KARACHI: To facilitate taxpayers, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has instructed all commercial banks in the country to extend their working hours until 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, for over-the-counter payment of government duties and taxes. This step aims to ensure that taxpayers have sufficient time to settle their obligations before the end of the year.
The announcement, made by SBP on Tuesday, also emphasized that banks should keep relevant branches open beyond regular working hours if necessary. This measure is designed to support the special clearing of government transactions through the National Institutional Facilitation Technologies (NIFT) system, ensuring timely processing of payments.
In addition to extended branch hours, banks have been advised to maintain uninterrupted access to all digital payment channels. This includes internet banking, mobile applications, ATMs, and other online platforms. SBP stressed that digital infrastructure should remain fully operational to enable taxpayers to complete government payments smoothly and without delays, reducing pressure on physical branches.
Taxpayers are encouraged to plan their transactions in advance and take advantage of both extended branch hours and digital banking services. By providing flexibility through extended operating hours and reliable digital channels, the SBP aims to make the tax payment process more convenient and efficient.
This move comes as part of SBP’s broader efforts to streamline banking operations, improve public access to financial services, and facilitate the timely collection of government revenue. Experts suggest that such measures not only help taxpayers meet deadlines but also enhance the overall efficiency of the financial system in Pakistan.
Banks across major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and other urban centers, are expected to follow SBP’s directives closely. With this initiative, both over-the-counter and digital taxpayers will have multiple options to complete their payments comfortably before the fiscal year-end.
