Asaan Karobar Scheme 2026: Eligibility, Loan Amount & Online Apply
Quick Answer
The Asaan Karobar Scheme is an interest free (0% markup) business loan program by the Government of Punjab, run through the Bank of Punjab. Eligible Punjab residents can get financing from around Rs. 1 million up to Rs. 30 million to start or grow a business. You apply online with your CNIC, you must be an active FBR tax filer, and selected applicants repay in easy monthly installments over up to 5 years.
High electricity bills, rising rents and costly bank markup make it hard for small business owners in Punjab to grow. The Asaan Karobar Scheme is the Punjab government’s answer to this problem. This guide explains in plain language who can apply, how much loan you can get, what documents you need, and exactly how to apply online without paying any agent.
What is the Asaan Karobar Scheme?
The Asaan Karobar Scheme, also called the Asaan Karobar Finance Scheme, is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of Punjab under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. It gives small and medium business owners access to interest free loans so they can start a new venture or expand an existing one.
The scheme is implemented by the Bank of Punjab (BOP). Unlike a normal bank loan, there is no interest or markup for the borrower. The government covers the markup, so you only repay the actual amount you borrowed in monthly installments.
Asaan Karobar Card vs Finance loan: which one is for you?
The scheme is offered in tiers so that both very small shopkeepers and larger businesses can apply. The figures below are widely reported for the 2026 cycle, but always confirm the current tier limits on the official portal before applying.
In short: the Card works like a digital business card for daily expenses and supplier payments, while the Finance tiers send a larger loan into your bank account for bigger plans.
Asaan Karobar Scheme eligibility criteria 2026
You should meet the following conditions before you apply. Eligibility details can be updated each phase, so treat this as a practical checklist and verify on the official portal.
New startups can also apply with a strong, realistic business plan. Women entrepreneurs, freelancers and skilled workers starting their own setup are encouraged to apply.
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Documents required for Asaan Karobar Scheme
Keep clear scans or photos of these ready before you start the form. A missing document is the most common reason applications get delayed.
- Valid CNIC (front and back) that is not expired.
- Proof of business premises, such as a rent agreement, registry or transfer letter.
- FBR active filer proof and NTN.
- A short, realistic business plan or feasibility, with income and expense details.
- Recent bank statements.
- Name, CNIC and mobile number of two references who are not blood relatives.
How to apply for the Asaan Karobar Scheme online
The whole process is digital so you do not need an agent. Follow these steps:
- Applications submitted digitally via PITB portal.
- Non-refundable processing fee: PKR 500
- Digital verification of CNIC, creditworthiness and business premises conducted by authorized agencies.
- Create your account using your CNIC and a mobile number registered in your own name.
- Choose your option: Asaan Karobar Card, Finance Tier 1 or Finance Tier 2.
- Fill in your personal details, business location, nature of business and the loan amount you need.
- Upload your documents and pay the non refundable processing fee for your chosen tier.
- Submit the form and save your tracking ID so you can check your application status later.
Processing fee, repayment and grace period
There is a small, non refundable processing fee at the time of application. Reported amounts for the 2026 cycle are around Rs. 500 for the Card, Rs. 5,000 for Finance Tier 1 and Rs. 10,000 for Finance Tier 2. Confirm the exact fee on the official portal.
- The loan itself carries 0% interest for the borrower.
- Repayment is in equal monthly installments, generally over a period of up to 5 years.
- New startups usually get a grace period before installments begin (reported up to 6 months); existing businesses get a shorter grace period.
- For the Asaan Karobar Card, funds are released in stages and can only be used for business purposes through POS or the app.
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How long does approval take?
After you submit, the Bank of Punjab verifies your CNIC, credit history and documents and reviews your business plan. A physical site visit may be done for larger loans. If everything is complete, approval and disbursement usually take a few weeks. A vague business plan or a missing document is what slows most files down.
Avoid scams
The Asaan Karobar Scheme is free to apply for online. No one can guarantee your approval for a fee. Never pay an agent, never share your CNIC or OTP with strangers, and only use the official Punjab government portal. For genuine help you can use the Punjab government helpline 1786.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Asaan Karobar loan really interest free?
Yes. The borrower pays 0% interest. The Punjab government covers the markup, so you only repay the amount you borrowed plus a small one time processing fee.
Can a new business apply, or only existing ones?
Both can apply. New startups need a strong, realistic business plan or feasibility, while existing businesses provide their trading record.
Can women and freelancers apply for the Asaan Karobar Scheme?
Yes. Women entrepreneurs, home based businesses, freelancers and online sellers are all encouraged to apply if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Do I need to be an FBR tax filer?
Yes. Applicants are generally required to be active FBR tax filers with a valid NTN. Check your filer status before applying.
What is the last date to apply?
Application windows open in phases. There is no single fixed last date, so check the official portal regularly because deadlines are often extended or reopened.
Final Words
The Asaan Karobar Scheme 2026 is one of the most useful programs for anyone in Punjab who wants to start or grow a business without the burden of heavy bank interest. If you are a Punjab resident, an active tax filer and have a clear business idea, prepare your documents, apply online through the official portal, and keep your tracking ID safe. Apply early in each phase, avoid agents, and rely only on official sources for updates.
