Introduction
In the modern era of international trade, digital compliance and real-time reporting are vital. Pakistan has implemented the Electronic Import Form (EIF) system as part of its effort to streamline import procedures, ensure accurate foreign exchange reporting, and curb trade-based money laundering. The EIF is a mandatory document required for all import transactions involving foreign exchange, linking importers, authorized dealers (banks), and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
This detailed guide explains the EIF process in Pakistan, its legal requirements, step-by-step filing procedure, roles of importers and banks, and best practices to ensure error-free compliance.
1. What is the Electronic Import Form (EIF)?
The Electronic Import Form (EIF) is a digitally submitted declaration by importers through authorized banks to inform the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) about impending foreign currency payments for imports. It is a precondition for filing Goods Declaration (GD) in the Pakistan Customs WeBOC system and is used to track:
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Source of foreign exchange
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Purpose of remittance
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Compliance with import regulations
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Alignment with trade documentation
2. Legal Framework
The EIF is enforced under the following laws and circulars:
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Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA), 1947
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SBP Foreign Exchange Manual – Chapter 12 (Imports)
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SBP Circular No. 7 of 2017
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Pakistan Customs Act, 1969
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WeBOC System Regulations
3. Why is the EIF Required?
The EIF ensures:
✅ Transparent reporting of foreign payments
✅ Monitoring of foreign exchange outflows
✅ Compliance with import policy and trade regulations
✅ Prevention of trade-based money laundering
✅ Linkage between bank transactions and customs clearance
Without a valid EIF, customs clearance of imported goods is not permitted.
4. Who Needs to File an EIF?
An EIF is required by:
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All commercial importers making foreign exchange payments
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Businesses importing goods under open account, advance payment, or letter of credit (LC)
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Companies using third-party payment arrangements
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Non-residents remitting funds for import of goods into Pakistan
5. Stakeholders in the EIF Process
| Stakeholder | Role |
|---|---|
| Importer | Initiates EIF and submits documentation |
| Authorized Dealer (Bank) | Reviews EIF, verifies compliance, and forwards to SBP |
| State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) | Monitors foreign exchange disbursement and policy adherence |
| Pakistan Customs (WeBOC) | Validates EIF before allowing GD clearance |
6. Types of Transactions Requiring EIF
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Letter of Credit (LC) based imports
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Advance payment imports
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Imports under contracts / open account
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Third-party payments
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Imports under supplier’s credit
7. Step-by-Step EIF Filing Process
Step 1: Register Your Business with Bank
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Ensure your business has a valid NTN, Chamber registration, and Import registration certificate (NTN-STRN)
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Set up foreign currency arrangements with your authorized bank
Step 2: Submit Import Contract or Proforma Invoice
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Must include:
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Full description of goods
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Quantity and value
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Terms of trade (Incoterms)
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Payment method and schedule
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Step 3: File EIF Through Authorized Bank Portal
Your bank will guide you to upload the EIF application with:
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Import contract/invoice
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CNIC of authorized signatory
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HS Code (PCT) of goods
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Port of clearance
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Expected date of arrival
Step 4: Bank Reviews and Submits to SBP
Bank verifies:
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Compliance with SBP foreign exchange policy
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Validity of documents
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Correct PCT codes and declarations
Step 5: EIF Number Generated and Shared
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Once approved, an EIF number is generated
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This number is required to file Goods Declaration (GD) in WeBOC
Step 6: Use EIF in Customs Clearance
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File GD in WeBOC using the same EIF number
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Customs verifies EIF status before allowing assessment
8. Documents Required for EIF Filing
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice / Contract | Trade terms and value declaration |
| Bill of Lading (BL) / AWB | Shipment and port information |
| Importer NTN Certificate | Tax registration verification |
| CNIC of Director/Authorized Person | Identity verification |
| Import License / Registration (if any) | Sector-specific permission |
9. EIF and WeBOC: How the Systems Connect
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EIF is validated through Pakistan Single Window (PSW) or WeBOC platform
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GD cannot be filed unless EIF status is “Approved”
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WeBOC pulls real-time EIF data from banks and SBP system
10. Scenarios and Special Cases
A. Advance Payment Imports
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EIF must be filed before sending advance payment
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Must be backed by proforma invoice
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Evidence of shipment must be submitted within 120 days
B. Imports Under Letter of Credit
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LC establishment and EIF are synchronized via bank portal
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EIF number is included in shipping documents and GD
C. Imports Under Supplier’s Credit
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Requires SBP approval
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EIF includes details of credit terms and interest
D. Imports by Freelancers or Small Businesses
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EIF applies if foreign payment is involved
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Some low-value imports may qualify for simplified EIF
11. Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Result |
|---|---|
| Filing EIF with incorrect HS Code | Delays in customs clearance |
| Submitting EIF after shipment arrival | Non-compliance; possible fines |
| Using wrong port/location in EIF | GD rejection by WeBOC |
| Mismatch in invoice vs. EIF declaration | Triggers compliance flags or audits |
| No EIF filed for advance payment | Customs may block GD clearance |
12. Penalties for EIF Non-Compliance
Violations of EIF or FERA may lead to:
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Delayed clearance
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Customs audit or investigation
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Show-cause notices by FBR or SBP
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Penalties up to 3x transaction value
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Blacklisting by Customs or SBP
13. Tips for Smooth EIF Processing
✅ Coordinate closely with your bank’s trade team
✅ Match PCT codes with actual goods and invoices
✅ File EIF before shipment arrives in Pakistan
✅ Use reliable freight forwarders who understand EIF linkage
✅ Keep scanned records of all supporting documents
✅ Hire a customs or trade consultant for high-value consignments
14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is EIF required for all imports?
Yes, for all imports involving foreign exchange payments through banks.
Q2: Can I file EIF myself?
EIF is filed through authorized dealers (banks). Importers provide documents; banks initiate the filing.
Q3: How long is an EIF valid?
Typically 120 days from approval. Must match shipment arrival.
Q4: Is EIF needed for duty-free imports or aid shipments?
Depends on exemption classification. Some may be exempt but still require EIF for tracking.
Q5: Can EIF be amended after approval?
Only in specific cases and through bank intervention with SBP’s permission.
15. How Sterling.pk Can Assist
At Sterling.pk, we offer complete trade compliance support:
✅ Preparing EIF documentation
✅ Liaising with banks for EIF approval
✅ PCT code classification and customs planning
✅ Coordinating GD filing with EIF linkage
✅ Helping small businesses and new importers navigate EIF requirements
✅ Resolving mismatches and customs delays
Let our experts manage your trade compliance while you focus on your business.
Conclusion
The Electronic Import Form (EIF) is a critical part of Pakistan’s import compliance ecosystem. By linking foreign payments to customs declarations, it promotes transparency and protects against financial fraud. Every importer must understand its importance, file it accurately through their authorized bank, and ensure proper documentation.
Mistakes in EIF filing can result in delays, penalties, or even shipment seizure. Don’t risk your investment—partner with compliance experts like Sterling.pk to ensure a smooth import journey from payment to port clearance.
