How to Register a Startup in Pakistan – Step-by-Step Guide 2025

Starting a business in Pakistan is an exciting journey filled with possibilities, but it also requires a firm understanding of legal procedures and registration protocols. Registering a startup in Pakistan is the first crucial step toward building a credible, legally recognized business. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, helping you understand how to register a startup in Pakistan legally and efficiently.

Understanding the Importance of Startup Registration

Before diving into the process, it’s essential to understand why registering your startup is important. A registered business enjoys multiple benefits, including legal protection, access to government schemes, eligibility for business loans, the ability to open a business bank account, and protection of brand identity.

More importantly, a registered company gains the trust of customers, investors, and partners. It transforms an informal operation into a structured entity, making it easier to scale and grow the business in the long term.

Step 1: Decide the Type of Business Structure

The first decision you must make is selecting the right business structure for your startup. In Pakistan, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) recognizes various types of business entities:

1. Sole Proprietorship

• Suitable for small startups or individual entrepreneurs.

• Easy and quick to register.

• Full control over the business, but the owner is personally liable for debts.

2. Partnership

• Formed by two or more people.

• Requires a partnership deed and registration with the Registrar of Firms.

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• Liability is usually shared between partners.

3. Private Limited Company

• The most preferred structure for startups looking for scalability.

• Registered under the Companies Act, 2017.

• Offers limited liability to shareholders and a separate legal identity.

4. Single Member Company (SMC)

• Ideal for solo founders who want limited liability.

• Requires only one director and shareholder.

• Registered with the SECP like a private limited company.

Choosing the correct structure is vital for determining legal obligations, tax liabilities, and funding options in the future.

Step 2: Choose a Unique Company Name

Your startup’s name is not just a brand—it’s a legally recognized identity. The SECP requires the company name to be unique, not misleading, and compliant with naming conventions.

Guidelines to Follow:

• Avoid prohibited or sensitive words like “government,” “bank,” or “trust.”

• Check name availability through SECP’s Company Name Search tool.

• Make sure the name reflects your business purpose and isn’t already trademarked.

Once your company name is approved, it’s reserved for you for 60 days.

Step 3: Create the Required Documents

To register your startup, you must submit several documents to SECP. These include:

For private limited or SMC:

1. Memorandum of Association (MoA)—outlines the company’s objectives.

2. Articles of Association (AoA)—defines how the company will be run.

3. CNIC copies of directors and shareholders.

4. Form 29 and Form 21—details of company officers and registered office.

5. Address verification documents for the registered office.

These documents must be prepared according to SECP’s formats, and in most cases, you will need a lawyer or consultant to ensure everything is compliant.

Also Read:  How Startups in Pakistan Are Using Blockchain for Business Solutions

Step 4: Register Online with SECP

SECP has made the registration process user-friendly with its eServices portal, which allows you to submit applications online.

Online Registration Process:

1. Create an account on SECP’s eServices portal: https://eservices.secp.gov.pk

2. Fill in the application for name reservation.

3. Upon approval, submit the required forms and upload scanned documents.

4. Pay the registration fee through bank challan or online banking.

5. After review, SECP will issue a Certificate of Incorporation.

The entire process usually takes 3–5 working days, depending on accuracy and completeness.

Step 5: Register with FBR for NTN

After registering with SECP, the next critical step is to register your company with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to obtain a National Tax Number (NTN).

Why NTN is Necessary:

• Needed for filing income tax returns.

• Required for opening a corporate bank account.

• Mandatory for issuing invoices and conducting formal business.

How to Apply:

• Visit FBR’s IRIS portal: https://iris.fbr.gov.pk

• Create an account using your company’s incorporation number.

• Submit details like business address, activity, and director CNICs.

• Upload supporting documents such as utility bills and tenancy agreements.

The FBR will issue your NTN within a few working days.

Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account

A separate business bank account is necessary to keep personal and business transactions distinct. Most banks in Pakistan require the following documents:

• Certificate of Incorporation

• NTN certificate

• Board resolution authorizing account opening

• CNICs of directors

• Company letterhead and stamp

Having a dedicated account helps with financial transparency, improves credibility, and is often required by investors and vendors.

Step 7: Register with Other Relevant Authorities

Depending on your industry, you may need to register with other regulatory bodies. For example:

• Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB)—for IT and software startups.

• Chamber of Commerce and Industry—recommended for business networking and support.

• Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC)—for engineering-related startups.

• Provincial Revenue Boards—for sales tax registration.

These registrations help expand your operational scope and may also be necessary for applying for government grants or export licenses.

Step 8: Protect Your Intellectual Property

For long-term brand protection, it’s wise to register your trademark, logo, or patent with the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO Pakistan).

Trademark Registration Process:

1. Conduct a trademark search at IPO Pakistan.

2. File an application for trademark registration.

3. Wait for the examination report and publication in the Trademarks Journal.

4. Upon approval, you receive a trademark registration certificate.

Intellectual property protection ensures that your brand or innovation is legally safeguarded against duplication or misuse.

Step 9: Understand Taxation and Compliance Requirements

Post-registration, your startup must comply with ongoing tax filing and regulatory obligations. These include:

• Filing annual returns with SECP.

• Submitting monthly/quarterly tax returns to FBR.

• Conducting audits (mandatory for certain company types).

• Renewing licenses and certifications annually.

Failure to comply can lead to penalties or even suspension of your business operations. Consider hiring a tax consultant to manage these duties effectively.

Step 10: Explore Government Incentives and Support Programs

The government of Pakistan has initiated several startup-friendly schemes, particularly in the technology sector. Once your startup is officially registered, you can access these benefits:

Key incentives include:

• Zero-tax regime for IT startups for a specified duration.

• Access to incubators and accelerators like NIC, Plan9, and NEST I/O.

• Export facilitation by PSEB and State Bank of Pakistan.

• Startup grants from the Ignite Fund, SMEDA, and USAID.

Leveraging these resources can significantly reduce operational costs and boost your growth trajectory.

Tips for a Smooth Registration Process

Here are a few pro tips to make the process easier:

• Consult a legal or business registration expert to avoid document errors.

• Keep digital and hard copies of all your documents safely stored.

• Regularly check SECP and FBR portals for compliance notifications.

• Choose a business name that is both memorable and legal.

• Plan your registration timeline in alignment with business launch goals.

Final Thoughts

The journey of registering a startup in Pakistan might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance, it’s entirely manageable. From selecting the right structure to filing for tax registration and protecting intellectual property, each step lays the foundation for a strong and compliant business.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently start your entrepreneurial journey on solid legal and operational ground. Pakistan’s growing startup ecosystem, backed by government incentives and increasing investor interest, makes this an ideal time to establish your venture formally.