How To Register NGO In Pakistan ?
Registering an NGO in Pakistan: A Step-by-Step Guide
Establishing a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Pakistan is a noble way to contribute to social welfare. Many NGOs operate in areas such as healthcare, education, and charity, playing a crucial role in serving society. If you’re planning to start your own non-profit organization, this guide will walk you through the registration process seamlessly.
Types of NGO Registration in Pakistan
In Pakistan, you can choose between two types of registration for your organization:
- Non-Profit Organization: Register with the Ministry of Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal (SWB).
- Charitable Organization: Register with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
How to Register an NGO in Pakistan
Registering an NGO in Pakistan involves several steps and adherence to specific legal requirements. Here’s a detailed process:
Procedure for NGO Registration
Obtain the Model Constitution:
- Pay the requisite fee and get a receipt.
- Collect the Model Constitution and necessary application forms from the Deputy Director of Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal in your district.
Visit the Area Office:
- Submit your application to the appropriate Area Office as directed.
Feasibility Report Preparation:
- An area officer will visit your NGO’s headquarters to prepare a feasibility report.
Submission to Deputy Director:
- The area officer submits the registration case to the Deputy Director of Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal.
Special Recommendation:
- The Deputy Director visits your NGO, prepares a report, and if satisfied, recommends your case to the concerned Divisional Director, Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal.
Divisional Director’s Review:
- The Divisional Director reviews the registration application. If satisfied, they provide a Special Recommendation and forward it to the Directorate General of Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal, Punjab. If not, they communicate their concerns to the Deputy Director.
Verification by Special Branch of Police:
- The Divisional Director may instruct the Deputy Director to verify information about NGO members with the Special Branch of Police.
Deputy Director’s Submission:
- The Deputy Director (NGOs) reviews the paperwork and submits the case.
Approval or Disapproval:
- The Director General of Social Welfare and Bait-ul-Maal, Punjab approves or disapproves the NOC application based on the findings.
Issuance of NOC:
- Upon approval, the Deputy Director (NGOs) issues the NOC and submits the registration case.
Issuance of Registration Certificate:
- The Deputy Director issues a registration certificate under the specified format.
Record Keeping:
- A copy of the registration certificate and verified documents is sent to the Divisional Director and the Deputy Director (NGOs) for records.
Documents Required for Registration
- List of Members
- Financial Statements (SECP)
- Audited Accounts (SECP)
- Copy of By-Laws
- Proof of Address
- Copies of Permits
Legal Framework for NGO Registration in Pakistan
Different laws govern the registration of NGOs in Pakistan, including:
The Societies Registration Act, 1860
- Purpose: Charitable activities, promotion of science, literature, fine arts, and maintenance of libraries and museums.
- Requirements: Minimum of seven members.
The Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies Ordinance, 1961
- Purpose: Voluntary social services including child welfare, youth welfare, and women’s welfare.
- Dependence: Government aid and donations.
The Trust Act, 1882
- Purpose: Creation of public charitable trusts, either movable or immovable, temporary or permanent.
The Companies Act, 2017
- Purpose: Serving the public, mutual benefit of a group, promoting arts, science, religion, sports, social services, and charity.
Required Documents for Registration Under Respective Acts
| Act | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| The Societies Registration Act, 1860 | Memorandum of Association, Articles of Association, Attested CNIC copies of all members, Correspondence email, phone, website, list of office bearers, property papers or lease agreement. |
| The Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies Ordinance, 1961 | Constitution of the Agency, Form B signed, Attested CNIC copies, first meeting minutes, registered address, correspondence details, list of members, property papers. |
| The Trust Act, 1882 | Trust deed, property details, objectives, particulars of trustees and beneficiaries, ownership proof. |
| The Companies Act, 2017 | Name, bank challans for registration and license, list of promoters and their CNICs, NGO details, promoters’ undertakings, mission statement, resumes of promoters. |
Departments Involved in the Registration Process
Two main departments oversee the registration and monitoring of NGOs in Pakistan:
- The Ministry of Social Welfare and Special Education
- The Provincial Social Welfare Department
In Karachi, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issues licenses to NGOs. While many NGOs operate without registration, it is advisable to get your NGO registered to enjoy the benefits and avoid potential inconveniences.
By following these steps and ensuring compliance with the relevant legal requirements, you can successfully register your NGO in Pakistan and start making a meaningful impact in your chosen field of social welfare.