Man showing company registration certificates for company registration in Pakistan.

Company Registration Certificates in Pakistan: Complete Guide for 2026

Starting a business in Pakistan is a strategic step toward achieving financial growth, but it requires adherence to legal compliance to operate smoothly. One of the most critical aspects of this process is obtaining company registration certificates

These certificates not only validate your business but also help secure funding, open bank accounts, and establish credibility.

This guide provides comprehensive information on company registration certificates in Pakistan, covering the process, required documents, templates, and relevant SECP regulations.

What is a Company Registration Certificate?

A company registration certificate is an official document issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) confirming that your business is legally registered. It includes essential details such as:

  • Company name
  • Registration number
  • Type of company (Private Limited, Sole Proprietorship, or Partnership)
  • Date of incorporation
  • Registered address

This certificate is a legal proof that your company exists under the Companies Act 2017.

Types of Company Registration Certificates in Pakistan

Depending on your business structure, you may receive different certificates:

Type of CompanyCertificate IssuedKey Features
Private Limited CompanyCertificate of Incorporation (SECP)Limited liability, minimum 2 shareholders
Sole ProprietorshipBusiness Registration CertificateSingle owner, easy to manage
PartnershipPartnership Registration CertificateShared responsibilities, profits, and liabilities
Non-Profit OrganizationsNGO Registration CertificateTax exemptions, charitable activities

Steps to Obtain Company Registration Certificates in Pakistan

1. Choose Your Business Structure

Decide whether you want a Private Limited Company, Sole Proprietorship, or Partnership. Each structure has different legal and tax implications.

2. Company Name Reservation

Reserve your desired company name through the SECP online portal. Make sure it is unique and complies with SECP rules. Learn more about SECP company registration online.

3. Prepare Required Documents

Commonly required documents include:

  • CNIC copies of owners/directors
  • Proof of registered office (rent agreement or ownership documents)
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) for companies
  • Partnership deed (for partnerships)

4. File Incorporation Forms with SECP

Submit your documents online via the SECP portal. Forms vary depending on your business type. For detailed forms, visit SECP Portal.

5. Payment of Registration Fees

Pay the prescribed SECP fees. Fees differ based on company type and capital.

6. Receive Your Company Registration Certificate

Once approved, SECP issues the official company registration certificate. You can also download it online in PDF format.

Documents Required for Company Registration in Pakistan

DocumentRequired ForNotes
CNIC/NICOPAll company typesOwner/Director identification
Proof of AddressAll company typesUtility bill or rental agreement
Memorandum of AssociationPrivate Limited CompanyDefines company objectives
Articles of AssociationPrivate Limited CompanyGoverns internal management
Partnership DeedPartnershipLegal agreement between partners
Business Registration FormSole ProprietorshipFiled with relevant authority

Company Registration Certificates Templates

Having a ready template helps new businesses streamline registration. A typical company registration certificate template includes:

  • Company Name
  • Registration Number
  • Date of Incorporation
  • Type of Company
  • Registered Address
  • Names of Directors/Partners
  • SECP Seal and Signature
Type of CompanyCertificate IssuedSECP/Authority FeesProcessing TimeRequired DocumentsKey Benefits
Private Limited CompanyCertificate of IncorporationPKR 3,000 – 5,000 (varies by capital)5–10 business daysCNIC/NICOP of directors, Proof of Address, MOA, AOA, Name ReservationLimited liability, legal recognition, access to investors
Sole ProprietorshipBusiness Registration CertificatePKR 500 – 1,500 (provincial authority)1–3 business daysCNIC, Proof of Address, Business Registration FormSimple structure, single ownership, easy compliance
PartnershipPartnership Registration CertificatePKR 1,000 – 2,5003–5 business daysCNICs of partners, Proof of Address, Partnership DeedShared ownership, combined resources, credibility
Non-Profit Organization / NGONGO Registration CertificatePKR 5,000 – 10,00015–30 business daysCNIC/NICOP of founders, MOA, proof of office, objectives documentTax exemptions, charitable operations, access to grants

Why Company Registration Certificates Are Important

  1. Legal Recognition: Confirms your business exists legally.
  2. Bank Account Opening: Required for opening corporate accounts.
  3. Tax Compliance: Essential for Filing Taxes with the FBR.
  4. Business Credibility: Builds trust with clients, suppliers, and investors.
  5. Access to Government Contracts: Only registered companies can participate.

SECP vs Provincial Business Registration in Pakistan

Many business owners confuse SECP registration with provincial registration. Understanding the difference is crucial:

AuthorityApplies ToPurpose
SECPPrivate Limited Companies, Single Member Companies, LLPsLegal incorporation under Companies Act 2017
Provincial Authorities (Punjab, Sindh, KP, Balochistan)Sole Proprietorships, PartnershipsBusiness identification & trade recognition

Company Registration Fees in Pakistan (Estimated for 2026)

Business TypeSECP Registration FeeAdditional Costs
Private Limited CompanyPKR 3,000 – 8,000Digital signature, name reservation
Single Member CompanyPKR 3,000 – 6,000Nominee registration
LLPPKR 5,000 – 10,000Partnership compliance
NGO / NPOPKR 5,000 – 10,000Licensing & tax exemptions

How to Download the Company Registration Certificate from SECP

  1. Visit the SECP eServices Portal
  2. Log in using your registered email and password
  3. Go to “My Companies”
  4. Select your registered company
  5. Click “Certificates”
  6. Download the Certificate of Incorporation

What to Do After Receiving Your Company Registration Certificate

After registration, companies must fulfill ongoing obligations:

  • Register with FBR for NTN
  • Open a corporate bank account
  • File annual returns with SECP
  • Maintain statutory records
  • Register for Sales Tax (if applicable)

FAQS: Company Registration Certificates

Register your company via the SECP online portal or the relevant provincial authority. Submit required documents, pay fees, and download your certificate once approved.

Typically 4–6 documents, depending on business type, including CNIC, proof of address, MOA/AOA, and partnership deed if applicable.

Use the SECP online search portal to verify your company’s registration number and details.

For companies, the Memorandum of Association (MOA) is critical as it defines the company’s objectives and legal powers.

Conclusion

Obtaining company registration certificates in Pakistan is a crucial step toward legal compliance and business credibility. 

Whether you are registering a Private Limited Company, Sole Proprietorship, or Partnership, following the SECP guidelines and preparing the necessary documents ensures a smooth process.

With online facilities provided by SECP, downloading and managing your certificates has never been easier. Always keep your certificates updated and use them for bank dealings, legal compliance, and building business credibility.