Company Registration Pakistan: SECP Step-by-Step Guide 2025
A comprehensive guide to registering a company in Pakistan. Learn about the SECP process, required documents, types of companies, timelines, costs, and ongoing compliance requirements for 2025.
Starting a business in Pakistan begins with proper company registration through the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). Whether you're launching a tech startup, trading company, or manufacturing business, understanding the company registration Pakistan process is crucial for legal compliance and business success. This guide provides a complete walkthrough of company formation in Pakistan as of 2025.
Why Register a Company?
Registering a company offers significant advantages over operating as a sole proprietor:
- Limited Liability: Personal assets protected from business debts
- Separate Legal Entity: Company can own property, enter contracts, sue and be sued
- Credibility: Enhanced trust with customers, suppliers, and banks
- Perpetual Succession: Business continues regardless of owner changes
- Tax Benefits: Access to corporate tax rates and deductions
- Investment Ready: Easier to attract investors and raise capital
Types of Companies in Pakistan
1. Private Limited Company
The most popular choice for small to medium businesses:
- Minimum 2, maximum 50 shareholders
- Cannot invite public to subscribe shares
- Shares not freely transferable
- Requires at least 2 directors
- Minimum paid-up capital: PKR 100,000 (recommended)
2. Single Member Company (SMC)
Ideal for solo entrepreneurs:
- Only one shareholder/member
- One director (can be same person)
- Must appoint a nominee who becomes member if sole member dies
- Simpler compliance requirements
3. Public Limited Company
For larger businesses seeking public investment:
- Minimum 3 shareholders (no maximum)
- Can offer shares to public
- Listed on stock exchange (optional)
- More stringent compliance requirements
4. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
Hybrid structure combining partnership and company features:
- Partners have limited liability
- Flexibility in internal management
- Popular for professional services firms
5. Foreign Company
For overseas businesses establishing presence:
- Branch or liaison office
- Subject to special regulations
- Requires SECP and Board of Investment approval
💡 Recommendation
For most entrepreneurs, a Private Limited Company or Single Member Company provides the optimal balance of credibility, protection, and compliance simplicity.
Pre-Registration Requirements
1. Digital Signature Registration
All directors/subscribers need:
- National Tax Number (NTN) – see NTN Registration
- Registration with NADRA e-Sahulat for digital signatures
- Active mobile number registered in applicant's name
2. Company Name Availability
Choose a unique, appropriate name:
- Check availability on SECP eServices portal
- Must not be identical or similar to existing companies
- Cannot contain prohibited words (government, federal, etc.)
- Should reflect business nature
- Must end with "(Private) Limited" or "(SMC-Private) Limited"
3. Registered Office Address
- Physical address in Pakistan (can be residential for small companies)
- Address proof (utility bill, rent agreement, or ownership documents)
- Will receive all official correspondence
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Step 1: Name Reservation
- Login to SECP eServices portal
- Submit name availability application
- Propose up to 3 names in order of preference
- Pay fee (approximately PKR 200 per name)
- Receive name reservation (valid for 90 days)
Step 2: Prepare Incorporation Documents
Defines company objectives, scope of business, and relationship with shareholders
Internal rules for company management, director powers, and shareholder rights
Confirmation that all requirements of Companies Act have been met
Details of all directors including CNIC, contact, and consent
CEO, CFO, and company secretary details
All subscribers/directors and witnesses
Step 3: Online Submission
- Login to SECP ePortal with digital signatures
- Select "Incorporation of Company"
- Fill online forms with company details
- Upload scanned documents
- Pay incorporation fee online
- Submit application
Step 4: SECP Processing
SECP reviews application for:
- Document completeness and accuracy
- Compliance with Companies Act 2017
- Name appropriateness
- Subscriber eligibility
Step 5: Certificate of Incorporation
Upon approval:
- SECP issues Certificate of Incorporation
- Company receives unique registration number
- Legal existence begins from date on certificate
- Can commence business operations
Timeline for Company Registration
| Stage | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Name Reservation | 1-3 days | Instant if no conflicts |
| Document Preparation | 3-7 days | With professional assistance |
| SECP Processing | 3-7 days | May request corrections |
| Total (Standard) | 1-2 weeks | Assuming no complications |
⚡ Fast Track Option
SECP offers same-day incorporation for companies meeting specific criteria and submitting during business hours with complete documentation.
Costs of Company Registration (2025)
Post-Registration Compliance
Registration is just the beginning. Ongoing compliance includes:
Immediate Requirements:
- National Tax Number (NTN): Register with FBR
- Sales Tax Registration: If applicable to your business
- Professional Tax: Register with provincial authority
- Bank Account: Open company bank account
- Company Seal: Create official company stamp
Annual Compliance:
- Annual Return: File with SECP within 30 days of AGM
- Financial Statements: Audited accounts for companies above threshold
- Income Tax Return: Annual filing with FBR
- Sales Tax Return: Monthly/quarterly if registered
- Annual General Meeting: Required for all companies
Event-Based Filings:
- Change in directors (Form 29 within 14 days)
- Change in registered office (Form 29)
- Increase in capital
- Charges/mortgages on company assets
Common Registration Mistakes to Avoid
- Inadequate Name Search: Choose too-similar names causing rejection
- Vague Objectives: Unclear business objectives in MoA
- Incorrect Capital: Authorizing too much or too little capital
- Mistakes in Forms: Errors in director details or shareholding
- Missing Signatures: Inadequate witnessing or digital signature issues
- Ignoring Compliance: Failing to maintain post-registration requirements
Foreign Investment and Company Registration
Foreign nationals can:
- Hold shares in Pakistani companies
- Serve as directors (with proper work visa)
- Establish wholly-owned subsidiaries
- Repatriate profits subject to regulations
Additional Requirements for Foreign Directors:
- Valid passport copy
- Overseas address proof
- Visa documentation
- Board of Investment registration (for significant investment)
Professional Company Registration Services
While DIY registration is possible, professional assistance ensures accuracy, saves time, and prevents costly mistakes. Our company registration services handle everything from name reservation to post-registration compliance, letting you focus on building your business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register a company without a physical office?
A registered address is mandatory, but for small companies, a residential address is acceptable initially. You must update SECP if the address changes.
What's the minimum investment required to start a company?
There's no legal minimum, but PKR 100,000 paid-up capital is recommended for credibility. You can start with as little as PKR 10,000 if needed.
Can a salaried employee be a director?
Yes, provided your employment contract doesn't prohibit it. Check for any non-compete or exclusivity clauses in your employment agreement.
How long does a company registration remain valid?
Company registration is perpetual as long as annual compliance is maintained. Failure to file returns can lead to strike-off by SECP.