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In a move to ease taxpayer transactions, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced that all commercial banks, including National Bank of Pakistan branches handling customs collections, will operate extended hours on Saturday, January 31, 2026. Branches will remain open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM to facilitate over the counter payment of government duties and taxes.
The central bank emphasized that banks should remain open as long as necessary to support the Special Clearing for Government transactions conducted by NIFT. Taxpayers will also have access to uninterrupted digital payment channels, including internet banking, mobile apps, and ATMs, ensuring smoother online payments.
“This arrangement is aimed at providing convenience to taxpayers and reducing last-minute rush at bank counters,” an official from SBP stated.
The decision comes following a request from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), which is actively encouraging citizens and businesses to complete their pending government duty and tax payments efficiently. Extended banking hours are part of ongoing efforts to streamline government revenue collection and enhance digital payment adoption.
Banks’ extended hours are expected to significantly reduce congestion and improve service efficiency. Taxpayers are advised to utilize both over the counter and digital payment facilities to avoid delays. This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader push towards digital financial inclusion and convenient taxpayer services.
