NBR eases online tax return filing for BD expatriates

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has simplified the online income tax return submission process for Bangladeshi expatriates by introducing a new system that allows them to receive one-time passwords (OTPs) via email instead of local mobile numbers.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, the NBR said the step was taken in response to requests from Bangladeshi citizens living abroad.

From the current tax year, the NBR has made online submission of tax returns mandatory for all categories of individual taxpayers, except senior citizens aged 65 or above and those who are physically challenged or specially abled.

Bangladeshi expatriates and foreign nationals working in Bangladesh are also required to file their income tax returns online. However, individuals exempted from the mandatory online filing requirement may still submit their returns electronically on a voluntary basis.

Many expatriate Bangladeshis are showing interest in using the system, even when it is not mandatory for them.

To register, expatriate taxpayers must send an email to ereturn@etaxnbr.gov.bd providing their passport number, national ID number, copy of visa seal, email address, and a recent photograph. Upon verification, they will receive an OTP and registration link in their email, which they can use to complete registration and submit their returns online.

While no documents need to be uploaded during e-return submission, taxpayers are required to retain all supporting documents - such as proof of income, expenditure, assets, and liabilities - for verification if necessary.

doulotakter11@gmail.com