SBP asks commercial banks to remain open over weekend to facilitate taxpayers in payment of government duties and taxes
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Friday directed commercial banks to keep designated branches open on May 23 and 24 to facilitate taxpayers in the payment of government duties and taxes.
In a statement, the central bank said the decision was taken at the request of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to support over-the-counter (OTC) tax payments ahead of the closing period.
According to the SBP, Saturday-opening branches of all commercial banks, including branches of National Bank of Pakistan handling customs collections, will remain operational from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, May 23 and 24, 2026.
The central bank further advised banks to keep relevant branches open on May 24 for as long as required to facilitate special clearing operations for government transactions conducted through National Institutional Facilitation Technologies (NIFT).
The SBP also instructed banks to ensure uninterrupted availability of digital payment channels, including internet banking services, mobile banking applications, automated teller machines (ATMs) and other online platforms.
The measures are aimed at ensuring smooth collection of government revenues and providing taxpayers with uninterrupted access to payment facilities during the weekend.
