Register a Company in Pakistan: The Complete 2024 Guide
Starting a business? Learning how to register a company in Pakistan is your crucial first step. This guide makes company registration easy. Thinking of starting a private limited company, forming an LLP, or setting up a single-member company in Pakistan? We can help!
Rizwan, an app developer in Lahore, shares, “I spent 6 months trying to register my IT company before finding the right process. This guide has all the info I wish I’d known!
Why You Should Register Your Company in Pakistan
Here are some key benefits of registering a business in Pakistan:
✅ Legal Security: Your assets stay safe. Limited Liability Explained. Tax Benefits—Registered companies receive tax credits and incentives (FBR Portal). Business Growth—Essential for opening corporate bank accounts and attracting investors. ✅ Brand Trust—Customers prefer SECP-registered businesses. SECP Benefits.
Step 1: Choose Your Company Type in Pakistan
1. Register a Single Member Company (SMC)
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Ideal for solo entrepreneurs.
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Fastest company registration in Pakistan.
2. Register a Private Limited Company
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Most popular for startups (requires 2+ shareholders)
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Preferred for business registration in Pakistan with growth plans
3. Register an LLP in Pakistan
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Best for professional partnerships (lawyers, consultants)
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Combines flexibility with legal protection
4. Register a Public Limited Company
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For large-scale businesses needing public investment
🔗 Compare structures: SECP Company Types
Step 2: Company Name Registration in Pakistan
Follow these rules for your Pakistani company name:
✔ Check availability with the SECP Name Search. ✔ Include required suffixes like Pvt Ltd, SMC, or LLP. ✔ Avoid using prohibited words per SECP Naming Rules.
Pro Tip: Prepare 3-4 name options—approval takes 24-48 hours.
Step 3: Documents Needed to Register a Company in Pakistan
For Private Limited Registration:
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Memorandum & Articles of Association
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Form A (Director details)
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CNIC Copies of all shareholders
For SMC Registration:
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Same documents, but only one shareholder
🔗 Download templates: SECP Document Center
Step 4: Online Company Registration in Pakistan
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Create SECP eServices Account (Registration Portal)
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Submit Digital Application
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Pay Registration Fees (PKR 2,000-20,000)
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Receive Approval (Typically 3-7 days)
Step 5: Post-Registration Requirements
1. Open a Corporate Bank Account
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Required for all registered companies in Pakistan
2. Obtain NTN Registration
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Mandatory for tax compliance (FBR Portal)
3. Register for Sales Tax (If applicable)
4. Annual Compliance Filing
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Maintain your company registration status
Common Mistakes When Registering a Company in Pakistan
🚫 Incorrect Company Type Selection 🚫 Incomplete Documentation 🚫 Missing Annual Compliance
Start Your Business Journey Today
Now that you know how to register a company in Pakistan, take that first step! For professional assistance:
📞 SECP Helpline: 111-000-422 🌐 Visit: SECP Official Site
Your dream business is just a registration away! 🚀
FAQs: Register a Company in Pakistan (2024)
1. How long does it take to register a company in Pakistan?
The company registration process typically takes 3-7 working days after submitting documents to SECP eServices. Delays may occur if documents are incomplete.
2. What is the cost to register a company in Pakistan?
Single Member Company (SMC): ~PKR 2,000-5,000
Private Limited Company: PKR 5,000-20,000 (depends on authorized capital)
LLP Registration: ~PKR 10,000
See SECP Fee Structure
3. What documents are needed for company registration?
For Pvt Ltd Companies:
MOA & AOA
CNICs of directors
Registered office proof
For SMCs: Same as above, but only 1 shareholder
5. Is a physical office required to register a company?
Yes, you must provide a registered office address (can be home-based). Virtual offices aren’t accepted by SECP.
6. How do I check my company name availability?
Use the free SECP Name Search Tool before applying.
7. What’s the difference between NTN and company registration?
SECP Registration: Legally incorporates your business
NTN Registration: Tax identification from FBR (required after incorporation)
8. Can I register a company online in Pakistan?
Yes! The entire process is digital via SECP eServices. No in-person visits needed.
9. Do I need a lawyer to register a company?
Not mandatory, but recommended for:
Drafting MOA/AOA
Complex structures (e.g., foreign investment)
Avoiding compliance errors
10. What happens after company registration?
1Open a corporate bank account
2 Register for taxes (NTN, Sales Tax)
3 File annual returns with SECP
Still have questions? Contact SECP Helpline at 111-000-422.
