into the e-return system and submit a request for additional time using the "Time Extension" option in the portal.

Based on the online applications submitted by taxpayers, the tax commissioner of the tax zone concerned will either approve or reject the request through the same online system.

If the request is approved, taxpayers will be able to submit their returns within the extended deadline without penalties or additional taxes.

However, to apply online, taxpayers must be registered in the e-return system and must submit their request before 31 March.

Taxpayers for whom online return filing is not mandatory will be able to apply for an extension either online or by submitting a written application directly to the relevant tax circle.

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.

According to the revenue authority, nearly 50 lakh individual taxpayers have already registered on the NBR's e-return system for filing tax returns. Of them, around 41 lakh taxpayers have submitted their returns for the 2025-2026 tax year.