Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has suspended its requirement for taxpayers to log into the IRIS online filing system using a QR code, following a complaint submitted to the Federal Tax Ombudsman (FTO) Regional Secretariat in Peshawar. The decision comes as part of an effort to address concerns raised by stakeholders regarding accessibility to the system, which serves as a central platform for tax returns and compliance processes. Officials confirmed that the login requirement has been formally withdrawn, with the development expected to make access to IRIS more straightforward for users.
According to a tax expert familiar with the matter, the initial complaint focused on difficulties faced by taxpayers due to the mandatory QR code authentication mechanism. Many users had reported challenges in completing the login process, raising concerns over technical barriers that limited seamless access to the tax filing platform. The issue was escalated to FTO for resolution, prompting FBR to review the login requirement. In response, FBR issued a letter to the FTO Regional Secretariat Peshawar confirming that the QR code mandate has now been suspended. The suspension has effectively addressed the grievance raised and is being seen as a relief for filers struggling with system access.
IRIS is a core component of Pakistan’s digital tax infrastructure, enabling taxpayers to submit income tax returns, manage compliance obligations, and update records online. While the QR code requirement was introduced as part of a broader push for enhanced security, the move generated criticism for creating additional complications. Tax professionals have argued that while strong authentication measures are necessary, they must also balance convenience to ensure widespread adoption of digital filing. With the QR code login now on hold, users are expected to benefit from simplified entry to the platform, which may encourage greater compliance and smoother filing experiences during peak tax season.
The suspension highlights broader challenges that Pakistan’s tax digitization efforts face as they strive to balance security, accessibility, and user experience. In recent years, FBR has moved to expand online services and digitize revenue processes, aligning with the government’s Digital Pakistan agenda. However, recurring concerns around system usability, technical glitches, and unexpected policy changes have often led to confusion among taxpayers. The latest development underscores the importance of continuous stakeholder feedback in shaping digital reforms. For now, the removal of the QR code login requirement marks a step toward making IRIS more user-friendly and responsive to the needs of taxpayers.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
