Types of Business Structures in Pakistan
Before registering, you need to choose the right business structure. Each type has different legal, tax, and compliance implications:
| Structure | Registered With | Liability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sole Proprietorship | TDCP / District Council | Unlimited personal liability | Small individual businesses |
| Partnership Firm | Registrar of Firms | Unlimited personal liability | 2-20 partners in a joint business |
| Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) | SECP | Limited to share capital | Growing businesses, investor-ready ventures |
| Single Member Company (SMC) | SECP | Limited to share capital | Single owner wanting corporate protection |
| Public Limited Company | SECP | Limited to share capital | Large enterprises, public fundraising |
Private Limited Company Registration — Step by Step
- Step 1 — Name Reservation: Search and reserve your company name on SECP STARR portal (starr.secp.gov.pk). Name must be unique and not offensive or misleading
- Step 2 — Prepare Documents: Draft Memorandum and Articles of Association, collect CNIC copies of all directors/shareholders
- Step 3 — Submit Application on STARR: Complete the incorporation form online with company details, registered office address, share structure
- Step 4 — Pay SECP Fees: Pay the government fee based on authorized capital (starts from Rs. 1,500)
- Step 5 — Receive Certificate: SECP issues Certificate of Incorporation within 3-7 working days
- Step 6 — Post-Registration: Open company bank account, register NTN with FBR, apply for sales tax registration if applicable, obtain any sector-specific licenses
Documents Required for Company Registration
- CNIC copies of all directors and shareholders
- Proof of registered office address (utility bill or tenancy agreement)
- Memorandum of Association (MoA) — company's objectives and powers
- Articles of Association (AoA) — internal governance rules
- Form 1 — Declaration of compliance by incorporator
- Form 21 — Notice of registered office address
- Form 29 — Particulars of directors/officers
SECP Registration Fees Pakistan 2026
| Authorized Capital | SECP Fee |
|---|---|
| Up to Rs. 1,00,000 | Rs. 1,500 |
| Rs. 1,00,001 — Rs. 5,00,000 | Rs. 3,000 |
| Rs. 5,00,001 — Rs. 10,00,000 | Rs. 6,000 |
| Rs. 10,00,001 — Rs. 50,00,000 | Rs. 9,000 |
| Rs. 50,00,001 — Rs. 1 Crore | Rs. 12,000 |
Total Cost Estimate: Including SECP fees, document preparation, FBR NTN registration, and professional consultant fee, expect Rs. 25,000–60,000 for a complete private limited company setup in Pakistan through a consultant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to register a company in Pakistan?
SECP fees start from Rs. 1,500. Total cost including professional fees, NTN registration, and bank account setup is typically Rs. 25,000–60,000 depending on capital size and services needed.
How long does company registration take in Pakistan?
SECP online registration via STARR portal takes 3–7 working days once all documents are submitted correctly. Name reservation is approved within 24–48 hours.
Can I register a company online in Pakistan?
Yes. SECP's STARR portal (starr.secp.gov.pk) allows complete online registration of private limited companies. You can submit all documents digitally and pay fees online without visiting any SECP office.
What taxes does a private limited company pay in Pakistan?
A Pvt Ltd company pays corporate income tax at 29% on net profits, files annual income tax return, monthly/quarterly withholding tax statements, and sales tax returns if registered. It must also file annual returns with SECP.
Register Your Company Hassle-Free
We handle complete company registration — SECP incorporation, FBR NTN, sales tax registration, and all post-registration compliance in one package.
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