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Register a company

How to register a private limited or single member company with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and how to change company details later.

Last reviewed 11 October 2026

Companies in Pakistan are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). You can register and manage a company online through the SECP's LEAP portal.

Choose a type of company

The most common types for small businesses are:

  • Single member company (SMC): a private limited company owned by one person. You also need to name a nominee who takes over if the owner dies or cannot act.
  • Private limited company: owned by two or more members, whose liability is limited to their shares.

Sole traders and partnerships do not need to register with the SECP, but still need to register for tax.

Before you start

You will need:

  • a valid CNIC for each director and member (or a passport for foreign nationals)
  • a mobile number registered against your CNIC
  • an email address
  • a registered office address in Pakistan
  • the details of your nominee, if you are setting up an SMC

Register online

  1. Create an account on the LEAP portal. You get a PIN by SMS and email, which you use to sign documents electronically.
  2. Reserve a name for your company. You can do this on its own or as part of the incorporation application.
  3. Fill in the incorporation application, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and director and member details.
  4. Pay the fee online.

If your application is approved, the SECP issues a certificate of incorporation. Fees depend on the type of company and its capital, so check the current fee on the SECP website.

SECP LEAP portal (opens in new tab)

After registration

After your company is registered:

  • get a National Tax Number (NTN) from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)
  • open a bank account in the company's name
  • file the SECP's annual returns on time

Change company details

You must tell the SECP about changes to your company, such as a new registered office address, changes to directors, or a change of name. Most changes can be filed online through LEAP, and each type of change has its own form and deadline.