What Is Capital Value Tax (CVT)?

Capital Value Tax is a tax charged on the value of certain capital assets — most notably foreign assets held by resident individuals and specified motor vehicles. It is distinct from income tax and is levied regardless of whether the asset generates income.

CVT on Foreign Assets

Resident individuals holding foreign assets — including foreign real estate, foreign securities, and foreign bank deposits beyond routine remittance accounts — above the exemption threshold are liable to CVT, generally at 1% of the asset's fair market value, declared and paid through the annual income tax return.

Asset TypeCVT Treatment
Foreign real estate1% of fair market value above exemption threshold
Foreign securities/investments1% of fair market value above exemption threshold
Specified motor vehiclesFixed CVT rate based on engine capacity at registration

Important: CVT on foreign assets applies in addition to any other tax obligations on income generated by those assets. Overseas Pakistanis and resident individuals with foreign holdings should review their CVT exposure annually before filing.

CVT vs Section 7E

CVT and Section 7E deemed income tax are often confused but are separate levies. CVT applies to specified foreign assets and certain vehicles, while Section 7E applies to deemed income from domestic immovable property holdings. A taxpayer with both foreign assets and multiple local properties could be liable for both.

How to Declare and Pay CVT

  • Declare foreign assets in the foreign assets schedule of your annual return
  • Compute CVT liability based on fair market value at year-end
  • Pay CVT along with your annual income tax liability via IRIS
  • Maintain documentation of asset valuation for audit purposes

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has to pay Capital Value Tax in Pakistan?
Resident individuals owning foreign assets (including foreign property, foreign securities, and foreign vehicles) above a specified value threshold are liable to pay CVT, along with owners of certain locally registered motor vehicles.
How is CVT calculated on foreign assets?
CVT is typically charged at 1% of the fair market value of foreign assets exceeding the exemption threshold, declared and paid through the annual income tax return.
Is CVT the same as Section 7E deemed income tax?
No, CVT and Section 7E are separate taxes. CVT applies on the value of specified foreign assets and certain vehicles, while Section 7E applies to deemed income from domestic immovable property. Some taxpayers may be liable for both depending on their asset holdings.

Need Help With CVT Compliance?

Expert guidance on Capital Value Tax for foreign asset holders and overseas Pakistanis.