Starting a business in Pakistan means choosing a vehicle that fits tax, liability, and future investment plans. A private limited company is the default for many founders because it limits liability and speaks clearly to banks and partners. A sole proprietorship or registered firm under the Partnership Act, 1932 can still suit smaller operations if the risk profile matches.
The Companies Act, 2017 and SECP online processes govern incorporation, name reservation, and post-incorporation filings. Foreign companies often need a branch or liaison permission, not only a local incorporation. Parallel registration with the Federal Board of Revenue for a National Tax Number is part of practical setup, not an afterthought.
We also coordinate trademark basics with formation where the brand is central to the business.
What We Handle
- Private limited company incorporation and statutory registers under the Companies Act, 2017
- Single member company conversion and compliance with SECP form requirements
- Partnership deed drafting and registration where clients choose a firm structure
- Association of persons documentation and clarity on profit-sharing and authority
- Branch and liaison office applications for foreign companies alongside local counsel instructions
- Founder, shareholder, and investment agreements tied to the chosen vehicle
- FBR NTN registration guidance and coordination with your accountant on withholding labels
- Trademark search and filing with IPO Pakistan in parallel with entity setup when needed
Our Approach
We map who will own shares, who will sit on the board, and how decisions will be recorded. SECP expects clean digital submissions and timely annual returns. Getting the memorandum and articles right avoids fights later when a new investor appears.
Where the Partnership Act, 1932 applies, we spell out capital contributions, profit ratios, retirement, and dissolution. Many disputes come from silent assumptions. We prefer explicit clauses and signed minutes.
For foreign parents, we align Pakistan setup with home-country governance and transfer-pricing documentation your group already uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does SECP incorporation take?
Online name clearance and incorporation can move quickly when documents are complete. Delays usually come from name clashes or incomplete subscriber data. We tell you the checklist up front so you are not cycling rejections.
Do I need a lawyer if SECP forms look simple?
Forms are only part of the job. Shareholder agreements, director duties, and future funding rounds need language that matches your commercial plan. Cheap templates often miss Pakistan-specific points on stamp duty, filing timelines, and director authority.
Can a foreign person own 100 percent of a local company?
Often yes in permitted sectors, but sector policy and investment reporting still matter. We review your sector and shareholding plan before you lock subscription money.
Should I register a trademark at the same time?
If the brand has value, yes. IPO Pakistan works on a first-to-file basis in practice for many marks. Early filing reduces the risk that a competitor registers a similar mark.
Call us or send a message. First consultation is free.