NTN (National Tax Number) is the number the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) uses to identify you as a taxpayer. For an individual in Pakistan, your NTN is simply your 13-digit CNIC — you do not apply for a separate number.

You "get" your NTN by registering once on FBR's online portal, IRIS. Registration is free, takes about 15 minutes, and your NTN is active the moment you finish. Businesses and companies are issued a separate NTN, but salaried individuals just use their CNIC.

In Pakistan: you need an active NTN to file an income tax return and to appear on the Active Taxpayer List (the "filer" list) that unlocks lower withholding tax.

Example: to file your return, you log in to IRIS with your CNIC (no dashes) — that CNIC is your NTN.

Don't confuse it with: being a "filer." Having an NTN means you're registered; you only become an active filer once you actually file your return.

Related terms: IRIS · Dividend Where you'll meet this: Income tax and filing in Pakistan · How to register on IRIS and find your NTN