As per Lawkidunya, Here is a comprehensive guide to company registration in Pakistan:
Types of Companies
1. Private Limited Company (Pvt. Ltd.): Most common type of company in Pakistan.
2. Public Limited Company (Pub. Ltd.): Suitable for large-scale businesses.
3. Single Member Company (SMC): For sole proprietors.
4. Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): For partnerships with limited liability.
Registration Process
Step 1: Choose a Company Name
1. Ensure the name is unique and not already registered.
2. Check the availability of the name on the SECP website.
Step 2: Obtain Digital Signature Certificate
1. Get a digital signature certificate from a certified authority (e.g., NIFT or PRAL).
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
1. Memorandum and Articles of Association.
2. Form 1 (company registration form).
3. ID documents of directors and shareholders.
4. Proof of address.
Step 4: Register with SECP
1. Online Registration: Submit application through SECP’s eServices portal.
2. Offline Registration: Submit application at the SECP office.
Step 5: Obtain Certificate of Incorporation
1. Once approved, obtain the Certificate of Incorporation from SECP.
Step 6: Register with FBR
1. Register with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for a National Tax Number (NTN) and Sales Tax Registration.
Step 7: Obtain Other Licenses
1. Obtain necessary licenses and permits from relevant authorities.
Required Documents
1. Memorandum and Articles of Association.
2. Form 1 (company registration form).
3. ID documents of directors and shareholders.
4. Proof of address.
5. Digital signature certificate.
Registration Fee
1. Varies depending on the type of company and its authorized capital.
2. Fee ranges from PKR 2,000 to PKR 50,000 or more.
Processing Time
1. Online Registration: 3-5 working days.
2. Offline Registration: 5-7 working days.
Post-Registration Compliance
1. File annual returns with SECP and FBR.
2. Maintain accurate financial records.
3. Obtain necessary licenses and permits.
FAQs
1. What is the minimum capital requirement for company registration in Pakistan?
Answer: PKR 100,000 for private limited companies.
2. Can a foreigner register a company in Pakistan?
Answer: Yes, with certain conditions and approvals.
3. What is the difference between a private limited company and a public limited company in Pakistan?
Answer: Private limited companies have limited liability and are suitable for small-scale businesses, while public limited companies have unlimited liability and are suitable for large-scale businesses.
Contact Information
For assistance or more information, contact:
Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP)
Phone: +92 51 111 117 117
Fax: +92 51 920 7055
Email: mailto:info@secp.gov.pk