SECP Company Name Check & Reservation in Pakistan: A Complete Guide
Choosing and reserving a unique company name is the first and most critical step in registering a business with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the SECP name check and reservation process, ensuring your business starts on a solid legal foundation.
Why Company Name Reservation Matters
Before registering a company, it’s essential to ensure that your desired name is available and complies with SECP regulations. A reserved name prevents duplication and legal conflicts, establishes brand identity, and is valid for 60 days, giving you time to complete the registration process.
Who Needs to Reserve a Company Name
Anyone intending to register the following business types under SECP must complete the name reservation:
Private Limited Company (Pvt Ltd)
Single Member Company (SMC)
Public Limited Company
Non-Profit Organizations (under Section 42)
Foreign Company (setting up branch office or liaison office)
SECP Company Name Check – Legal Rules to Follow
Before proposing a name to SECP, your name must comply with SECP’s Company Name Availability Guidelines. The name must not already exist in the SECP records. Avoid prohibited words like Government, Pakistan, Authority, Bank, unless prior NOC is obtained. Avoid religious, offensive, or blasphemous terms. Do not use abbreviations for generic names unless justified. Also, avoid trademark conflicts by checking the Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) of Pakistan.
Step-by-Step Process to Check and Reserve a Company Name with SECP
Create an Account on SECP eServices Portal
Go to the official SECP eServices portal. Sign up using your CNIC/NICOP, email address, mobile number, and password. Verify your account via email and SMS.
Log in and Select Company Name Reservation
Log in to your eServices account and select “Name Reservation” from the available services.
Enter Your Proposed Company Name
Type your desired name (without Pvt. Ltd. suffix). Use the built-in “Check Availability” tool to check whether the name exists.
Provide Business Details
Select your business sector. Enter the CNIC and contact information of the applicant. You may also enter the purpose or background of the name.
Pay Fee and Submit Application
Pay the name reservation fee (usually Rs. 1150 for local companies). You can pay online or download a challan to deposit in a bank. Upload documents and sign the form with your e-signature (PIN).
Receive Confirmation
Once approved, SECP issues a Name Reservation Certificate. This name remains reserved for 60 days.
What to Do After Name Reservation
Once your name is approved, proceed with incorporating your company. You must do this within 60 days. Steps include preparing the Memorandum and Articles of Association, appointing directors, submitting incorporation forms, and acquiring a digital signature. After verification, SECP issues a Certificate of Incorporation.
Where Else to Check Company Name Availability
Use the SECP eServices portal as your primary source. You may also cross-check against IPO Pakistan’s trademark registry. Avoid relying on unofficial name check tools, as they are not updated in real time.
Common Reasons SECP Rejects Company Names
The name is too similar to an existing registered company or trademark
Use of restricted words or misleading terms
Contains religious, blasphemous, or vulgar content
Abbreviated or overly generic names
Duplicate or multiple submissions under review
Benefits of Reserving a Company Name Through SECP
Grants legal recognition and protection to your brand identity
Reduces the risk of legal conflict with other companies
Mandatory for company registration and incorporation
Helps open a corporate bank account and file taxes
Creates business credibility in the eyes of clients and institutions
Conclusion
Checking and reserving your company name through SECP is the first step in building a legally recognized and trusted business in Pakistan. The process is now fully digital and can be completed within a day or two if all documents are in order. Follow the name rules, use the SECP portal, and act within the 60-day window to proceed with full incorporation. This small but vital step ensures your business starts with clarity, legality, and professional standing.
