Tired of getting huge bank loans to start your small business dream? What if you could get an interest-free loan of up to PKR 1 Million with just a few clicks from your home? That’s exactly the opportunity the Punjab government is giving to its entrepreneurs.
The Asaan Karobar Card 2025 is a flagship initiative by Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, started to power the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the province. It’s more than just a loan; it’s a digital key to unlocking your business’s potential.
In this guide, we’ll guide you everything you need to know from eligibility to the application process:
What is the Asaan Karobar Card?
Imagine a dedicated business credit card, but with 0% interest. The Asaan Karobar Card is a revolutionary digital SME financing scheme. It provides a revolving credit facility of up to PKR 1 million to small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs in Punjab.
The core mission is to support business sustainability and growth by ensuring transparent, hassle-free, and digital access to funds. All transactions are managed through secure digital channels like mobile apps and POS systems, minimizing cash handling and maximizing transparency.
This initiative is a cornerstone of the government’s wider plan for economic development, similar in spirit to other supportive programs like the Punjab Livestock Card for farmers.
Key Features & Benefits: Why This Card is Important
Let’s get straight to the good stuff. Here’s what makes the Asaan Karobar Card so attractive for small business owners:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 💰 Loan Amount | Up to PKR 1,000,000 |
| 🎯 Interest Rate | 0% (Yes, completely interest-free!) |
| ⏳ Loan Tenure | 3 Years total |
| 🔁 Credit Type | Revolving Credit Facility for the first 12 months |
| 📅 Repayment | 24 equal monthly installments after the first year |
| 😊 Grace Period | 3 months from the card issuance date |
| 💳 Cash Withdrawal | Up to 25% of the assigned limit for business needs |
What can you use the cash for?
- Paying your vendors and suppliers.
- Clearing utility bills, government fees, and taxes.
- Making digital payments via POS machines or the mobile app.
- Limited cash withdrawal for miscellaneous business expenses.
Who is Eligible? The Must-Have Criteria
Before you get excited, let’s ensure you qualify. The eligibility criteria are straightforward:
- Age: You must be between 21 and 57 years old.
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Punjab and a Pakistani national.
- Business: Must have an existing business or a solid plan for a new one within Punjab.
- Document: A valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) is mandatory.
- Mobile Number: A mobile number registered in your own name for verification.
- Credit History: A clean credit history with no outstanding defaults on previous loans.
- One Application: Only one application per individual and per business is allowed.
Your application will also undergo a digital verification of your CNIC and a psychometric assessment to evaluate your business potential.
How to Apply for the Asaan Karobar Card: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process is fully digital, making it truly “Asaan” (easy). Here’s how you can apply online for the CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Card:
- Visit the Portal: Go to the official PITB Asaan Karobar Card portal (https://akc.punjab.gov.pk/).
- Read Instructions: Carefully read all the guidelines and requirements listed on the portal.
- Register: Click on “Apply Now” or “Register” and enter your basic details like CNIC, name, and registered mobile number to create an account.
- Login: Use your new credentials to access your Asaan Karobar Card application dashboard.
- Fill Application: Complete the three main sections of the form:
- Personal Details
- Business Details
- Loan Details
- Important Instruction: Use the “Save & Next” button frequently to avoid losing your progress.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload the required documents (typically a copy of your CNIC).
- Pay Fee: Pay the non-refundable processing fee of PKR 500 online.
- Submit: Review all information and hit the “Submit” button.
After submission, authorities will digitally verify your provided information. The Urban Unit may also conduct a physical verification of your business premises.
Important Charges, Rules, and Regulations
While the loan is interest-free, there are some necessary charges and strict rules to be aware of:
- Annual Card Fee: PKR 25,000 + FED will be deducted from your approved loan limit.
- Processing Fee: A one-time, non-refundable fee of PKR 500 at the time of application.
- Late Payment Fee: Charges as per the bank’s policy will apply if you miss an installment.
- Life Insurance & Delivery: These costs are covered by the scheme—a great benefit!
Crucial Rules:
- Business Use Only: The funds are strictly for business purposes. Any attempt to use them for personal entertainment, shopping, or consumption will be blocked.
- FBR/PRA Registration: You must register your business with the Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) or Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) within six months of receiving the card.
- Phased Release: The first 50% of your limit is available immediately. The second 50% is released only after you demonstrate satisfactory usage, consistent repayments, and successful FBR/PRA registration.
Asaan Karobar Card Helpline Number
Stuck somewhere? Need help with your application? The government has set up a dedicated support system.
Helpline Number: 1786
Don’t hesitate to call for assistance with your application, to check your status, or to resolve any issues you encounter. This initiative is part of a broader suite of support programs, much like the Registration for Himmat Card for disabled individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the maximum amount I can get from the Asaan Karobar Card?
You can get an interest-free loan of up to PKR 1 million (10 lakh rupees).
Q2: Is there any security or collateral required?
No physical collateral is needed. However, you will need to provide a digital personal guarantee. Life insurance is included in the package.
Q3: How long do I have to start repaying the loan?
You get a grace period of 3 months from the date the card is issued to you. After that, you’ll start repaying in manageable monthly installments.
Q4: Can I use the card for personal expenses?
No. The card is strictly for business-related transactions. The system is made to block any non-business spending.
Q5: My business is new. Can I still apply?
Absolutely! The scheme is designed for both existing businesses and promising new startups. You can find feasibility study templates on the PSIC and Bank of Punjab websites to strengthen your application.
Last Words: Is the Asaan Karobar Card Right for You?
The Asaan Karobar Card is a powerful initiative for any small business owner in Punjab. With its zero-interest model, digital ease, and substantial credit limit, it effectively removes the biggest hurdle for many entrepreneurs: access to capital.
If you have a viable business idea or an existing venture that needs a financial boost, this is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss. It represents a significant step towards financial inclusion and economic empowerment, aligning with the goals of other impactful schemes like the Maryam Nawaz Loan Scheme.
Take the first step today. Visit the official portal, check your eligibility, and apply online to start your business dreams!
