Introduction

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in Pakistani society, addressing various social, educational, and humanitarian causes. If you are passionate about making a difference and wish to start an NGO in Pakistan, this guide will walk you through the registration process step by step.

We provide expert guidance to help you register your NGO with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) through a structured and professional approach.

This article covers:

1. Overview of NGO Registration
2. Step-by-Step Registration Process
3. Regulatory Requirements
4. Conclusion

Let's begin!

1. Overview of NGO Registration

NGOs in Pakistan are registered under Section 42 of the Companies Act, 2017 with SECP. Upon approval, SECP issues a five-year license, which can be renewed after expiration.

2. Step-by-Step Registration Process

Registering an NGO involves three main steps:

Step 1: Name Availability

Choose a unique name for your NGO and verify its availability with SECP. You can check this in two ways:

a) Online via the SECP portal
b) Offline by submitting a physical application

If the name is available, SECP will issue a Name Availability Certificate.

Step 2: Application for License

Once you have the Name Availability Certificate, the next step is applying for a license grant from SECP. This application must include:

• Proof of fee payment
• Copy of Name Availability Certificate
• Draft Memorandum & Articles of Association
• List of promoters with their details
• Attested CNIC copies of promoters (or passport for foreigners)
• Declaration regarding the proposed NGO's compliance with legal provisions
• Undertaking from each promoter
• Estimated future annual income & expenditure
• Summary of prior and proposed activities
• Power of Attorney (Authority Letter)
• Resume of all promoters

After thorough verification, SECP grants the NGO license.

Step 3: Registering the NGO as a Company

With the license in hand, you must register your NGO as a company with SECP within three months.

3. Regulatory Requirements

After registering with SECP, you must obtain a Tax Exemption Certificate from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to qualify for tax-free donations and income.

Depending on your NGO’s scope, you may also need to register with relevant government bodies, such as education or health departments. The entire process requires patience and diligence, but with determination, you can create a meaningful impact in society.

Registering an NGO in Pakistan is a structured legal process that ensures transparency and credibility. By following the outlined steps and complying with regulatory requirements, you can establish a reputable organization that contributes

With extensive experience in corporate and tax consultancy, I am committed to guiding organizations toward legal compliance and operational excellence.