The government of Pakistan has launched the Asaan Karobar Card and Finance Scheme to uplift small-scale businesses and empower low-income entrepreneurs. This scheme is part of a broader effort to boost self-employment, provide access to easy loans, and formalize the informal economy. In 2025, new updates have been announced, aiming to make financing easier and more inclusive for street vendors, shopkeepers, and freelancers.
Whether you’re a fruit seller, tailor, or run a home-based business, this scheme might be your ticket to stability and growth. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the Asaan Karobar Card?
The Asaan Karobar Card is a government-backed identity and financial access card. It helps small business owners connect with banks, microfinance institutions, and government programs to get:
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Easy access to loans
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Business registration
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Training opportunities
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Financial inclusion tools like mobile wallets and bank accounts
This card acts as both a recognition of your business and a gateway to credit support.
New Updates in 2025 You Should Know
In 2025, the government has added several new features to the scheme to make it more effective and accessible.
1. Loan Limit Increased
Previously, loan amounts ranged from PKR 50,000 to PKR 300,000. In 2025, this limit has been raised up to PKR 500,000 for qualified applicants. The increase is meant to support:
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Business expansion
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Equipment purchase
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Working capital needs
2. Easier Digital Application Process
A new portal has been launched for online applications, which means:
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No need to visit government offices
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Real-time status tracking
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Faster processing through NADRA-linked verification
3. Targeted Inclusion of Informal Workers
The scheme now covers a wider group of informal economy workers such as:
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Street vendors
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Hawkers
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Small food stall owners
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Online business owners using social media platforms
4. Interest-Free Loan Option (Qarz-e-Hasna)
A special interest-free option has been introduced for applicants from the lowest income brackets. These loans come with:
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6 to 12-month repayment periods
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No markup or hidden charges
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One-time financial training session required
Eligibility Criteria for 2025
To qualify for the Asaan Karobar Card and loan scheme, you must meet the following conditions:
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Be a Pakistani citizen aged 18–60
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Own or operate a small business (formal or informal)
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Not employed in a government job
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Hold a valid CNIC
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Not a defaulter of any previous government loan
People receiving BISP or Ehsaas cash grants are also eligible, provided they meet the business activity condition.
How to Apply Online in 2025
The digital application process has made it much more accessible across the country.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Visit the Official Portal
Go to the PM Youth Program portal. -
Register with CNIC
Enter your CNIC and mobile number linked to your name. -
Provide Business Details
Add your type of business, monthly income, and business location. -
Upload Documents
Required documents include:-
CNIC copy
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Utility bill (if available)
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Business photo (optional but recommended)
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Submit and Wait for Verification
After submission, the system will verify your NADRA and mobile data. -
Loan Disbursement or Card Issuance
Once verified, you’ll receive a notification for your card collection or loan disbursement details.
Loan Categories Under the Finance Scheme
The Finance Scheme under Asaan Karobar Card includes three major loan types:
1. Startup Support Loans
For individuals starting a new business.
Loan limit: PKR 50,000–150,000
Tenure: Up to 2 years
Markup: 0–4%
2. Business Growth Loans
For expanding an existing micro or small business.
Loan limit: PKR 150,000–500,000
Tenure: Up to 3 years
Markup: 5–9%
3. Women & Youth Loans
Targeted support for women-led businesses and youth entrepreneurs.
Loan limit: PKR 100,000–300,000
Special terms: Low markup, flexible installments
Which Sectors Are Covered?
The scheme is designed for almost all small business sectors, including but not limited to:
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Tailoring and stitching services
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Grocery or general stores
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Vegetable and fruit vendors
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Home-based food businesses
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Second-hand clothing resellers
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Motorbike and cycle mechanics
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Freelancers and digital service providers
Even mobile repair shops and cobblers can apply.
How This Helps Pakistan’s Economy
The Asaan Karobar Scheme is not just about giving loans — it’s about building an inclusive economy. Here’s how it creates impact:
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Brings informal businesses into the formal sector
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Encourages youth entrepreneurship
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Reduces unemployment
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Boosts local production and services
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Enhances tax net without burdening the poor
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
To avoid rejection or delay in approval, make sure:
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Your CNIC is updated with NADRA
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You use your own mobile number (registered on CNIC)
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You don’t submit fake or incomplete documents
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You clearly explain your business type and needs
What’s Next? Future Expansion Plans
According to officials, there are plans to:
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Integrate mobile banking for real-time loan transfers
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Offer business insurance with every loan
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Launch skill development training tied to the scheme
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Expand access to rural and underdeveloped areas
Conclusion
The Asaan Karobar Card and Finance Scheme is a powerful initiative for those who’ve never had the chance to access formal banking or credit. With updated loan limits, a user-friendly online portal, and interest-free options, 2025 marks a big leap forward in financial inclusion for small businesses in Pakistan.
If you’re running a business or planning to start one, now is the right time to take advantage of this opportunity. Don’t wait — check your eligibility, gather your documents, and apply today.
FAQs – Asaan Karobar Card Scheme
Q1: Can I apply if I don’t have a registered business?
Yes, informal businesses like street vending or home-based work are also eligible.
Q2: What happens if I can’t repay the loan on time?
There is a grace period, but repeated non-payment may lead to ineligibility for future programs.
Q3: Is there any fee for the Karobar Card?
The card is free of cost. However, loan processing fees (if any) are minimal and disclosed upfront.
Q4: Can women apply for the loan independently?
Yes, women entrepreneurs are especially encouraged and receive priority in approval.
Q5: How long does the loan approval process take?
Usually 10–15 working days after successful document verification.