Introduction
Starting a business in Pakistan doesn’t need to be confusing. You want to register a company or agency, but you don’t have time for bureaucracy. This guide cuts through the noise. It breaks down each step, using what’s current in 2025, without over-promising or buzzwords.
Step 1: Pick the Right Business Type
what structure fits? Most people choose a Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd), a Single Member Company (SMC), or a Public Limited.
- Pvt Ltd needs two people. Good for startups and SMEs.
- SMC works if you’re solo. You still get limited liability.
- Public Ltd is for big ventures that might go public.
Structure affects how you register and what rules apply.
Step 2: Choose and Reserve Your Company Name
You’ll need to reserve the name with SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan). Do it online via the e-Services portal. Submit your application before 10 a.m. for same-day processing. You sign with your PIN and pay via credit card or online banking. SECP Pakistan
Step 3: Prepare Incorporation Documents
Next, draft your Memorandum and Articles of Association (MoA and AoA). You’ll need details of your registered office, directors, shareholders, their IDs and addresses. It’s not just paperwork. It defines how your company works.
Also Read: All BISE Punjab Boards Announce 11th Class Results 2025 Date
Step 4: Submit Your Application
You file online via the SECP e-Services or eZfile portal. Login, upload your MoA/AoA and other details, sign with your PIN, and pay incorporation fees. If done by 10 a.m., you might get approval or feedback the same day. SECP Pakistan
Step 5: Certificate of Incorporation
Once approved, SECP issues your Certificate of Incorporation and your Company Registration Number (CRN). You can download it from your e-services account or pick it up from a CRO. Usually, it takes a few business days.
Step 6: Get Your NTN and Register for Taxes
After incorporation, go to the FBR’s IRIS portal to register your company for an NTN (National Tax Number). You may also need sales tax registration or PSEB registration if you’re in IT.
Step 7: Open a Business Bank Account
With your NTN and incorporation certificate, you can open a corporate bank account. You’ll need these documents along with IDs of your directors.
Step 8: Stay Compliant
A company must file annual returns (Form A) with SECP. If you hold an AGM, you file within 30 days. If not, file by January 30 next year. Missing it means penalties.
Registering gives you legal recognition. It protects your personal assets, adds credibility, and opens doors to financing and formal contracts. It also keeps you in line with regulatory and tax obligations.
Pricing for company registration in Pakistan
SECP Fees – Name reservation (PKR 1,000 online) and incorporation fee (about PKR 5,500 for up to 100K capital, then more as capital increases).
Digital Signature Certificate – PKR 1,500-2,000 per director, needed for e-filing.
Stamp Duty & Filing – Around PKR 1,000-2,000 plus ~PKR 400-500 per million capital for stamp duty.
NTN Registration – Free if you do it yourself, PKR 1,000-3,000 with a tax consultant.
Other Costs – Legal/consultancy (10K-50K depending on support), plus small extras like company stamp or office address (1,500-7,000).
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general guidance only. Company registration rules, SECP fees, and tax requirements in Pakistan change from time to time. While we have included the most up-to-date details available, readers should always verify with official sources such as the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) before making any decisions. The pricing details shared in this article are based on the latest available information from SECP and FBR. Always confirm current fees from official SECP and FBR sources before proceeding. This content does not replace legal, financial, or professional advice.
