The Maryam Nawaz Karobar Card Loan Scheme, officially called the Asaan Karobar Card(AKC Punjab), is a groundbreaking initiative by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to empower small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Punjab. This program offers interest-free loans of up to PKR 1 million to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses, boost local economies, and create jobs. Below is a detailed guide on eligibility, features, and how to apply.
What is the Asaan Karobar Card?
The Asaan Karobar Card also know as the Maryam Nawaz Loan Scheme, is a digital SME loan scheme designed to provide financial support to Punjab’s small entrepreneurs. It offers a revolving credit facility for business expenses, with zero interest and flexible repayment terms.
Key Benefits of the Maryam Nawaz Loan Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Loan Amount | Up to PKR 1 million |
| Tenure | 3 years (with 12-month revolving credit) |
| Repayment | 24 equal monthly installments after the first year |
| Grace Period | 3 months from card issuance |
| Interest Rate | 0% |
| Cash Withdrawal Limit | Up to 25% of the loan limit |
| Eligible Expenses | Vendor payments, utility bills, taxes, and business-related cash needs |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Asaan Karobar Card, applicants must:
- Be a Pakistani citizen aged 21–57 years.
- Reside in Punjab with a valid CNIC.
- Own an existing or proposed business in Punjab.
- Have a clean credit history (no overdue loans).
- Pass a credit and psychometric assessment.
Note: Only one application per person/business is allowed.
How to Apply for the Maryam Nawaz Asaan Karobar Card Loan?
Step 1: Register on the Official Portal
- Visit the Asaan Karobar Card Portal: https://akc.punjab.gov.pk/login.
- Click “Register Now” and enter:
- Mobile number (registered in your name).
- Personal details (name, father’s name, CNIC, date of birth).
- A strong 8-character password (include a capital letter, number, and special character).
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
After logging in:
- Save your progress after each section.
- Provide:
- Personal Info: Address, family details, education, and business experience.
- Business Details: Nature of business, registration status, revenue, employees, and expenses.
- Loan Requirements: Amount (PKR 100,000–1,000,000) and purpose (auto-filled as “working capital”).
Step 3: Upload Documents
Attach:
- Front/back CNIC copies.
- 1–2 years of bank statements (if available) to strengthen your application.
Step 4: Pay the Processing Fee
- A non-refundable PKR 500 fee must be paid using the 19-digit PSID generated on the portal.
- Pay via mobile banking, ATM, or bank counter (select 1Bill – Invoice/Fixed Payment).
Step 5: Submit the Application
- Review all details and click “Submit”.
- Save the confirmation message/registration number for tracking.
Note: If the “Submit” button is disabled, your application has already been submitted.
Karobar Card Loan Repayment & Usage Rules
- First 50% of Funds: Released immediately; use within 6 months.
- Second 50%: Released after consistent repayments and PRA/FBR registration.
- Repayment Schedule:
- Grace Period: 3 months (no payments).
- After the Grace Period: Start repaying 5% of the principal monthly.
- Year 2–3: Repay the remaining balance in 24 equal installments.
Restrictions:
- Funds can only be used for business expenses (e.g., blocked for personal use).
- Registration with Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) is mandatory within 6 months.
Charges & Fees
- Annual Card Fee: PKR 25,000 + FED (deducted from the loan).
- Covered by the Scheme: Life insurance, card issuance, and delivery.
- Late Payment Charges: Applied as per bank policies.
Need Help?
Contact the Asaan Karobar Helpline at 1786 for support.
Final Tips Before Applying Online
- Double-check all information before submitting.
- Get your CNIC and business documents ready.
- Use the feasibility studies on the PSIC and BOP websites for new businesses.
The Asaan Karobar Card is a golden opportunity for Punjab’s entrepreneurs to grow their businesses risk-free. Apply today and take the first step toward financial empowerment! 🚀
