Zen Ed Group

Starting a business in Pakistan is more exciting than ever, especially now that you can handle much of the paperwork from the comfort of your home. Thanks to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), online company registration in Pakistan has become streamlined, digital, and fairly easy—even for first-time entrepreneurs.

If you're thinking of launching a startup, small business, or even a foreign-backed company, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Go for Online Company Registration?

Let’s face it: nobody likes dealing with piles of paperwork and long lines at government offices. With online company registration, you can save time, reduce errors, and track your progress in real-time. The entire process is now digitized through the SECP eServices portal, making it easier for locals and foreigners alike to set up legal businesses in Pakistan.

Types of Companies You Can Register Online

Depending on your business goals, you can choose from several types of companies:

• Sole Proprietorship (registered with FBR, not SECP)

• Partnership (registered under Partnership Act)

• Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) – Most popular and registered via SECP

• Single Member Company (SMC) – Ideal for solo founders

• Public Limited Company – For large businesses planning to offer shares publicly

Most online registrations through SECP involve Private Limited and Single Member Companies.

Step-by-Step: Online Company Registration in Pakistan

Here’s how you can register your company online without visiting an office:

2. Name Reservation

• Propose a unique company name

• Avoid restricted or religious words

• Submit the application and pay a small fee online

• If approved, the name is reserved for 60 days

3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

You'll need to draft and upload:

• Memorandum of Association (MOA)

• Articles of Association (AOA)

• CNIC copies of directors/shareholders

• Address and contact details of the business

• Digital signature (available through NIFT)

4. Submit Incorporation Application

• Fill out Forms 1, 21, and 29 on the portal

• Upload all required documents

• Pay the registration fee based on your capital

5. Get the Certificate of Incorporation

Once your documents are verified, SECP will issue a digital Certificate of Incorporation—usually within 3–5 working days.

What Happens After Registration?

Once your company is registered online, you should:

• Apply for a National Tax Number (NTN) from FBR

• Open a business bank account

• Register for sales tax (if applicable)

• Maintain annual compliance with SECP by filing regular returns

Can Foreigners Use Online Company Registration in Pakistan?

Yes, foreigners can also register companies through the SECP portal. Additional documents like passport copies and a board resolution (if registering a branch) are usually required. Foreign ownership is allowed in most sectors, though a few industries may need prior government approval.

Key Benefits of Online Company Registration

• Convenience – Complete the process from home

• Faster Processing – Most registrations take less than a week

• Transparency – Track application status in real-time

• Security – Verified system ensures data protection

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Choosing a name that’s already in use or not allowed

• Incomplete or incorrect documents

• Ignoring post-registration compliance with SECP and FBR

Final Thoughts

If you're serious about building a legitimate, scalable, and trustworthy business, online company registration in Pakistan is your first step. It might feel a little technical at first, but once you get started, the process is straightforward—especially with the SECP’s digital platform.

Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or part of a startup team, registering your company online helps you unlock opportunities like business banking, funding, government tenders, and global expansion.