What Is The Process For Import/Export License For Company Registration In Pakistan?

In Pakistan, businesses involved in international trade are required to obtain an import/export license to operate legally. This license is not part of the basic company registration process but is a separate post-registration requirement for companies that intend to engage in import or export activities. The process involves Company Registration In Pakistan with several key government bodies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).

Step 1: Company Registration with SECP

Before applying for an import/export license, the business must be formally registered with the SECP. This involves:

1. Name Reservation: Apply online through the SECP’s eServices portal.

2. Submission of Documents: File incorporation documents such as the Memorandum and Articles of Association, Form 29, and Form A.

3. Company Incorporation Certificate: Upon approval, the SECP issues the Certificate of Incorporation.

At this stage, the company becomes a legal entity but is not yet authorized to import or export goods.

Step 2: Registration with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)

Once the company is registered with SECP, it must obtain a National Tax Number (NTN) from the FBR, which is essential for all commercial activities.

Company Registration In Pakistan

• Visit the FBR’s IRIS portal.

• Create a profile using company information and submit the required documents.

• After verification, the FBR issues the company’s NTN certificate.

The company must also register for Sales Tax if it deals with taxable goods.

Step 3: Registration with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Membership in a recognized Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a pre-condition for obtaining an import/export license. The process of Company Registration In Pakistan generally includes:

• Submitting the company’s incorporation certificate, NTN, and business profile.

• Paying the membership fee.

• Receiving a membership certificate, which is renewable annually.

Popular chambers include the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), and others depending on the region.

Step 4: Registration with Pakistan Customs (WeBOC)

The WeBOC (Web-Based One Customs) system is used by the Pakistan Customs for the clearance of goods. To operate as an importer or exporter, the company must be registered in the WeBOC system:

• Visit the nearest Customs Collectorate with the required documents:

  • SECP incorporation certificate

  • NTN certificate

  • Sales Tax registration

  • Bank account maintenance certificate

  • Chamber of Commerce membership

  • CNICs of directors

• After verification, the company is issued access credentials for the WeBOC system.

This system allows companies to electronically file Goods Declarations (GD), monitor shipments, and comply with import/export documentation requirements.

Step 5: Import/Export Code from the TDAP (if applicable)

Although TDAP no longer requires a separate Import/Export License as in the past, companies may still register with TDAP (Trade Development Authority of Pakistan) for sector-specific incentives, participation in trade fairs, or to meet the requirements of certain countries. Registration can be completed by submitting the company profile, bank certificate, and NTN to TDAP.

Optional Step: Sector-Specific Approvals

Some products and sectors—such as food items, pharmaceuticals, arms, or petroleum—require additional permissions from sector regulators like:

Company Registration In Pakistan

• DRAP for drugs and medical devices

• Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) for food and industrial goods

• Ministry of Commerce for restricted items

Conclusion

The process for obtaining an import/export license in Pakistan involves multiple steps after company registration. Starting with SECP incorporation, the business must secure NTN and Sales Tax registration from FBR, obtain Chamber of Commerce membership, and register on the WeBOC system for customs clearance by the help of Hamza & Hamza Law Associates. While a traditional import/export license is no longer issued by TDAP, registration with relevant authorities and compliance with customs regulations are crucial. By completing these steps, a company becomes fully authorized to engage in international trade, ensuring legal compliance and smooth operations.