+92 21 3587 4210 Free Consultation
Home / Business Structures
Before you register

Which business structure fits you?

Every registration starts with this choice. Compare liability, ownership, and setup requirements side by side, then talk to us before you file anything.

Sole Proprietorship

Unlimited liability
  • Owners 1 (you)
  • Registered with FBR (NTN only)
  • Setup time Same day – 2 days
  • Ongoing filing Individual income tax return only
Best for: freelancers and small traders just starting out, who don't yet need a separate legal entity.

Partnership (AOP)

Unlimited, shared liability
  • Owners 2+ partners
  • Registered with Registrar of Firms + FBR
  • Setup time 3–7 business days
  • Ongoing filing AOP return + partner returns
Best for: two or more people running a business together without incorporating, e.g. professional practices.
Most common

Private Limited (Pvt Ltd)

Limited to shares held
  • Owners 2+ shareholders, 2+ directors
  • Registered with SECP (Companies Act 2017)
  • Setup time 2–7 business days online
  • Ongoing filing Form A/B annually, Form 29 on changes
Best for: startups and SMEs that want limited liability, credibility with banks/investors, and room to bring in partners later.

Single Member Company (SMC)

Limited to shares held
  • Owners 1 shareholder, 1 director (can be same person)
  • Registered with SECP (Companies Act 2017)
  • Setup time 2–7 business days online
  • Ongoing filing Form A/B annually, Form 29 on changes
Best for: solo founders who want limited liability and corporate credibility without bringing in a second shareholder.

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

Limited to capital contributed
  • Owners 2+ partners
  • Registered with SECP (LLP Act 2017)
  • Setup time 3–7 business days
  • Ongoing filing Annual statement of accounts & solvency
Best for: professional services firms (consultants, agencies) wanting partnership flexibility with limited liability protection.

Public Limited Company

Limited to shares held
  • Owners 3+ directors, 7+ shareholders
  • Registered with SECP (Companies Act 2017)
  • Setup time 2–3 weeks, more if listing
  • Ongoing filing Full statutory audit, quarterly & annual accounts
Best for: larger businesses planning to raise capital from the public or list on the Pakistan Stock Exchange.
Still deciding?

Most first-time founders land on one of two options

A Private Limited company if you'll have co-founders or plan to raise investment; a Single Member Company if you're going solo and want the same legal protection. Both register through SECP's eServices portal and both can convert into the other structure later if your plans change.

Talk to a Consultant See Registration Services
Call WhatsApp Contact