The scheme offers interest-free loans of up to PKR 1 million through a digital SME card. It supports small entrepreneurs in Punjab to grow and sustain their businesses, ensuring structured through Digital Channels (e.g. Mobile App, POS etc.) and transparent utilization of funds. The program is called “Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme” and was recently approved by the Punjab government.
Table of Contents
Key Features
- Maximum Limit: PKR 1 million
- Tenure of Loan: 03 Years
- Loan Type: Revolving credit facility for 12 months
- Repayment Term: 24 equal monthly installments after the first year
- Grace Period: 3 months from card issuance for repayment commencement
- Usage:
- Vendor and supplier payments
- Utility bills, government fees, and taxes
- Cash withdrawal (up to 25% of the limit) for miscellaneous business purposes
- Digital transactions through POS and mobile app
- End-User Interest Rate: 0%
Eligibility Criteria
- All Small Entrepreneurs (SEs) in Punjab
- Age: 21 to 57 years
- Pakistani National, resident in Punjab
- Valid CNIC and mobile number registered in the applicant’s name
- Existing or prospective business located in Punjab
- Satisfactory credit and psychometric assessment
- Only one application per individual and business
- Clean credit history with no overdue loans
Loan Usage and Repayment Details
- First 50% Limit: Available for use within the first 6 months
- Grace Period: 3 months after card issuance
- After 3 months, borrower shall start paying monthly installments, with a minimum monthly payment of 5% of the outstanding loan balance (principal portion only)
- Second 50% Limit: Released upon satisfactory usage, regular repayments and registration with PRA/FBR
- Funds are restricted to business-related purposes. Non-essential transactions (e.g. personal consumption, entertainment) are blocked
- The remaining balance after the first year is repaid over 2 years in Equal Monthly Installments (EMIs)
Charges / Fees:
- Annual Card Fee: PKR 25,000 + FED to be recovered from obligor’s approved limit
- Additional Charges: Life assurance, card issuance and delivery charges covered by the scheme
- In case of late payment of installments, late Payment Charges would be recovered as per Bank’s Policy / Schedule of Charges
Security Details:
- Personal guarantee digitally signed by the borrower
- Life assurance included in the portfolio
- Urban Unit conducts physical verification of business premises within 6 months of loan approval and annually thereafter
Key Conditions:
- Funds usage restricted to core business activities; non-business-related transactions are blocked
- Registration with PRA/FBR is mandatory within six months of card issuance.
- Applications are limited to one per individual/business
Additional Support for Applicant:
How to Apply Asaan Karobar Card Through akc.punjab.gov.pk
Follow these simple steps to apply for the Asaan Karobar Card:
- Visit the official website: akc.punjab.gov.pk.
- Fill out the online application form with accurate personal and business details.
- Pay a non-refundable processing fee of PKR 500.
- Upload required documents, including your CNIC and proof of residence.
- Digital verification of your CNIC, business premises, and creditworthiness will be conducted by authorized agencies.
- Upon approval, your Asaan Karobar Card will be issued for use in business-related transactions.
For any queries or assistance, contact the helpline at 1786.
Also Read: CM Punjab Laptop Scheme 2025: Who Can Apply & Offline Registration Process
How to Register for the Asaan Karobar Card
Follow these straightforward steps to register for the Asaan Karobar Card:
Step 1: Access the Official Portal
Open your web browser and navigate to akc.punjab.gov.pk. Once on the homepage, click the “Register Now” option.
Step 2: Complete the Registration Form
- Provide Personal Details:
- Enter your full name as per your CNIC.
- Input your CNIC number.
- Specify your date of birth (as mentioned on your CNIC).
- Enter your father’s or husband’s name.
- Fill in the CNIC issuance and expiry dates.
- Add Contact Information:
- Provide a valid mobile number and select your mobile network.
- Ensure the mobile number is active for receiving confirmation and updates.
- Set Up a Password:
- Create a strong password for your account.
- Re-enter the password to confirm it, ensuring both entries match.
Step 3: Review and Submit
Carefully check all the information entered to ensure accuracy. Once verified, click the “Register” button. Upon successful registration, you will receive a confirmation message on your mobile phone.
How to Log In to Your Asaan Karobar Card Account
Once you’ve completed your registration, logging in to your account is quick and easy. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Login Page
Go to akc.punjab.gov.pk and click on the “Login” option.
Step 2: Provide Your Credentials
- Enter your CNIC number.
- Input the password you created during registration.
Step 3: Access Your Dashboard
Click the “Login” button to log in. You will be redirected to your dashboard, where you can explore all the available services under the Asaan Karobar Card program.
Tips for a Smooth Login Experience
- Ensure the information entered matches your registered details.
- Use a stable internet connection to avoid interruptions.
- Keep your password secure and do not share it with anyone.
About the Asaan Karobar Card Program
The CM Punjab Asaan Karobar Card is a game-changing initiative designed to provide much-needed financial support to small businesses in Punjab. With interest-free loans of up to PKR 1 million, this program allows entrepreneurs to overcome financial barriers and focus on business growth. The revolving credit facility and easy repayment options make it a practical solution for SMEs aiming to expand or stabilize their operations. The program is a testament to the Punjab government’s commitment to promoting entrepreneurship and boosting the economy.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Asaan Karobar Card, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a Pakistani national and a resident of Punjab.
- Be aged between 21 and 57 years.
- Possess a valid CNIC and a registered mobile number.
- Own or plan a business located in Punjab.
- Have a clean credit history with no overdue loans.
- Pass psychometric and credit assessments conducted by authorized agencies.
- Register the business with PRA/FBR within six months of receiving the card.
- Only one application is allowed per individual or business.
These criteria ensure that the scheme is accessible to genuine small business owners in need of financial assistance.
Loan Usage and Repayment Details
The Asaan Karobar Card offers flexibility in loan usage and repayment:
- First 50% of Loan: Accessible within the first six months after approval.
- Grace Period: Borrowers enjoy a three-month grace period before repayment begins.
- Monthly Installments: Repayment starts with a minimum payment of 5% of the outstanding loan balance per month.
- Second 50% of Loan: Released upon satisfactory usage and timely repayment of the first half.
- Equal Monthly Installments (EMIs): The remaining balance is repaid over 24 months after the first year.
Funds can be used for vendor payments, utility bills, government fees, and other business-related expenses. Personal or non-business-related transactions are strictly prohibited.
Charges and Fees
The Asaan Karobar Card comes with minimal charges to ensure affordability for entrepreneurs:
- Annual Card Fee: PKR 25,000 + FED, deducted from the approved loan limit.
- Additional Charges: Includes life assurance, card issuance, and delivery costs.
- Late Payment Penalty: Applied as per the bank’s policy for delayed installments.
These charges ensure the sustainability of the program while providing maximum benefits to small businesses.
How to Check Your Asaan Karobar Loan Application Status
If you have applied for the Asaan Karobar Loan, you can track your application status through multiple methods. The official tracking system allows both domestic and expatriate applicants to check updates easily. To get started, visit the official website and log in with your registered details. Your application status will show as “Approved” or “Under Review.”
Ways to Track Your Asaan Karobar Application
You can check your loan application status through the following methods:
- Online Portal: Log in to your account to see real-time updates. If additional documents are required, upload them under the “Uploads” section.
- SMS Service: Send “STATUS [Application ID]” to 8300 to receive a quick update via SMS.
- Helpline Support: Call 051-9053333 (toll-free within Pakistan) or +92-51-9053333 (for international queries) to speak with a representative. They can assist with status updates and eligibility verification.
- In-Person Inquiry: Visit any National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) branch with your CNIC to check your application status.
What to Do If Your Application is Delayed
If your status appears incorrect or your application is still pending:
- Double-check using at least two tracking methods.
- Upload missing documents through the portal under the “Uploads” section.
- Ensure all details match your NADRA records to prevent processing delays.
- Contact support with your reference number for further assistance.
By regularly checking your status, you can stay updated on your loan approval timeline and quickly resolve any issues to avoid unnecessary delays.