How to Register a Company in Pakistan – Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Want to start your own business in Pakistan but don’t know how to register it? You’re not alone. Many people have great business ideas, but they stop because they think registration is too hard or confusing.

The good news? Registering a company in Pakistan is now easier than ever. Thanks to online services, you can even do it from home.

In this blog post, I’ll explain everything you need to know in simple, clear steps. Whether you want to open a small shop, an online store, or a tech startup — this guide is for you.

Why Register a Company in Pakistan?

Before we dive into the process, here’s why you should register your business:

• Makes your business legal and official

• Builds trust with customers and partners

• Allows you to open a business bank account

• Helps with getting loans and investors

• You can pay taxes properly and avoid legal trouble

Who Can Register a Company in Pakistan?

Anyone with a valid CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) can register a company. You must be 18 years or older.

You can register the company as:

• A single person (sole owner)

• A private limited company

• A partnership

This blog focuses on how to register a private limited company through SECP — the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan.

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Company in Pakistan

Step 1: Choose Your Business Name

Pick a unique name for your company. Make sure:

• It’s not already taken

• It doesn’t use banned or sensitive words (like “government”, “bank”, etc.)

Use the Name Search Tool on the SECP website to check availability:
https://eservices.secp.gov.pk

Tip: Try to pick a name that shows what your business does.

Step 2: Create an SECP Account (eServices Portal)

Go to https://eservices.secp.gov.pk
Click on “Sign Up” and make an account.

You’ll need:

• Your full name

• CNIC number

• Email address

• Mobile number

You will receive a PIN code on your email and phone to activate your account.

Step 3: Apply for Company Name Reservation

Once logged in, choose “Name Reservation” from the eServices menu.

Fill out the form:

• Enter 3 name options (your top choices)

• Describe your business activity (e.g., “online clothing store”)

• Pay the fee (around Rs. 200–300)

You can pay using:

• Credit/debit card

• JazzCash/Easypaisa

• 1-Link bank option

SECP usually approves the name within 1-2 working days.

Step 4: Prepare Documents for Company Registration

After your name is approved, prepare these basic documents:

1. Form 1 (Application for Incorporation)

2. Form 21 (Company office address)

3. Form 29 (Details of company directors)

4. Memorandum of Association (MoA) – what your company will do

5. Articles of Association (AoA) – rules of your company

6. Copies of CNICs of directors and witnesses

Don’t worry — templates are available on the SECP site.

Step 5: Submit the Application for Incorporation

Log in to your SECP eServices account again.

Click on “Incorporation of Company” and fill in the required info:

• Company type: Private Limited

• Number of directors

• Business sector (e.g., IT, trading, services)

• Shareholding details

Upload all documents and submit your application.

Step 6: Pay the Incorporation Fee

After submission, you’ll get a challan form.

Pay the registration fee using:

• Online banking

• Mobile wallets

• Designated banks (like UBL, MCB)

Fee depends on your company capital. For most small startups, it’s between Rs. 2,000–5,000.

Step 7: Receive Your Certificate of Incorporation

If everything is correct, SECP will issue your Certificate of Incorporation within 2–5 working days.

You’ll get this document by email — this means your company is now officially registered!

What to Do After Registering Your Company

Your company is now real — congratulations! But there are a few more steps to complete:

Get an NTN (National Tax Number)

Visit https://iris.fbr.gov.pk
Register as a business and apply for an NTN — needed for taxes and bank accounts.

Open a Business Bank Account

Use your:

• Certificate of Incorporation

• NTN

• CNIC

• Company documents

Choose any bank in Pakistan with a business account option.

Register for Sales Tax (Optional)

If your business crosses the sales threshold, register with FBR for Sales Tax. This is important for e-commerce and product-based businesses.

Estimated Costs of Company Registration in Pakistan (2025)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Picking a name without checking SECP rules
• Not filling the forms properly
• Missing required documents
• Using wrong business activity codes
• Delaying NTN and bank registration

Conclusion

Registering a company in Pakistan may seem confusing, but with the right steps and proper guidance, it’s completely doable — even for beginners. Thanks to SECP’s online portal, you can now register from home, with minimal cost and effort.

To recap, here’s what you need to do:

1. Choose and reserve a business name

2. Create an SECP eServices account

3. Fill out incorporation forms

4. Submit documents and pay the fee

5. Get your company certificate

6. Apply for an NTN and open a bank account

Once you’re done, your business will be official, legal, and ready to grow.

FAQs – Company Registration in Pakistan

1. How long does it take to register a company in Pakistan?

Usually 3 to 7 working days, if all documents are complete and correct.

2. Do I need a lawyer to register a company?

No, you can do it yourself through SECP’s online portal. But many people hire a consultant for help.

3. Can I register a company from home?

Yes, SECP offers full online registration through its eServices portal.

4. Is company registration expensive?

No, the basic cost is around Rs. 3,000–7,000 depending on your capital and services used.

5. Is it necessary to get an NTN after registration?

Yes. An NTN is needed for tax filing, opening a bank account, and running your business legally.