How to Register an IT Company in Pakistan (2025 Step-by-Step Guide)

Pakistan’s IT industry is booming, with IT exports crossing over $2.5 billion annually and growing steadily. If you’re planning to launch your software house, app development firm, or digital services company, registering your IT company is the first legal step toward building a credible, tax-compliant, and growth-ready business.

This guide will walk you through how to register an IT company in Pakistan, including:

• SECP registration steps

• FBR NTN registration

• PSEB registration

• Bank account opening

• Tax incentives

• FAQs and tips

✅ Step 1: Choose the Right Business Structure for Your IT Company

In Pakistan, the most suitable legal structures for IT companies are:

🧠 Pro Tip: Most IT exporters and startups go for SMC or Private Limited structures due to better recognition by clients, banks, PSEB, and international marketplaces.

🏛️ Step 2: Register the Company with SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan)

To legally incorporate your company, you need to register with the SECP, Pakistan’s corporate regulator.

🔹 Documents Required for SECP Registration

• CNIC copies of all directors/shareholder(s)

• Proposed company name (check availability via SECP portal)

• Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA)

• Office address

• Paid-up capital information

🔹 Steps to Register with SECP (Online Process)

1. Create Account on SECP e-Services portal

2. Name Reservation (Form A)

3. Company Incorporation (Form 1, Form 21, Form 29)

4. Pay Government Fee online via debit card or bank

5. Download Incorporation Certificate

💡 Processing Time: 3–5 working days
💰 Cost: Around PKR 9,625 depending on capital

💼 Step 3: Register for NTN with FBR (Federal Board of Revenue)

Once the SECP process is complete, you need to register your IT company with the FBR to obtain an NTN (National Tax Number) and become a tax filer.

🔹 Required Documents

• SECP Incorporation Certificate

• CNIC of Director

• Rent agreement or ownership proof of office

• Letterhead with company name

🔹 Steps to Get NTN for IT Company

1. Visit IRIS Portal

2. Sign up and fill in business details

3. Upload scanned documents

4. Wait for verification and approval

💰 Cost: Free
💡 Time: 1–2 working days

💳 Step 4: Open a Business Bank Account

You’ll need a business bank account to:

• Receive payments from clients (especially international transfers)

• Use Payoneer, Stripe, Wise, or SWIFT

• File income and sales tax returns

✅ Documents Required

• Incorporation certificate

• NTN certificate

• Board resolution (for Pvt Ltd)

• Office address proof

• Company stamp and letterhead

📌 Recommended Banks: Meezan, HBL, Faysal Bank, Standard Chartered

📢 Step 5: Register with PSEB (Pakistan Software Export Board)

For IT companies targeting international clients, PSEB registration is essential. It enables:

• Export registration

• Freelancers to open IT exporter accounts

• Tax exemptions

• Access to training, subsidies, and certifications

🔹 Documents Required

• SECP Certificate (or Sole Proprietorship docs)

• NTN & Sales Tax Certificate (if applicable)

• Website/Social media presence

• List of services

• Business address

🔹 PSEB Registration Process

1. Apply online at PSEB Portal

2. Submit documents

3. Await approval (usually 5–7 days)

✅ Once approved, your company is listed on PSEB’s directory, and you can claim benefits.

🎁 Tax Benefits for IT Companies in Pakistan

Registered IT companies enjoy several tax incentives:

• 0% income tax on export revenue (till June 2026, if registered with PSEB)

• No sales tax on IT exports

• Reduced tax on software and digital services

📌 Note: You must file returns and stay active with SECP, FBR, and PSEB to retain these incentives.

📄 Other Optional but Useful Registrations

💡 Pro Tips for New IT Startups

• Set up a proper office or co-working address – it helps in bank account approval

• Create a professional website – PSEB may check online presence

• Maintain monthly bookkeeping and file tax returns regularly

• Use accounting tools like QuickBooks, Xero, or Excel templates

• Stay updated on SECP & FBR notices

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can freelancers register an IT company in Pakistan?

Yes. Freelancers can start as a sole proprietor or register an SMC to build credibility, get a business bank account, and become eligible for PSEB.

Q2: Do I need an office to register a company?

Yes, you need a valid business address (own, rented, or co-working) for SECP and bank verification.

Q3: How long does it take to register a software house?

Typically, 5–10 working days, depending on documentation and response time from SECP/FBR/PSEB.

Q4: Is SECP registration mandatory to work with international clients?

No, but it’s highly recommended. Many foreign clients and platforms (like Payoneer/Stripe) prefer working with registered entities.

Q5: What is the cost of registering an IT company?

• SECP fees: ~PKR 2,000–5,000

• Filing help / Consultancy: PKR 10,000–25,000 (optional)

• PSEB registration: Free

📢 Final Thoughts

Registering your IT company in Pakistan is the first step to going global, attracting high-paying clients, and availing tax benefits. With the support of SECP, FBR, and PSEB, the process is now faster, digital, and more efficient than ever before.

If you’re serious about growing your software house, digital agency, or IT consultancy — get your business registered the right way.

✅ Need Help Registering Your IT Company?

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