Are you a freelancer in Pakistan looking to take advantage of the booming global freelancing market? You’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of registering as a freelancer with the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB). From understanding the benefits to the step-by-step registration process, we’ve got you covered.
The Freelancing Landscape in Pakistan
Freelancing is on the rise worldwide, and Pakistan is making significant strides in this field. Ranked 4th among the top countries for freelancing, software development, and technology, Pakistan has generated a remarkable $0.5 billion in revenue. The IT sector in Pakistan holds immense potential, and the country aims to consistently rank among the top Internet Communications and Technology (ICT) outsourcing destinations. To eas the process of registration Ministry of IT has lunched online portal for registrations of freelancers.
Tax Exemption for Freelancers
To encourage freelancing and remote work, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications has proposed a game-changing initiative: a 10-year tax exemption for freelancers. Additionally, the PSEB freelancer registration process aims to remove double taxation, making it even more enticing for freelancers to thrive.
Understanding the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB)
Before we dive into the registration process, let’s understand the pivotal role played by the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB). This government agency is dedicated to promoting Pakistan’s information technology industry in both domestic and foreign online marketplaces. They provide unwavering support to the IT industry across various facets, including infrastructure development, human capital enhancement, firm capability development, international marketing, strategy, and research.
Step-by-Step Guide to PSEB Freelancer Registration
New Freelancers – Getting Started
If you’re new to freelancing and eager to register with PSEB, follow these steps:
- Visit the Official PSEB Website: Start by visiting the official PSEB website here.
- Select the Freelancer Registration Option: On the website, locate the “Registration” option, and select the “freelancer” option.
- Create Your Account: For new freelancers, the first step is to sign up and create your account.
- Complete the Registration Form: Fill out the registration form with all the required details. Ensure that you provide accurate information and upload the necessary documents. Accuracy here is key, as any missing information might result in rejection.
- Initial Approval: Once you’ve submitted your application, await the initial approval from PSEB.
- Payment of Requisite Fee: Upon receiving initial approval, you’ll need to deposit the necessary particular purpose fee. Be sure to keep the payment receipt.
- Final Approval: After verifying your registration payment, which usually takes 2-5 working days, PSEB will process your application and issue the certificate.
Required Documents for PSEB Freelancer Registration
To ensure a smooth registration process, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Scanned copies of your Personal NTN.
- Scanned copies of your CNIC (Both Sides).
- Personal Bank Account Letter/Certificate.
Existing Freelancers – Renewal Process
If you’re already registered as a freelancer with PSEB and need to renew your registration, follow these steps:
- Login to the PSEB Registration Portal: Start by logging in to the PSEB registration portal.
- Complete the Renewal Form: Enter the required information in the registration renewal form. Just like in the initial registration, make sure you provide accurate information and upload the necessary documents.
- Initial Approval for Renewal: After submitting your renewal application, await the initial approval from PSEB.
- Renewal Fee Payment: Once you receive initial approval, proceed to deposit the renewal fee. Ensure you keep the payment receipt.
- Final Approval for Renewal: After verifying your renewal payment, PSEB will take approximately 2-5 working days to process your application and issue the renewed certificate.
Documents Needed for Registration Renewal
For freelancers renewing their registration, the following documents are required:
- Scanned copies of the Summary of Export Revenue with the proper IT/ITeS code defined by SBP (for export-oriented freelancers).
- Income Tax Return for the preceding year.
PSEB Freelancer Registration Fee
The good news for new freelancers in Pakistan is that the initial registration is entirely free. However, there is a requisite fee that serves a specific purpose. For freelancers renewing their registration, the renewal charge is Rs. 2,000 per year. The process is made convenient, as these charges can be paid online through various banking channels. If online payment is not an option for you, you can choose to pay through a pay order or a demand draft. Don’t forget to send the receipt of your payment, along with your name and contact details, via email to reg.payments@pseb.org.pk. This ensures the timely processing of your PSEB registration or renewal application.
Benefits of PSEB Freelancer Registration
Now that you’ve learned how to register with PSEB, let’s delve into the fantastic benefits awaiting you as a registered freelancer:
- Low Registration Fee: For the first year, the registration fee is a mere Rs. 1,000, with an annual renewal charge of Rs. 3,500. This affordability makes it accessible for freelancers of all levels.
- Access to PSEB Programs and Initiatives: Registration grants you unlimited access to PSEB programs and initiatives. This includes free and subsidized training, certifications, access to ICT graduate interns at no cost, and opportunities for subsidized office space at Software Technology Parks (STPs).
- International Marketing and Matchmaking Opportunities: PSEB opens doors to international marketing opportunities, helping you expand your reach and connect with potential clients and collaborators globally.
- Facilitation Desk: If you encounter any issues related to taxation, banking, Intellectual Property rights, IP Whitelisting, or government taxation, PSEB provides a facilitation desk to assist you.
- SECP Discount: Freelancers registered with PSEB can enjoy a 20% discount on SMC (Pvt) Ltd registration through the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
- Loan Options: Under government initiatives, freelancers can access loans at favorable rates, with a maximum limit of Rs. 1 Million.
- Health Expense and Life Insurance: Certain government programs offer health expense and life insurance coverage to freelancers.
- Tech Travel Card: Hold a record of a minimum of three years of IT & ITeS export remittances exceeding the US $5,000 per year through formal banking channels, and you can qualify for a Tech Travel card.
- Tax Exemption: IT & ITeS export income is tax exempted for PSEB registered freelancers receiving export remittances via formal banking channels and being reported in purpose codes assigned by the State Bank of Pakistan for the IT & ITeS sector.
In conclusion, registering as a freelancer with the Pakistan Software Export Board offers you a plethora of benefits and opens up numerous opportunities for growth and success in the world of freelancing. Whether you’re just starting your freelancing journey or looking to renew your registration, the process is straightforward, and the rewards are substantial. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of Pakistan’s thriving freelancing community. Register with PSEB today and take your freelancing career to new heights!
