Registering a company in Pakistan while living abroad is more straightforward than most people expect. Whether you are an overseas Pakistani planning to invest back home or a foreign national entering the Pakistani market, the entire process can be completed remotely. This guide explains the company types, the SECP registration steps, the documents required, and how IMAAR International — the global business division of IMAAR Associates — manages it all on your behalf.
Which company structure should you choose?
Pakistan offers several business structures. The right one depends on ownership, liability and scale:
- Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd) — the most common choice for serious businesses and foreign investment; limited liability, separate legal identity, and up to 100% foreign ownership in most sectors
- Single Member Company (SMC) — a private limited company with one shareholder; ideal for solo overseas founders
- Association of Persons (AOP) / Partnership — suited to two or more partners sharing profits
- Sole Proprietorship — the simplest structure, registered through FBR for individuals
- Branch or Liaison Office — for an existing foreign company that wants a presence in Pakistan without forming a new entity
The SECP registration process, step by step
Company registration in Pakistan is handled by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and the core steps can all be done online:
- Name reservation — submit proposed company names to SECP for approval
- Document preparation — memorandum and articles of association, director and shareholder details, and registered office address
- Incorporation filing — submit the application through the SECP e-portal and pay the registration fee
- Certificate of incorporation — issued by SECP once approved
- FBR & NTN registration — obtain the company National Tax Number and register for income tax
- Sales tax & provincial registration — where applicable, register for sales tax with FBR or the relevant provincial authority
- Bank account opening — open a corporate bank account to begin operations
Can overseas Pakistanis and foreigners really do this remotely?
Yes. SECP supports fully online incorporation, which means you do not need to be physically present in Pakistan. For overseas Pakistanis, registration is possible using your CNIC or NICOP. For foreign nationals, a valid passport and the appropriate attestations are used. IMAAR International coordinates the filings, communicates with SECP and FBR, and keeps you updated by email and WhatsApp throughout — so distance and time zones are never an obstacle.
Documents you will typically need
- Valid passport (foreign nationals) or CNIC / NICOP (overseas Pakistanis)
- Proposed company name options
- Details of all directors and shareholders, with shareholding percentages
- Registered office address in Pakistan
- Proof of address and recent photographs where required
- For foreign investors: additional attestation and, in some sectors, regulatory approval
The exact requirements vary by structure and sector. We confirm a precise checklist for your situation before starting, so nothing causes a delay later.
Foreign investment: what you should know
Pakistan permits up to 100% foreign equity ownership in most sectors, subject to State Bank of Pakistan regulations and a small number of restricted or regulated industries. Repatriation of profits and capital is allowed through proper banking channels. Choosing the correct structure from the start — and registering it correctly with SECP, FBR and the State Bank where relevant — protects your investment and avoids costly corrections later.
How IMAAR International handles it for you
Through our company formation advisory, IMAAR International advises on structure and prepares each filing: name availability research, the SECP incorporation pack, NTN and tax registration, and ongoing accounting and payroll support once you are operating. For founders expanding further, we also offer USA LLC and Corporation registration. You deal with one trusted firm for everything, in Pakistan and internationally.
Frequently asked questions
Can an overseas Pakistani register a company without coming back?
Yes — SECP allows fully online incorporation, and we handle the filing remotely on your behalf.
Can a foreigner own a company in Pakistan?
Yes — up to 100% foreign ownership is permitted in most sectors, subject to State Bank and sector rules.
How long does it take?
A straightforward Private Limited registration usually takes a few working days after name approval and document readiness.
Ready to register your company in Pakistan? Speak to our team for a free consultation from anywhere in the world. Contact IMAAR International, the global business division of IMAAR Associates, or call +92 300 0839839.