What To Do If Company Registration Is Delayed In Pakistan?

 Company Registration In Pakistan is generally a streamlined process, especially with the digital services provided by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). In many cases, businesses can expect registration to be completed within 1–3 working days. However, delays can still occur due to various reasons such as documentation issues, technical errors, or compliance concerns. When faced with a delay, it is important to understand the possible causes and the appropriate steps to take to resolve the issue.

1. Identify the Reason for the Delay

The first step is to determine why the registration process is taking longer than expected. Common reasons include:

  • Incomplete or incorrect documentation

  • Non-compliance with name reservation guidelines

  • Discrepancies in CNIC/passport information

  • Issues with digital signature verification

  • Payment processing delays

  • Technical glitches on the SECP eServices portal

To identify the specific cause, you can check the status of your application on the SECP’s eServices portal or review any communication sent to your registered email address.

2. Review Submission and Documentation

If SECP has raised any objections or returned the application for correction, carefully review the comments. Common corrective actions include:

  • Submitting missing forms (e.g., Form 29 or Form 21)

  • Updating incorrect director details

  • Amending the Memorandum or Articles of Association

  • Providing clearer or correctly formatted supporting documents

After making corrections, resubmit the application promptly to avoid further delay.

3. Contact SECP Directly

If the reason for delay is unclear or you're not receiving timely updates, it’s advisable to contact SECP directly. You can:

  • Call the SECP helpline 

  • Email the relevant regional office or the SECP contact centre

  • Use the “Complaints/Feedback” section on the SECP website

SECP representatives can help you understand the status of your application and guide you on the necessary steps to resolve the issue.

4. Use the SECP Facilitation Centers

SECP operates Business Facilitation Centers (BFCs) in major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. You can visit these centers for in-person assistance with:

  • Application tracking

  • Correction of filing errors

  • Resolving technical issues on the portal

  • Help with digital signatures or document uploads

BFC staff can often speed up the resolution process by providing hands-on support.

5. Verify Digital Signature and NIFT Issues

Delays may also occur if your digital signature certificate issued by NIFT (National Institutional Facilitation Technologies) has not been activated or verified. 

Company Registration In Pakistan

Make sure:

  • Your certificate is valid and correctly linked to your SECP account

  • The file is properly installed on your system

  • You have uploaded the digitally signed documents correctly

If necessary, contact NIFT support for technical assistance or to reissue your certificate.

6. Ensure Fee Payment is Completed

Check that the fee of Company Registration In Pakistan was successfully paid and received by SECP. If you paid via bank challan or online transfer, verify the status with your bank and ensure the payment reference is correctly attached to your application.

7. Escalate Through SECP Complaint System

If delays persist despite following all the above steps, you can formally escalate your issue through the SECP’s Service Desk Portal at websit. This portal allows you to:

  • Lodge complaints

  • Track complaint resolution

  • Receive updates from SECP officers

Timely escalation often leads to quicker resolution, especially in cases involving undue procedural delay.

8. Seek Legal or Professional Help

If the registration is critical to a business deadline (such as a contract, tender, or loan), and the delay continues without resolution, consider hiring a corporate lawyer or consultant who specializes in SECP processes. They can help expedite the process, draft responses to SECP objections, or act on your behalf with regulatory bodies.

Company Registration In Pakistan

Conclusion

While company registration in Pakistan is largely efficient, occasional delays can disrupt business plans. Understanding the root cause, maintaining open communication with SECP, and responding promptly to objections can help minimize registration setbacks. By taking proactive steps — including using facilitation centers, verifying payments, and seeking professional support like from Hamza & Hamza Law Associates if needed — entrepreneurs can navigate delays effectively and get their business up and running without unnecessary obstacles.

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