Starting a business in Pakistan requires proper registration to operate legally and benefit from government incentives. At ASCO Tax Consultants, we provide comprehensive assistance to entrepreneurs looking to register their startups efficiently. This guide covers the process, required documents, fees, and benefits of registering a startup in Pakistan.

Why Register Your Startup?

Registering your business offers several advantages:

• Legal recognition and protection
• Ability to open a business bank account
• Access to government incentives and tax benefits
• Credibility with customers and investors
• Protection of brand identity

Types of Business Registrations in Pakistan

Depending on your business structure, you can register under:

• Sole Proprietorship – Ideal for small-scale businesses with single ownership.
• Partnership Firm – For businesses with two or more partners, registered under the Partnership Act, 1932.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – The most popular structure, registered under SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan).
• Public Limited Company – Suitable for large-scale businesses planning to raise capital from the public.
• NGO/Non-Profit Organization – Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.

Documents Required for Startup Registration

The documentation varies based on the type of business, but the general requirements include:

• For Sole Proprietorship:
  • CNIC copy of the owner
  • Business name and address proof
  • NTN (National Tax Number) registration
• For Partnership Firm:
  • Partnership deed signed by all partners
  • CNIC copies of all partners
  • Business address proof
  • NTN registration
• For Private Limited Company:
  • Proposed company name (must be unique)
  • Memorandum & Articles of Association
  • CNIC copies of directors and shareholders
  • Registered office address
  • Bank account details (for capital deposit)
  • SECP incorporation certificate

Registration Process

1. Name Reservation – Choose and reserve a unique business name through SECP.
2. Obtain Digital Signatures – Required for filing incorporation documents.
3. Submit Registration Application – Provide the necessary documents and application to SECP or FBR (for sole proprietorships).
4. Issuance of Incorporation Certificate – SECP reviews and issues the company’s incorporation certificate.
5. NTN Registration – Register with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to obtain an NTN for tax compliance.
6. Sales Tax Registration (If Applicable) – Required for businesses dealing in taxable goods and services.
7. Bank Account Opening – Use incorporation documents to open a business bank account.
8. Additional Licensing (If Needed) – Some industries require additional permits and approvals (e.g., food businesses, import/export firms).

Cost & Processing Time

• Sole Proprietorship: 7-10 days, cost around PKR 5,000-10,000
• Partnership Firm: 10-15 days, cost around PKR 15,000-25,000
• Private Limited Company: 2-3 weeks, cost varies (approx. PKR 30,000-50,000 depending on share capital)

Benefits of Registering with ASCO Tax Consultants

• Expert guidance on selecting the right business structure
• Hassle-free document preparation and submission
• Assistance in obtaining NTN, sales tax registration, and licensing
• Compliance advisory to ensure your startup meets legal requirements
• Ongoing tax and financial advisory for sustainable growth

Get Started Today!

Setting up your startup doesn’t have to be overwhelming. ASCO Tax Consultants simplifies the registration process, ensuring your business is legally compliant and ready for success. Contact us today to get expert assistance with your startup registration in Pakistan!