The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has directed all commercial banks across the country to extend banking hours for tax and government payment collection, responding to a sharp rise in digital and over-the-counter transactions nationwide. The move aims to ensure maximum convenience for taxpayers and prevent last-day congestion.
According to the directive, banks will remain open until late evening on December 31, 2025, allowing individuals and businesses to complete government duties and tax payments without disruption. This decision reflects SBP’s broader push toward efficient, technology-driven financial services.
Why SBP Ordered Extended Banking Hours
End-of-year tax deadlines often result in heavy pressure on banking systems. To manage this surge smoothly, SBP has taken proactive measures to:
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Facilitate timely tax payments
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Reduce crowding at bank counters
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Support both manual and digital transactions
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Ensure uninterrupted government revenue collection
This step is particularly important as digital payment volumes continue to rise rapidly across Pakistan.
Extended Hours for Over-the-Counter Tax Payments
Under SBP instructions, all commercial banks must:
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Keep designated branches open beyond normal working hours
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Continue over-the-counter collection of taxes and government dues
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Deploy sufficient staff to manage increased customer flow
Banks may further extend hours where required to support special clearing arrangements.
Uninterrupted Digital Banking Services Mandatory
In addition to physical branches, SBP has strictly instructed banks to ensure round-the-clock availability of digital services, including:
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Internet banking platforms
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Mobile banking applications
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ATMs and self-service kiosks
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Other approved digital payment channels
This ensures taxpayers can complete payments remotely and securely, reducing dependency on branch visits.
Role of NIFT in Government Transaction Clearing
To support extended banking operations, banks have also been advised to coordinate with National Institutional Facilitation Technologies (NIFT) for the special clearing of government transactions. This coordination helps maintain smooth settlement and reconciliation of tax payments even beyond standard hours.
What This Means for Taxpayers
For individuals and businesses, this decision offers:
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More time to meet tax deadlines
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Reduced risk of late payment penalties
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Flexible choice between counter and digital payments
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Faster processing of government dues
Taxpayers are encouraged to use digital channels whenever possible to save time and avoid queues.
Key Guidelines for Customers
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Visit bank branches only if counter payment is necessary
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Prefer online or mobile banking for faster processing
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Complete payments early to avoid last-minute rush
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Keep payment receipts or confirmations safely
Following these tips can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
FAQs
1. Until what time will banks remain open for tax payments?
Banks have been instructed to remain open until late evening, up to 10:00 p.m., on December 31, 2025.
2. Does this apply to all banks in Pakistan?
Yes, the directive applies to all commercial banks regulated by SBP.
3. Are online banking services available during extended hours?
Yes, SBP has ordered uninterrupted access to all digital payment channels.
4. Can taxes be paid through mobile apps and ATMs?
Yes, taxpayers can use internet banking, mobile apps, ATMs, and other digital platforms.
5. Why has SBP taken this step now?
Due to increased transaction volume at year-end and rising use of digital payments nationwide.
Final Words
The decision by the State Bank of Pakistan to extend banking hours demonstrates a customer-centric and digitally progressive approach to financial management. By ensuring both physical and digital payment access, SBP is helping taxpayers meet deadlines smoothly while strengthening the country’s financial infrastructure.
Taxpayers are advised to plan payments wisely, leverage digital channels, and stay updated through official banking announcements to avoid any inconvenience.
