How to register a company in Pakistan

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to register a company in Pakistan:

Step 1: Choose a Company Type

First, you need to decide on the type of company you want to register. The most common types are a private limited company or a public limited company. Other options include a sole proprietorship, partnership, or association of persons.

Step 2: Choose a Company Name

Choose a unique name for your company and check its availability with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). You can do this through the SECP’s Company Name Search 

 If the name is available, you can reserve it for a period, usually 60 or 90 days, which is enough time to complete the registration process.

Step 3: Prepare and Submit Registration Documents

The registration process will require you to submit several documents, including:

  • Memorandum and Articles of Association: These documents outline the company’s structure, objectives, and rules.
  • Form A: This is the application form for company registration, which can be downloaded from the SECP website.
  • CNIC/NICOP copies of subscribers/directors/CEO/nominee, or passport copies in the case of foreigners.
  • Proof of address for the company’s registered office.
  • Other documents, as required by the SECP, depending on your company type.

Step 4: Pay the Registration Fees

The registration fees vary depending on the type of company and your authorized capital 

You can pay the fees by generating a manual challan and submitting it, along with your registration application, to designated branches of MCB or UBL in Pakistan 

 

Step 5: Obtain NTN and Sales Tax Registration (if applicable)

After your company is registered, you will need to obtain a National Tax Number (NTN) from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). If your company is involved in taxable sales 

you will also need to register for sales tax.

Step 6: Register with Other Departments

Depending on your company’s nature of business, you may need to register with additional departments, such as the Labor Department, EOBI, and SESSI.

Additional Notes:

  • The incorporation time for a company in Pakistan is generally around 1.5 to 6 weeks, depending on the company type and complexity of the process.
  • Foreign investors, except for Israeli nationals, can set up single-member companies in Pakistan with only one shareholder.
  • It is recommended to seek professional help or legal advice if you are unsure about any part of the registration process.