Karachi, December 30, 2025 – The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Tuesday instructed all commercial banks to extend their working hours on December 31, 2025, to facilitate taxpayers in the smooth payment of government duties and taxes ahead of the year-end deadline.
In an official statement, the central bank said the directive aims to ensure ease and convenience for taxpayers making over-the-counter (OTC) payments. Under the instructions, all branches of commercial banks across the country have been advised to remain open with extended working hours until 10:00 PM on Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
The SBP further directed banks to keep their relevant branches open for as long as required on December 31 to facilitate the Special Clearing for Government transactions carried out by the National Institutional Facilitation Technologies (NIFT). This measure is intended to ensure the timely settlement of government receipts on the last day of the calendar year.
In addition to extended branch operations, the central bank emphasized the importance of uninterrupted digital services. Banks have been advised to ensure continuous availability of their online payment channels, including internet banking, mobile banking applications, ATMs, and other digital platforms, to support taxpayers opting for electronic payment of duties and taxes.
Earlier, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) also issued similar instructions, directing Inland Revenue field offices to observe extended working hours until 10:00 PM on December 31, 2025. The coordinated measures by the SBP and FBR are aimed at minimizing inconvenience, reducing last-day congestion, and ensuring timely compliance with tax obligations by individuals and businesses.