Complete Guide to PSEB Registration Renewal Process in Pakistan (2025)

Introduction The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) plays a crucial role in promoting the IT and ITeS (Information Technology Enabled Services) industry in Pakistan. Companies and freelancers working in this domain are required to register with PSEB to access government incentives such as tax exemptions, participation in international exhibitions, and export facilitation services. However, this registration is not a one-time process—it must be renewed annually to maintain eligibility. This guide explains the entire PSEB renewal process for both freelancers and companies, including documentation, procedures, fees, and common issues to avoid. ( https://sterling.pk/ )

Who Needs to Renew PSEB Registration? The following entities need to renew their PSEB registration every year:

• IT/ITeS companies registered with PSEB
• Freelancers registered as individuals
• Startups and SMEs operating in the software and IT services sector

Failure to renew registration can result in the removal of your listing from PSEB’s official directory and disqualification from availing tax exemptions under section 65F of the Income Tax Ordinance.

Section 1: PSEB Renewal Process for Freelancers

1. Required Documents To renew PSEB registration as a freelancer, you will need:

• Copy of CNIC (front and back)
• Personal National Tax Number (NTN)
• Bank account maintenance certificate (personal bank account in your name)
• Latest income tax return filed with FBR
• Proof of export remittances (PRCs from the bank or bank statement showing foreign inward remittances)

1. Step-by-Step Procedure Step 1: Login to the PSEB Freelancer Portal (https://registration.pseb.org.pk) Step 2: Click on ‘Renewal Application’ from your dashboard Step 3: Update your personal and bank details, if needed Step 4: Upload required documents Step 5: Submit the form for initial approval Step 6: Once approved, pay the renewal fee (usually Rs. 3,500) Step 7: Upload the payment receipt to the portal Step 8: Wait for final approval and download your renewed certificate
2. Fee Structure

• Freelancer Renewal Fee: Rs. 3,500 (as of 2025)

1. Processing Time

• Initial Approval: 2–3 working days
• Final Certificate Issuance: Within 5–7 working days after uploading payment receipt

Section 2: PSEB Renewal Process for Companies

1. Required Documents For companies registered with SECP or operating as sole proprietors, the following documents are necessary:

• SECP Incorporation Certificate (if applicable)
• Memorandum and Articles of Association (for Pvt Ltd companies)
• Audited financial statements for the last year
• Latest Income Tax Return
• PRCs (Proceeds Realization Certificates) or FIRC with correct IT/ITeS codes
• NTN certificate of the business
• Bank account maintenance certificate
• Organizational profile on company letterhead
• CNIC copies of directors/owners
• Board resolution authorizing the renewal (for Pvt Ltd companies)

1. Step-by-Step Procedure Step 1: Login to your PSEB company account at https://registration.pseb.org.pk Step 2: Navigate to ‘Renewal Application’ on your dashboard Step 3: Update company contact details, directors’ info, bank information, and services offered Step 4: Upload all mandatory documents Step 5: Submit for initial approval Step 6: On approval, pay the renewal fee (based on company category) Step 7: Upload the payment receipt Step 8: Await final verification and download the new certificate
2. Fee Structure (2025 Rates )

• Freelancer : Rs. 1,000
• Company renewal : Rs. 15,000

1. Processing Time

• Preliminary Approval: 5 working days
• Final Approval and Certificate Issuance: 7–10 working days after receipt upload

Section 3: Common Errors to Avoid During Renewal

1. Submitting Old Tax Returns Always attach the most recently filed income tax return with the FBR. Submitting an outdated return can delay or void your renewal.
2. Incorrect PRC Codes Ensure all PRCs or remittance proofs carry valid IT/ITeS codes as per State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) classifications. Wrong codes may disqualify your revenue as IT export.
3. Unmatched Bank Details The bank details you provide must match the information on your NTN and PRC.
4. Submitting Expired NTN or CNIC Check the validity of your NTN and CNIC before uploading.
5. Delayed Fee Submission You must upload your payment receipt within the deadline or risk rejection.

Section 4: Why PSEB Renewal is Important

1. Continued Tax Exemption Renewing your registration ensures continued eligibility for tax benefits under Section 65F of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001.
2. International Visibility Registered entities are featured in PSEB’s IT directory, which is used by international buyers and government agencies.
3. Government Support Programs Only registered and renewed entities are eligible to receive government support including training, subsidies, and grants.
4. Access to Trade Delegations and Events Renewed PSEB members can join international delegations organized by PSEB and the Ministry of IT.

Section 5: Renewal Tips and Best Practices

• Start the renewal process at least 30 days before expiration
• Keep digital and hard copies of all submitted documents
• Use an official email address linked to your business
• Keep proof of payment for at least 12 months
• Track application status regularly on the PSEB portal
• Reach out to PSEB support in case of delays (support@pseb.org.pk)

FAQs

Q1. How often should I renew PSEB registration? A: PSEB registration must be renewed every year.

Q2. Can I continue operating if my PSEB certificate expires? A: You can operate, but you won’t qualify for tax exemption or other government incentives.

Q3. Do freelancers and companies pay the same renewal fee? A: No, freelancers pay Rs. 3,500 while companies pay based on their structure.

Q4. What happens if my renewal application is rejected? A: You will be notified of the reasons. Once you fix the issues, you can reapply.

Q5. Can I make the payment online? A: Yes, payment can be made through bank transfer. The account details are shared during the approval stage.

Conclusion Renewing your PSEB registration is a critical administrative task for maintaining your eligibility for a range of benefits offered to Pakistan’s IT and ITeS sectors. Whether you are a freelancer or a full-fledged company, ensuring timely and accurate submission of documents, payment of fees, and compliance with regulations is necessary. This guide serves as a complete reference for 2025, ensuring you can renew your PSEB certificate smoothly and without errors.