Web-Based One Customs (WeBOC) is an online platform developed by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in collaboration with Pakistan Revenue Automation (Pvt.) Ltd. (PRAL). It is designed to automate and streamline the customs clearance process for import and export activities in Pakistan. By digitizing these processes, WeBOC reduces manual paperwork, minimizes errors, and increases efficiency, ensuring greater transparency in trade operations. This automation not only accelerates the clearance process but also helps combat corruption by reducing human intervention.
Why is WeBOC Registration Important?
WeBOC registration is mandatory for individuals and businesses involved in import and export activities. It allows users to electronically file Goods Declarations (GD), track shipments, and comply with regulatory requirements without physical documentation. This system improves the overall efficiency of customs operations, ensuring smooth and timely clearance of goods. Businesses benefit from reduced processing times, fewer delays, and better compliance with international trade regulations.
The WeBOC Registration Process
The registration process varies based on the type of business entity. The three main categories for registration are sole proprietorships, partnership firms, and private limited companies. Each category has specific documentation requirements and procedures that must be followed for successful registration.
Sole Proprietorship Registration
Required Documents:
For sole proprietors, the registration process is straightforward but requires several essential documents:
- Original CNIC of the proprietor with NADRA verification.
- National Tax Number (NTN) and Sales Tax Registration Number (STRN) certificates issued by FBR.
- Proof of business premises, such as ownership documents or a rent agreement, accompanied by the landlord’s CNIC copy.
- A valid membership certificate from the relevant Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
- Evidence of Active Taxpayer List (ATL) status for both income tax and sales tax.
- Recent utility bill for the business premises.
- An undertaking on Rs. 100/- stamp paper as per the prescribed format.
- A completed WeBOC registration form.
- Bank maintenance certificate and a six-month bank statement for the business account.
- Payment receipt of Rs. 500/- as registration fees, deposited in the prescribed bank.
- Personal appearance with a business visiting card.
- Request letter for issuance of a WeBOC ID, written on official letterhead.
Procedure:
The sole proprietorship registration begins by gathering all necessary documents. The application, along with the documents, must be submitted to the Deputy/Assistant Collector at the WeBOC User-ID Section of the relevant Customs House. After submission, the authorities verify the provided documents and may conduct a physical inspection of the business premises. Following successful verification, the applicant deposits Rs. 500/- through the designated bank challan. Upon completing these steps, a WeBOC user ID and password are issued and sent to the registered email.
Partnership Firm Registration
Required Documents:
For partnership firms, WeBOC registration requires documents from all partners, including:
- Original CNICs of all partners with NADRA verification.
- NTN and STRN certificates.
- Original partnership deed and Form C.
- Proof of business premises, such as ownership documents or a rent agreement, with the landlord’s CNIC.
- A valid membership certificate from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
- ATL status for income tax and sales tax.
- Undertaking on Rs. 100/- stamp paper in the prescribed format.
- Completed WeBOC registration form.
- Bank maintenance certificate and a six-month bank statement.
- Payment receipt of Rs. 500/- as registration fees.
- Personal appearance of one partner with a visiting card.
- Request letter for WeBOC ID issuance on official letterhead.
- Authority letter on Rs. 100/- stamp paper, signed by other partners, authorizing the applicant.
Procedure:
The application, with all relevant documents, must be submitted to the WeBOC User-ID Section of the appropriate Customs House. Verification of the documents follows, and authorities may inspect the business premises. Upon successful verification and fee payment, a WeBOC user ID is issued. This ID is sent to the registered email address, allowing the partnership to begin customs clearance activities.
Private Limited Company Registration
Required Documents:
Private limited companies must provide the following documentation for WeBOC registration:
- Original CNICs of all directors with NADRA verification.
- Income Tax Registration and Sales Tax Registration certificates from FBR.
- Certificate of Incorporation from the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
- Proof of business premises, such as ownership documents or a rent agreement, with the landlord’s CNIC.
- Chamber of Commerce membership certificate.
- ATL status for income and sales tax.
- Bank statement for the last six months and a maintenance certificate.
- Rs. 500/- registration fee deposit receipt.
- Request letter for WeBOC ID issuance on company letterhead.
Procedure:
The process for private limited companies follows a similar pattern to other entities. After collecting the necessary documents, the company submits its application to the relevant Customs House for verification. If all documents are in order and the premises pass inspection, the company deposits the registration fee. A WeBOC user ID and password are then provided, allowing the company to engage in import and export operations.
Conclusion
WeBOC registration plays a crucial role in simplifying and accelerating trade processes in Pakistan. By digitizing customs operations, it reduces manual errors, enhances transparency, and ensures compliance with national and international regulations. Whether you are a sole proprietor, part of a partnership, or managing a private limited company, following the WeBOC registration process is essential for smooth and efficient trading activities.
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