Sales tax (STRN): do you need it, and how to register

STRN (Sales Tax Registration Number) lets you charge sales tax, issue FBR e-invoices and claim back the input tax on your purchases. Not every business needs it — but once you do, it’s not optional. Here’s how to tell, and how to register.

Do you need it?

You generally need an STRN if you’re a manufacturer, importer, or a retailer/trader above the turnover thresholds, or if your buyers require tax invoices to claim input credit. Service businesses register for provincial sales tax (PRA, SRB, KPRA) instead, depending on where you operate.

The NADRA biometric step

Sales-tax registration includes a one-time NADRA biometric verification, plus proof of your business premises (often a utility bill or a GPS-tagged photo) and a bank account maintenance certificate. It’s a bit more involved than an NTN, but it’s a one-time process.

Your first FBR e-invoice

Once registered, every sales invoice you issue is sent to the FBR e-invoicing system, which stamps it with an IRN and a QR code — a fully compliant invoice your customer can claim input tax against. Akountmate registers your STRN and issues compliant e-invoices for you from day one.

Note: tax rules and rates change with each Finance Act, and your situation may differ. This is general guidance, not formal tax advice — Akountmate confirms the exact figures and sections for your business before anything is filed.

Want this handled for you?

Akountmate prepares it, explains it, and files it with your approval.