Registering a company in Pakistan through the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has become efficient and user-friendly with the introduction of its digital portal, eServices. Whether you’re forming a Private Limited Company, a Single Member Company (SMC), or a Public Limited Company, having a proper checklist is essential to ensure a smooth online registration process. This comprehensive checklist provides all the requirements, documents, and steps needed for successful company registration through SECP’s online system.
1. Pre-Registration Requirements
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Decide the type of company (Private Limited, SMC, Public Limited, Section 42)
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Determine the proposed company name (must comply with SECP’s naming guidelines)
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Choose a business address for your registered office
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Determine the authorized and paid-up capital
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Select shareholding pattern and directors (minimum two for Private Limited, one for SMC)
2. Account Setup on SECP eServices Portal
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Create an account at https://eservices.secp.gov.pk
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Verify through CNIC (for locals) or Passport (for foreigners)
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Provide email address and mobile number for communication
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Secure login credentials for future use
3. Name Reservation Checklist
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Prepare 3 proposed names in order of preference
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Comply with SECP’s Company Name Reservation Guidelines
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Log in to eServices and fill the Name Reservation Form
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Provide nature of business and company type
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Pay name reservation fee of Rs. 200 online
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Wait 1–2 working days for approval and download Name Availability Letter
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Name remains valid for 60 days
4. Documents Required for Incorporation
✔ Memorandum of Association (MoA) – outlines company’s business objectives
✔ Articles of Association (AoA) – details internal governance rules
✔ Form II (Declaration of Compliance) – confirms fulfillment of legal requirements
✔ Form 21 (Notice of Registered Office Address)
✔ Form 29 (Particulars of First Directors, CEO, and Secretary)
✔ CNICs or passports of all directors and shareholders
✔ Photographs (passport-sized) of subscribers/directors
✔ Authorization letter (if filing on behalf of others)
✔ Digital signatures (NIFT, if required by SECP)
5. Capital and Shareholding Structure
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Define authorized capital (no minimum requirement by law, commonly Rs. 100,000)
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Assign shares to each shareholder with correct value and percentage
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Decide on number of subscribers (minimum one for SMC, two for Private Limited)
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Appoint Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
6. Payment of Incorporation Fee
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System calculates fee based on authorized capital
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Pay via
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1Link internet banking
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Credit/debit card
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Manual bank challan
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Upload proof of payment if required
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Retain challan receipt or bank confirmation
7. Submission of Incorporation Application
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Log in to eServices and select “Incorporation of Company”
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Fill the online form with accurate details
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Upload all required documents in PDF format
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Ensure all signatures, attachments, and declarations are included
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Submit the form for SECP review
8. SECP Review and Certificate of Incorporation
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SECP will verify all details and may raise queries if corrections are needed
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Address any objections promptly via eServices
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Once approved, SECP issues Certificate of Incorporation
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Download the certificate from the dashboard
9. Post-Incorporation Checklist
✔ Apply for National Tax Number (NTN) via FBR’s IRIS portal
✔ Open a business bank account in the company’s name
✔ Register for Sales Tax (FBR or Provincial Authority) if providing taxable goods/services
✔ Get registered with PSEB, EOBI, Social Security, or Chamber of Commerce if applicable
✔ Prepare company letterhead and corporate seal/stamp
10. SECP Compliance Obligations Post-Registration
✔ File Form A (Annual Return) within required deadlines
✔ File Form 29 for any changes in directors or officers
✔ Maintain statutory registers (members, directors, share transfers)
✔ Hold board meetings and prepare meeting minutes
✔ Maintain proper books of accounts as per Section 220 of Companies Act
✔ Appoint auditor if required
Conclusion
By following this SECP company registration checklist, entrepreneurs in Pakistan can ensure they meet all legal and procedural requirements for online incorporation. With the digital SECP eServices portal, most tasks can be completed from anywhere in the country. A well-prepared application not only speeds up approval but also establishes a strong legal foundation for future business operations. For complex incorporations, legal and tax professionals can offer added assurance and compliance support.
