Ensuring the authenticity of a company registration certificate is crucial for businesses and individuals who engage in commercial activities in Pakistan. A fake or fraudulent registration can lead to financial losses, legal complications, and reputational damage. Fortunately, several methods can help verify whether a company registration certificate is genuine. This article outlines the key steps to authenticate a Company Registration In Pakistan.
1. Check the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) Database
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) is the regulatory authority responsible for registering companies in Pakistan. It maintains an official online database where anyone can verify a company’s registration details.
Steps to Verify Through SECP
- Visit the SECP's eServices portal.
- Navigate to the Company Name Search section.
- Enter the company name or incorporation number as mentioned on the certificate.
- The system will display the company's official registration details, including its status, incorporation date, and registered office address.
If the company does not appear in SECP’s database, its registration certificate might be fake or the business may not be legally registered.
2. Verify Through the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)
Registered companies in Pakistan are required to obtain a National Tax Number (NTN) from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). If a company is officially registered, its details should be available in the FBR’s database.
Steps to Verify Through FBR
- Visit the FBR’s official website.
- Go to the Taxpayer Search section.
- Enter the company’s NTN or Registration Number.
- If the company is tax-registered, its details will be displayed, confirming its legitimacy.
A company with an SECP registration but no FBR record may not be compliant with tax laws, which is a red flag.
3. Cross-check with the Excise and Taxation Department
For companies that require sales tax registration, such as manufacturers and service providers, verification can also be done through the Excise and Taxation Department of the respective province. Each province has its website where tax records can be checked using the Sales Tax Registration Number (STRN).
4. Examine the Certificate for Security Features
A genuine company registration certificate issued by SECP has distinct features that indicate authenticity:
- Official SECP Logo: The certificate contains SECP’s official emblem.
- Unique Registration Number: Each company has a unique incorporation number that can be verified online.
- Signatures and Stamps: The certificate is signed by an authorized SECP official and contains official stamps.
- Digital Certification: Newer certificates are issued electronically with a QR code that can be scanned for verification.
If any of these features are missing or appear altered, the certificate may be fake.
5. Request Certified Copies From SECP
If there is any doubt about a Company Registration In Lahore an official certified copy of the certificate can be requested from SECP.
Process for Requesting Certified Copies
- Apply through the SECP eServices portal.
- Pay the required fee.
- SECP will provide an officially stamped certified copy of the company’s registration documents.
A certified copy guarantees that the registration is legitimate.
6. Consult a Corporate Lawyer or Legal Expert
If uncertainty persists, consulting a corporate lawyer can be beneficial. A legal expert can verify a company’s status through legal channels and assist in case of any fraudulent activity.
Conclusion
Verifying a company registration certificate in Pakistan with Hamza & Hamza Law Associates is essential for legal and financial security. The most reliable method is checking the SECP online database, followed by verifying tax registration through the FBR and Excise departments. Additionally, examining security features and requesting certified copies from SECP ensures authenticity. Businesses and individuals must always conduct thorough due diligence to avoid dealing with fraudulent companies.
