Are you an entrepreneur in Punjab looking to scale your business but struggling to access affordable financing? The Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme 2025 is here to provide a lifeline for small entrepreneurs with interest-free loans of up to PKR 1 million. Designed to foster growth and support small-scale businesses in Punjab, this scheme is an innovative and empowering initiative for financial inclusion and business sustainability.

If you’re wondering how to register and make the most of this scheme, keep reading. This detailed guide walks you through an overview of the program, its features, eligibility criteria, application process, and much more.

What Is the Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme?

The Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme is a government-led initiative aimed at empowering small entrepreneurs (SEs) in Punjab. Through the issuance of a digital SME card, the scheme allows access to an interest-free revolving credit facility of up to PKR 1 million. Its primary aim is to help SEs establish, sustain, and grow their businesses while ensuring transparent and structured usage of funds through digital channels such as mobile apps and POS systems.

Key Benefits of the Scheme:

  • Avoid high-interest loans by availing 0% interest on credit.
  • Convenient loan usage for business-related expenses through digital platforms.
  • Access to a structured, transparent financial process for SMEs.

Key Features of the Scheme

Understanding its features will help you take full advantage of the Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme:

  • Maximum Loan Limit: Up to PKR 1 million.
  • Loan Tenure: 3 years, including the repayment timeline.
  • Loan Type: Revolving credit facility valid for 12 months.
  • Repayment Term: Equal Monthly Installments (EMIs) over 2 years after the first year.
  • Grace Period: 3 months granted from the card issuance date before repayment begins.
  • Fund Usage:
  • Vendor and supplier payments.
  • Payment of utility bills, government fees, and taxes.
  • Cash withdrawal up to 25% of the loan limit for miscellaneous business expenses.
  • Digital transactions through POS and mobile apps.
  • End-User Interest Rate: Completely interest-free.

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, ensure you meet the following criteria to access the scheme:

  • Who Can Apply:
  • Small Entrepreneurs (SEs) located in Punjab.
  • Age Range: 21 to 57 years.
  • Valid CNIC with the mobile number registered in the applicant’s name.
  • Existing or planned businesses within Punjab.
  • Other Requirements:
  • Must be a Pakistani national residing in Punjab.
  • Clean credit history with no overdue loans or defaults.
  • Pass a satisfactory credit and psychometric assessment.
  • One application allowed per individual or business.
  • Digital registration with PRA/FBR for verified business operations.

If you meet these points, you’re eligible to proceed with the application!

How to Apply for the Loan Scheme

The application process for the Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme has been simplified for ease of access. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Submit Application:
  • Apply digitally via the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) portal.
  • Pay a non-refundable processing fee of PKR 500.
  1. Verification:
  • Digital verification of your CNIC, business premises, and creditworthiness will be conducted by authorized agencies.
  1. Card Issuance:
  • Upon approval, you’ll receive the SME card through which your funds will be made available.

Loan Usage and Repayment Details

Here’s how the scheme facilitates fund utilization and outlines the repayment procedure:

  • Initial 50% Limit:
  • Available within the first six months for business use.
  • Ensure regular repayment and satisfactory usage of this amount.
  • Grace Period:
  • A 3-month grace period after the card issuance offers repayment flexibility.
  • Remaining 50%:
  • Released based on compliance with the fund’s purpose and successful registration with PRA/FBR.
  • Repayment Plan:
  • Following the first year, repay the loan via equal monthly installments over two years. Note that a minimum of 5% of the loan balance must be paid monthly during the 12-month revolving period.

Charges and Additional Fees

While the loans are interest-free, specific charges may be applicable:

  • Annual Card Fee:
  • PKR 25,000 + FED, deducted from the approved loan limit.
  • Other Charges:
  • Life assurance, card issuance, and delivery charges are covered by the scheme.
  • Late Payment Charges:
  • Penalty fees apply based on the Bank’s Policy/Schedule of Charges in case of late installments.

Key Conditions You Should Know

Here are some important conditions associated with the loan scheme:

  1. Funds can only be used for core business activities. Non-business transactions, such as personal or entertainment-related purchases, will be blocked.
  2. Registration with PRA/FBR is mandatory within six months of receiving the card.
  3. Only one application per individual or business is allowed.

Additional Support for Applicants

To assist applicants, the scheme offers several resources:

  • Feasibility studies for startups are available on the PSIC and Bank of Punjab websites.
  • A dedicated helpline (1786) has been set up to answer any questions or provide further details.

The Asaan Karobar Card Loan Scheme 2025 is an incredible opportunity for entrepreneurs in Punjab to gain financial independence and grow their businesses. With interest-free loans, ease of access through digital channels, and structured repayments, you can focus on what really matters elevating your business to new heights.

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