NBR initiates entry of all paper VAT returns into e-VAT System

To maintain all taxpayer VAT returns in the e-VAT System, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has undertaken a unique endeavor.

A new sub-module called “Hard Copy Return Entry” has been added to the e-VAT System to make it easier to enter all monthly VAT returns that were previously filed in hard copy format into the online system.
Today, the NBR released a circular detailing the new sub-module’s operational protocols. According to an NBR press release, taxpayers will be able to independently enter their previously filed hard copy VAT returns into the e-VAT System by adhering to the circular.

Under the existing system, paper VAT returns submitted by taxpayers are entered into the e-VAT System through the Central Processing Centre (CPC) of the respective VAT Commissionerates. 

In this process, VAT officials manually input the data from hard copy returns. Entering a large volume of paper returns by VAT offices is a time-consuming task.

Due to delays in entering paper returns into the e-VAT System, taxpayers are often automatically charged interest and penalties. As a result, many taxpayers are unable to submit online VAT returns, as the system does not allow online filing without first paying the imposed penalties.

With the introduction of the Hard Copy Return Entry sub-module, taxpayers who submitted their hard copy VAT returns within the stipulated time as per Section 64 of the VAT and Supplementary Duty Act, 2012, will now be able to enter those returns into the e-VAT System themselves without any penalty or interest.

The e-VAT System link will be sent to taxpayers by email and mobile phone, making it simple for them to access and utilize the new sub-module.

Until March 31, 2026, taxpayers may enter all previously filed hard copy VAT returns onto the system without incurring any penalties or interest. Taxpayers will be able to easily file all VAT returns online once all previous paper returns have been put into the e-VAT System.

In its continuous effort to digitize all tax administration operations and guarantee accountability and transparency in the tax system, the NBR requests the full support of all taxpayers.