Receiving International Payments in Pakistan (Freelancers & Exporters)
Quick answer
Pakistani freelancers and exporters receive international payments through bank wire transfers, Payoneer, Wise, and similar services, or via a Proceeds Realisation Certificate (PRC) route for documented exports. IT/ITeS exporters registered with PSEB can retain a portion of earnings in foreign currency and benefit from tax concessions.
| IT export tax — PSEB registered | 0.25% final tax |
|---|---|
| IT export tax — not registered | 1% final tax |
| Legal basis | Section 154A |
Sources · reviewed by BuzIntel editorial
Step by step
- Set up a receiving channel. Open a business bank account and, for services, register with PSEB if you export IT/ITeS. Many freelancers use Payoneer or Wise linked to their local account.
- Document the income. Ensure foreign receipts land through banking channels so they're recorded as export proceeds — this matters for tax treatment and the PRC.
- Use the right tax route. Registered IT exporters enjoy concessional tax on export income. Keep invoices and contracts to prove the income is export-related.
- Reconcile and report. Match payments to invoices, retain remittance advices, and declare the income in your annual return to stay a compliant filer.
Frequently asked questions
+Is PayPal available in Pakistan?
PayPal does not operate conventionally for Pakistani accounts; most freelancers use Payoneer, Wise, or direct bank transfers instead.
+Do I pay tax on foreign freelance income?
Yes, but IT/ITeS export income receives concessional treatment for registered exporters. Document everything and file your return.
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