Asaan Karobar Scheme 2026: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Loan Details & Status Check
📌 KEY FACTS — Asaan Karobar Scheme 2026
Quick Overview of Asaan Karobar Scheme
The Government of Punjab launched the Asaan Karobar Scheme under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif in 2025, and the program continues into 2026 with active applications. It is the Punjab government’s interest-free business loan programme for small and medium entrepreneurs. It helps small business owners and new entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses by providing them loans, similar to the CM Punjab E-Taxi Scheme.
It is a CM Punjab program that gives business loan, and not a cash transfer program like the Benazir Income Support Programme. This scheme offers interest-free loans through a digital card called the SME Card. The main goal of this program is to support small and medium enterprises, increase the employment rate, and help people build stable income sources.
It gives you access to financing through the Bank of Punjab without the collateral and paperwork that normally keep small business owners away from commercial banks. The smaller tier — the Asaan Karobar Card — gives up to Rs. 1 million at 0% interest through a digital SME card. A larger tier, Asaan Karobar Finance, offers Rs. 1 million up to Rs. 3 crore for established businesses at a subsidised markup.
Applications are open now at akc.punjab.gov.pk, managed technically by the Punjab Information Technology Board and financially by the Bank of Punjab. As of the latest confirmed government figures, the combined Asaan Karobar Card and Finance schemes have supported 108,371 businesses with Rs. 70 billion disbursed in their first six months. There is no fixed closing date announced, but the scheme runs against an allocated budget, so applying earlier improves your chances.
Key Features of Asaan Karobar Scheme
Asaan Karobar Scheme gives interest-free financing, easy repayment, and digital control. It also ensures transparency through mobile apps and point of sale (POS) systems.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Asaan Karobar Scheme (Card + Finance Tiers) |
| Launched By | Government of Punjab — CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif |
| Launch Date | January 16, 2025 |
| Banking Partner | Bank of Punjab (BOP) |
| Portal Managed By | Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) |
| Official Portal | akc.punjab.gov.pk |
| Target Audience | Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), startups, and young entrepreneurs |
| SME Card Loan Range | Rs. 100,000 to Rs. 1 million (10 Lac) |
| Asaan Karobar Finance Range | Rs. 1 million to Rs. 30 million (3 Crore) |
| Interest Rate | 0% for the SME Card; subsidised markup for higher Finance tiers |
| Loan Type | Revolving credit facility for 12 months |
| Loan Tenure | Up to 3 years for SME Card / up to 5 years for higher Finance tiers |
| Grace Period | 3 months for SME Card / up to 6 months for startups |
| Repayment Plan | 24 equal monthly installments after the first year |
| Security Requirement | Personal guarantee for small loans / collateral for higher loans |
| Usage of Funds | Vendor payments, utility bills, taxes, and other business expenses |
| Cash Withdrawal | Up to 25% of the total approved limit |
| Digital Access | Mobile app and POS system transactions |
| Age Requirement | 21 to 57 years |
| Residency | Punjab only |
| Processing Fee | Rs. 500 (non-refundable, paid at registration) |
| Bank of Punjab Helpline | 1786 (free, 24/7) |
| Scheme Budget | Rs. 48 billion allocation, including Rs. 8.5 billion subsidy budget |
What Is the Asaan Karobar Scheme and How Does It Work?
The Asaan Karobar Scheme is a Punjab government business loan, not a cash transfer or welfare payment. It uses a digital SME Card for smaller amounts and a direct finance facility for larger amounts, both funded through the Bank of Punjab and repaid in instalments.
Unlike BISP or PSER-linked schemes, which exist to support low-income households, the Asaan Karobar Scheme exists to support economic activity — it funds a business, not a family’s basic needs. Your eligibility depends on your credit history, your business plan, and a psychometric assessment, not on a poverty score. The government absorbs the bank’s commercial interest cost so the end borrower pays 0% on the SME Card tier.
It is an umbrella term covering two related products: the Asaan Karobar Card (a revolving digital credit limit up to Rs. 1 million, aimed at startups and small shopkeepers) and Asaan Karobar Finance (a larger term loan from Rs. 1 million to Rs. 3 crore, aimed at established small and medium enterprises). The government has also rolled out regional variants — separate Asaan Karobar schemes for North, Central, and South Punjab — and an Asaan Karobar and Export Finance facility offering up to Rs. 50 million specifically for exporting SMEs.
Do Not Confuse Asaan Karobar With These Similarly Named Schemes
Parwaz Card — This is for Punjab residents who already have a confirmed overseas job offer. It covers pre-departure costs like visa fees, airfare, and medical tests. It has nothing to do with starting a business inside Pakistan, and it is managed separately from Asaan Karobar despite both running through Bank of Punjab financing structures.
PSIC Women’s Interest-Free Loan (Rs. 500 million fund) — Approved separately by the Punjab Small Industries Corporation board, this gives women entrepreneurs and artisans Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 10 million. It is a distinct programme from Asaan Karobar, run by a different Punjab department, though both are interest-free and both target small business owners.
Kisan Card — This is for registered farmers and covers agricultural inputs like seeds and fertiliser. It is linked to PSER, unlike Asaan Karobar, which is not PSER-linked at all.
If your business idea does not fit Asaan Karobar’s criteria, one of these related schemes may be a better fit — check the comparison table further down this guide.
Do You Need PSER Registration to Apply?
No. The Asaan Karobar Scheme does not require PSER (Punjab Socio-Economic Registry) registration. Your approval depends entirely on your credit history, business documentation, and a psychometric assessment carried out by the Bank of Punjab.
Do I need PSER for Asaan Karobar?
This is a common point of confusion because several other CM Punjab schemes — the Rashan Card, Himmat Card, and Kisan Card among them — do run through the PSER poverty database. Asaan Karobar is different: it is a creditworthiness-based commercial lending scheme, not a poverty-targeted welfare scheme, so a PSER PMT score plays no role in your application. You can apply directly at akc.punjab.gov.pk with just your CNIC, business details, and required documents.
Eligibility Criteria
Before you apply, you must check if you meet the basic requirements for the Asaan Karobar Scheme. The government sets simple rules so only serious applicants apply. You must be a Pakistani national aged 21 to 57, resident in Punjab, with a valid NADRA CNIC, a mobile number registered in your own name, and either an existing or planned business located within Punjab.
Who can Apply?
Age Limit
21 to 57 Years
Nationality
Pakistani
Residency
Punjab
CNIC
Valid NADRA CNIC
Mobile
Registered on CNIC
Business
Existing/New in Punjab
Basic eligibility
Business & Financial Requirements
Additional Requirements
SME definition (per State Bank of Pakistan):
The scheme follows the State Bank of Pakistan’s SME classification: a Small Enterprise has annual sales up to Rs. 150 million, and a Medium Enterprise has annual sales between Rs. 150 million and Rs. 800 million. New entrepreneurs with no existing business can still apply for Tier 1 start-up financing — you do not need an already-running business to qualify for the SME Card. The scheme follows the rules of the State Bank of Pakistan:
Common Reasons for Application Rejection
Many people face rejection due to simple mistakes. The Asaan Karobar Scheme checks your details carefully and deeply. Even a small error can cause rejection.
Incomplete or unclear documents
A missing CNIC copy, business proof, or blurry upload is the single most common rejection cause. Re-scan documents in good lighting and upload as PDF where possible.
Wrong or fake information
Incorrect details can lead to instant rejection
Mobile number not registered under your own CNIC
The system checks SIM ownership automatically. If the SIM is registered to a spouse, parent, or sibling, visit a telecom service centre and transfer it into your own name before applying.
Poor or unpaid credit history
An existing unpaid loan anywhere in the banking system, even a small one, can trigger automatic rejection. Clear outstanding balances before you apply.
Weak or missing business plan (Tier 2/3)
For loans above Rs. 1 million, a vague or incomplete business plan is a frequent rejection reason. Clearly state what the business does, who it sells to, and exactly how the loan will be used.
No FBR or PRA tax registration
Failing to register for an NTN before or shortly after applying slows or blocks approval, since tax registration is a condition of the scheme.
You can also Check Eligibility Status for BISP using your CNIC.
Tips for a Successful Application and Avoiding Rejection
Check Eligibility First
Make sure you meet all conditions before applying. This saves time and avoids rejection.
Prepare Documents
Keep your CNIC, mobile number, and business papers ready. A valid CNIC must be issued by NADRA.
Complete Tax Registration
Complete FBR or PRA tax registration early rather than waiting until after card issuance
Track Your Application
Log in to the portal regularly. Check updates and upload documents if needed.
What is Loan Amount in Asaan Karobar Scheme
The scheme has three financing tiers. The SME Card gives up to Rs. 1 million completely interest-free. Tier 2 and Tier 3 Asaan Karobar Finance loans go up to Rs. 3 crore at a subsidised, not zero, markup.
Audit correction: Several online guides, including an earlier version of this page, list the SME Card limit inconsistently as both “Rs. 1 Lac” and “up to Rs. 1 million” in different sections of the same article. The government’s own confirmed figure, verified against punjab.gov.pk and the Punjab Small Industries Corporation, is up to Rs. 1 million (10 Lac) for the SME Card. “Rs. 1 Lac” (Rs. 100,000) is the minimum starting amount for some applicants, not the ceiling.
The loan amount in the Asaan Karobar Scheme depends on your business size and needs. The scheme offers different categories or tiers.
Markup on higher tiers: the Government of Punjab pays the Bank of Punjab’s commercial rate — 6-month KIBOR plus 2.40% per annum — in full for the SME Card, so the borrower’s own rate is 0%. For Tier 2 and Tier 3 Asaan Karobar Finance, the subsidy covers only part of this rate, so the borrower pays a reduced, not zero, markup.
What documents do I need to apply for Asaan Karobar Scheme
Before starting your online application at akc.punjab.gov.pk, keep these documents ready to upload:
Note: All documents must be uploaded in clear, readable format (JPG or PDF). Blurry or incomplete uploads are a common reason for rejection.
How to Apply for Asaan Karobar Scheme
You can apply online in a simple way. The Asaan Karobar Scheme uses a digital system. You do not need to visit any office. You only need your CNIC, mobile number, and basic details.
Applications are submitted through the portal managed by the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB). You also need to pay a small processing fee of PKR 500. The system will verify your CNIC, credit history, and business details automatically.
Register Your Account
Go to akc.punjab.gov.pk only — this is the one official portal.
Enter your name, father’s or husband’s name, date of birth, and valid NADRA CNIC.
Add your mobile number registered on that same CNIC.
Create a password, and click Register.
Log in to Your Account
Use your CNIC and password to log in.
Your dashboard is where you complete every remaining step and later track your status.
Enter Personal Details
Fill in your address, education, work experience, and current employment status.
Click Save & Next after each section.
Add Business Details
Provide your business type and nature, business address, monthly sales or cost estimate, and number of employees.
Enter Loan Details
Select your required loan amount and the tier that matches your business need — SME Card for up to Rs. 1 million, or Asaan Karobar Finance for larger amounts.
Upload Required Documents
Upload your CNIC (front and back), bank statement, business proof, NTN certificate, and — for Tier 2/3 — your business plan. Submit and pay the Rs. 500 processing fee to complete registration.
Verification and Decision
The Bank of Punjab verifies your CNIC, credit history, and business documents, and conducts a psychometric assessment. This typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. You can track progress at any time by logging back in.
How to Check Your Asaan Karobar Application Status
You can check your application status and track your loans online in a few simple steps using your CNIC.
Common Status Meaning
| Status | What It Means | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Pending | Application is under review | Wait — review typically takes 4–6 weeks |
| Approved | Your loan is approved | Follow next steps shown on your dashboard |
| Rejected | Application not accepted | Dashboard shows the specific reason — fix and reapply |
| Requires Documents | A document is missing or unreadable | Log in and re-upload the flagged document |
Key Benefits of the Asaan Karobar Scheme
The Asaan Karobar Scheme gives strong support to new and small business owners. With Rs. 48 billion allocated budget and a fully digital application process, it targets skilled youth, women entrepreneurs, and SMEs across Punjab to build stable income sources and increase employment in the province.
Interest-Free Loans
You can get a loan from PKR 100,000 to PKR 1 million.
The loan comes with 0% interest.
This helps you avoid an extra debt burden and start a business with low risk.
Easy Repayment System
You can repay the loan in simple installments over 3 years.
You also get a 3-month grace period.
Business Support Usage
You can use the loan for daily business needs: Vendor payments, Utility bills, Equipment purchase and Business expansion.
Digital Access and Security
Funds work through digital banking systems like Bank of Punjab. You can use ATM and digital channels and Track transactions easily.
Target Beneficiaries of Asaan Karobar Scheme
The Asaan Karobar Scheme supports different types of people who want to start or grow a business in Punjab. It focuses on people with skills but limited capital.
Young Entrepreneurs
Women Founders
Freelance Workers
Skilled Labors Workers
Small Business Owners
Repayment, Fees and Charges — Full Breakdown
The SME Card gives a 3-month grace period, then repayment runs for roughly 33 monthly instalments. There is a Rs. 500 processing fee and a Rs. 25,000 plus FED annual card fee, with no other hidden charges.
| Charge | Amount |
|---|---|
| Processing Fee (one-time) | Rs. 500 |
| Annual Card Fee | Rs. 25,000 + FED (deducted from approved limit) |
| Late Payment Charge | Rs. 1 per Rs. 1,000 per day overdue |
| Handling Fee — new (greenfield) business | 0% — free |
| Handling Fee — existing (brownfield) business | 3% per annum |
| Market Pricing Benchmark | 6-month KIBOR + 2.40% per annum |
The Asaan Karobar Scheme uses a controlled and transparent funding system. It releases funds in stages.
How repayment is structured
Half of your approved SME Card limit is released in the first six months to help you start or stabilise the business. You get a 3-month grace period after card issuance before repayment begins. Once repayment starts, you pay a minimum of 5% of the remaining principal monthly. The second half of your loan releases only after you register with FBR or PRA and show proper fund usage. After the first year, the remaining balance is repaid in roughly equal monthly instalments over the following two years.
Debt Burden Ratio (DBR)
The Bank of Punjab limits your total loan repayment to a set share of your net income to protect you from over-borrowing: up to 40% of net income for Tier 1 and up to 50% for Tier 2.
Security and equity requirements
First 50% Loan Limit
You can use the first half of the loan within the first 6 months. This helps you start or stabilize your business early.
Grace Period
You get a 3-month grace period after card issuance. During this time, you do not repay the loan
Monthly Repayment Start
After 3 months, repayment begins. You pay a minimum of 5% monthly installment. This 5% applies only to the remaining principal amount.
Second 50% Loan Release
The remaining loan is released only when you register with Federal Board of Revenue or PRA, you use funds properly and repay regularly
Final Repayment Plan
After the first year remaining balance spreads over 2 year. Asaan Karobar Scheme uses a simple and fixed repayment plan. Borrowers pay equal monthly installments to manage cash flow easily in Punjab.
| Booking Date | First Payment Due Date |
|---|---|
| On or before 15th of the month | 1st of the following month |
| After 15th of the month | 1st of the month after next month |
Charges and Fees
AKC keeps everything transparent for borrowers in Punjab. All charges stay defined before and after loan approval. There are no hidden charges of any kind
Service Fees
Annual Card Fee
PKR 25,000 + FED
Late Payment
PKR 1 / 1000 / Day
Processing Fee
PKR 500
Handling Fees
Green Field Startups
0% (Free)
Brown Field (Existing)
3% P/A
DBR and Interest Pricing
The Asaan Karobar Scheme uses a Debt Burden Ratio (DBR) to check how much loan a person can safely repay every month. This rule protects borrowers from financial stress in Punjab.
Debt Burden Ratio
40-50% of Net Income
Tier 1: 40% Max | Tier 2: 50% Max DBR Allowed.
Market Pricing
6-Month KIBOR + 2.40%
Applied annually based on SBP market benchmarks.
Security Requirements
The Asaan Karobar Scheme follows strict security rules to reduce risk and ensure safe lending. These rules depend on loan tiers and business type in Punjab.
Tier 1 (T1)
Personal Guarantees
Net worth statement verified with Federal Board of Revenue preferred.
Tier 2 (T2)
Property Mortgage
Mortgage of residential, commercial, or industrial property required.
Commercial Vehicle Financing
Vehicle is registered in the name of Bank of Punjab. Minimum 25% equity contribution required. No grace period.
Equity Requirements
General T1
0% Share
General T2
20% Share
Women/PWD
10% Share
Asset Insurance Requirements for Loan Recipients
All financed assets must have full insurance coverage (Property, Leased assets, Pledged stocks). Borrower pays premium based on actual cost.
Bank of Punjab’s Role in Asaan Karobar Scheme
The Bank of Punjab manages the entire loan process from verification of CNIC and business details to final disbursement and repayment tracking
Verification
Disbursement
Support
1786
Official Helpline
24/7 Support
Asaan Karobar Scheme Progress
In its first six months, the combined Asaan Karobar Card and Finance schemes supported over 108,000 businesses with Rs. 70 billion disbursed, according to Government of Punjab figures.
Sector breakdown of Asaan Karobar Finance disbursement: agriculture received Rs. 40.3 billion, trade received Rs. 33.8 billion, transport received Rs. 4.27 billion, and manufacturing and other sectors received Rs. 6.3 billion.
Source: Government of Punjab official statement, punjab.gov.pk (confirmed figures, six-month progress report). These are the most recent officially released numbers as of this update; earlier figures circulating online — such as "185,000 applications" from the scheme's first month — are outdated and have been superseded by these confirmed totals.
Asaan Karobar vs Related Punjab Business and Loan Schemes
Several Punjab schemes offer financing for different purposes. Use this table to find the one that actually matches your situation before you apply.
| Scheme | Purpose | Amount | PSER Linked? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asaan Karobar Card/Finance | Start or grow a business in Punjab | Rs. 100,000 – Rs. 3 crore | No |
| Parwaz Card | Pre-departure costs for a confirmed overseas job offer | Varies by cost | No |
| PSIC Women's Loan Fund | Interest-free loans for women entrepreneurs and artisans | Rs. 500,000 – Rs. 10 million | No |
| Kisan Card | Agricultural inputs — seeds, fertiliser, equipment | Varies by landholding | Yes |
| Asaan Karobar Export Finance | Financing for exporting SMEs | Up to Rs. 50 million | No |
How to fix Asaan Karobar application problems?
My approval is taking longer than 6 weeks
Log in and check whether your dashboard shows "Requires Documents" — a pending document request is the most common cause of delay beyond the typical window. If everything shows complete, call 1786 with your CNIC and application date for a manual check.
I was rejected and want to reapply
Log in to akc.punjab.gov.pk and read the specific rejection reason on your dashboard. Fix only the flagged issue — there is no cooling-off period preventing a fresh application once the problem is resolved.
My loan is approved but the second disbursement hasn't arrived
The remaining half of your SME Card limit releases only after you complete FBR or PRA registration and demonstrate correct usage of the first half. Confirm your tax registration is active before contacting the helpline.
Someone is asking me to pay extra to guarantee approval
This is a scam. The only official payment is the Rs. 500 processing fee made on the portal itself. Report the contact to 1786 and do not share your CNIC or banking details with them.
