FBR set to retire IRIS 2.0, prepare launch of next-generation IRIS 3.0 tax portal

Official sources said the proposed IRIS 3.0 platform is expected to eventually take over the functions currently performed through IRIS 2.0, including income tax return filing, tax

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is preparing to replace its existing online tax filing platform, IRIS 2.0, with a new digital system aimed at improving the experience of millions of taxpayers across Pakistan.

Official sources said the proposed IRIS 3.0 platform is expected to eventually take over the functions currently performed through IRIS 2.0, including income tax return filing, tax payments and refund-related services. The transition is being planned as part of the FBR’s wider effort to modernise Pakistan’s tax administration through digital technology.

The new portal is expected to feature a simpler interface and improved navigation for individual taxpayers, salaried persons and businesses. The system is also being designed to improve processing speeds and reduce technical problems, including slow response times and service interruptions that have frequently affected taxpayers during peak filing periods.

According to officials familiar with the development, IRIS 3.0 is also expected to offer stronger integration with relevant government and financial institutions. The planned architecture could facilitate improved connectivity with banks, NADRA, SECP and provincial revenue authorities, allowing tax-related information to be processed more efficiently.

Security is another key component of the proposed upgrade, with enhanced safeguards for taxpayer information and additional authentication measures expected to form part of the new system. The portal is also being developed with greater compatibility for smartphones and tablets, enabling taxpayers to access services more conveniently.

Tax practitioners and taxpayers have repeatedly raised concerns over technical glitches, system downtime and complicated navigation on the existing IRIS platform, particularly close to filing deadlines. The FBR is hoping that the upgraded system will address these issues and bring Pakistan’s digital tax administration closer to international e-governance practices.

An FBR spokesperson told Minute Mirror that the transition arrangements are currently being finalised. Officials indicated that taxpayer information held in IRIS 2.0 would be migrated to the new platform, while training and awareness sessions for tax professionals, accountants and FBR personnel are also expected ahead of the rollout.

The transition is likely to involve a formal cutover schedule, with the FBR expected to communicate the implementation date and provide guidance to taxpayers before the new platform becomes operational.

Tax experts believe a properly managed transition could help reduce filing difficulties, improve compliance and make online tax services more accessible. However, they stressed that uninterrupted access to taxpayer services and secure migration of existing records will be crucial for the success of IRIS 3.0.