When we start or plan to start a business, the first thing we do is choose a suitable name. This is an important first step because to give life to something, we must give it a name. As we know, a company is a separate legal and artificial person. Just like every person has a name for identity, a company also needs a name to be recognized. A good name shows what the business is about and what it stands for.
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If you are choosing a name for your company to register it in Pakistan with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), you should be careful. The name should clearly show the purpose of your business. It should be meaningful, attractive, and follow the legal rules set by SECP.
If you keep all these points in mind, your company name will have a strong chance of being approved and registered without any problem.
Here are some guidelines to consider when creating or evaluating potential names for your brand or business.
Be strategic: The name you’re considering conveys the intended message and evoke the right understanding.
Be creative: Do you think your potential brand name will catch people’s attention and stick in their minds? Does the name sound good, or is it fun to hear and say? Is it visually appealing?
Be technical: Is the potential name legally available and is this according to Law?
Choosing the best name for your company in Pakistan while complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP)’s requirements involves several key steps. Here’s a structured approach:
Understand SECP Naming Guidelines as per Company Law
SECP has specific rules for company names to avoid duplication, confusion, or misleading terms. Key requirements include:
- Uniqueness: The name should not match or closely resemble an existing registered company.
- No Offensive/Illegal Terms: Avoid names that are vulgar, offensive, or promote illegal activities.
- No Restricted Words: Certain words (e.g., “Bank,” “Insurance,” “Trust,” “Federal,” “National”) require additional approvals from relevant authorities.
- Proper Suffix: Must include the correct legal entity identifier (e.g., (Pvt) Ltd for private limited companies, (SMC-Pvt) Ltd for single-member companies)
Brainstorm & Shortlist Potential Names
- Relevance: Choose a name that reflects your business (e.g., “PakTech (Pvt) Ltd” for an IT firm/Company).
- Simplicity: Easy to spell, pronounce, and remember.
- Future-Proof: Avoid overly narrow names if you plan to expand into other sectors.
- Cultural & Linguistic Fit: Ensure it resonates well in Urdu/regional languages.
Check Name Availability via SECP’s Online Portal
- Visit LEAP or Search Company Name
- Use the “Company Name Reservation” feature to check availability.
- If the name is already taken, modify it (e.g., synonyms, abbreviations, or adding a unique word).
Ensure Compliance with Trademark Laws
- Check the IPO Pakistan trademark database (http://www.ipo.gov.pk) to avoid infringement.
- Registering a trademark later can protect your brand.
Reserve the Name (If Available)
- Once confirmed, apply for name reservation via SECP’s portal with a specified Fee.
- The reservation is valid for 60 days, during which you must complete company incorporation. Otherwise, after that it expires.
- Finalize & Register the Company
- After name approval, proceed with incorporation by submitting required documents (Memorandum & Articles of Association, forms, etc.).
- Pay the registration fee (varies based on authorized capital).
Pro Tips for a Strong Company Name
- Use Industry Keywords (e.g., “Logistics,” “Solutions,” “Industries” etc.).
- Add a Unique Element (e.g., “Zaitoon Foods” instead of just “Pak Foods”).
- Avoid showing connection to any past, present Leader of the world, Federal/Provencial/Local/Foreign Government or any corporation set up under them.
- Consider Domain Availability (Check if a matching .com.pk or .com domain is free).
Common Reasons for Name Rejection
- Already exists (even minor similarities can trigger rejection).
- Contains restricted words (e.g., “Engineering”, “Enterprises”, “Corporation” etc. may require proof of qualifications).
- Too generic (e.g., “Best Trading Company” may be rejected).
Next Steps about Name for Business or company
- Check SECP’s name availability tool.
- Reserve the name online.
- Complete incorporation within 60 days.
Struggling with Company name reservation and its registration process? Let our experts handle the hassle and ensure a smooth and stress-free registration of your business. Get in touch with Scounts (Pvt.) Limited today or call 0335-7193193 for hassle-free company name registration right fit for your business.
You can also visit https://leap.secp.gove.pk/#/landing-page for more details.