How to Register an NGO / NPO with SECP in Pakistan 2025. Step by Step Guide

Registering an NGO/NPO (Non-Governmental Organization/Non-Profit Organization) with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and Registrar of firms is an essential step to operate legally and access funding opportunities. This article provides a comprehensive guide for registering your NGO/NPO in 2025, including the process, required documents, and key considerations.

Step 1: Understand the Legal Framework

In Pakistan, NGO/NPOs are primarily registered under:

• The Companies Act, 2017 (as a Section 42 Company).
• Islamabad Capital Territory Charities Registration, Regulation and Facilitation Act, 2021 (for other types of organizations).

Registering as a Section 42 Company with SECP ensures compliance with corporate regulations and enhances credibility.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Before starting the registration process, gather the following documents requirement of NPO registration under section 42 of Companies Act 2017:

1. Copy of national identity card (NIC)/ NICOP/valid passport (in case of foreigner) of each promoter, proposed directors and proposed chief executive officer;
2. Curriculum vitae of each promoter, proposed directors and proposed chief executive officer as per Appendix-A to this Application;
3. An affidavit by each promoter, proposed directors and proposed chief executive officer as per Appendix-B to this Application;
4. A copy of the draft memorandum and articles of association as per Table F of the First Schedule to the Act;
5. A letter of authority on stamp paper of requisite value as per Appendix-C to this application by all the promoters in favor of either one of them or an authorized intermediary to present the application before the Commission on their behalf, and to make other amendments, additions, corrections etc., in the documents and also to collect license;
6. Copy of availability of name letter issued by the registrar indicating that the proposed name is available;
7. If the association is already registered under any other law for the time being in force, the following shall also be annexed with the application:

• • a copy of the audited balance sheet, income and expenditure account and the annual report on the working of the association for the financial year immediately preceding the date of the application;
  • copy of certificate of registration or any document evidencing registration under any other law, duly certified by relevant authority;
  • resolution of all existing members for the proposed change of status along with names of proposed members of the section 42 company being formed;
  • list of members of the association, duly certified by relevant authority;
  • latest copy of its constitution or charter or statute, duly certified by relevant authority;
  • list of all pending disputes among the members and pending court cases filed by or against the association with brief description thereof, if any.
  • Original challan or other evidence of payment of fee specified in Seventh Schedule of the Act (not applicable in case of online filing)

 8. Before starting the registration process, gather the following documents requirement of NPO            registration under section 42 of Companies Act 2017 Islamabad Capital Territory Charities   Registration, Regulation and Facilitation Act, 2021

1- Form B-

2- Original Constitution- at least three office bearers should sign every page

3-Complete details & CNIC of office bearers / General Body ( one set  attested by Gazetted officer and two set un attested copy )

4- List of three bearers duly signed with phone number ,email and permanent address as per CNIC

5- Original minutes of 1st meeting

6- Office of NGO shall be in commercial area complete address, office letter pad, website, telephone, fax number, email address, and lease agreement / ownership proof, utility bill etc

7- Foreign funding affidavit.