How to Register a Company in Pakistan: A Beginner-Friendly Guide
Starting a business in Pakistan is an exciting journey, but one of the first real milestones is company registration in Pakistan. Whether you're launching a startup, scaling a side hustle, or setting up a foreign branch, understanding the Company Registration Pakistan process is key. Luckily, it’s not as complicated as it once was — especially with digital services now streamlining the process.Why Register Your Company?
Let’s be honest: many small businesses in Pakistan operate informally. But registering your company gives you a serious edge. You get legal protection, improved credibility, access to bank accounts, government incentives, and easier scalability. Plus, potential clients and investors take you more seriously.
Types of Companies You Can Register
Before jumping into paperwork, you need to know what type of entity suits your needs. Here are the common types:
Sole Proprietorship – Easiest to start but no legal separation between you and the business.
Partnership – Suitable if you’re working with others, but still relatively informal.
Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) – The most popular and investor-friendly structure.
Single Member Company (SMC) – Great for solo entrepreneurs looking for the perks of a limited company.
Public Limited Company – For large-scale businesses that may eventually trade shares on the stock exchange.
Step-by-Step Company Registration Process in Pakistan
Choose a Company Name
The name should be unique, meaningful, and compliant with SECP’s naming regulations. Avoid prohibited or offensive words.
Reserve Your Name with SECP
Go to the SECP eServices Portal and create an account.
Apply for name reservation online. You’ll usually get approval within 1–2 days.
Prepare Required DocumentsThese typically include:
Memorandum of Association
Articles of Association
CNIC copies of directors
Form 1, Form 21, Form 29 (available on SECP portal)
Submit Incorporation Application
File the application through SECP eServices.
Pay the government fee (based on capital structure).
Upload digital copies of all forms and documents.
Receive Incorporation Certificate
Once approved, SECP will issue your Certificate of Incorporation via email.
Get Your Company NTN
Apply for a National Tax Number (NTN) from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). This is necessary for tax filing and opening a business bank account.
Open a Business Bank Account
Use your incorporation certificate and NTN to open a company bank account.
Optional but Recommended:
Register for sales tax (if applicable)
Register with other relevant authorities (e.g., chamber of commerce, labor department)
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Choosing a name that’s too similar to an existing company
Missing or incomplete documentation
Ignoring post-registration compliance (like filing annual returns)
Can Foreigners Register a Company in Pakistan?
Yes! Pakistan encourages foreign investment. As a foreigner, you can register a company in Pakistan either as a 100% foreign-owned private limited company or in partnership with local shareholders. However, you’ll need additional documentation like a passport copy and possibly a letter from your home country’s embassy.
Final Thoughts
Registering a company in Pakistan might feel overwhelming at first, but once you break it down, it’s a manageable and empowering process. Whether you're setting up an online business, a manufacturing unit, or a consultancy firm, taking the legal route gives you a solid foundation to grow.
If you’re unsure about any step, it’s okay to consult a professional or hire a company registration service — just make sure they’re SECP-compliant and transparent about their fees.