Section 42 is a corporate route for associations formed for charitable and not-for-profit objects and is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan.
A licence comes before incorporation
An association seeking to incorporate under Section 42 must first obtain the required licence from SECP. The application should reflect the organisation’s real objects, governance and proposed activities.
Prepare the governance model carefully
The proposed board, membership arrangements, financial controls and constitutional objects should be clear before the licensing documents are filed.
Use current SECP guidance
SECP updated its Section 42 guidebook in 2026. Applicants should rely on the latest SECP forms, regulations and guidance rather than old checklists.
Compliance continues after incorporation
A Section 42 company remains subject to company-law and governance obligations after incorporation. Tax status, foreign funding and other registrations may involve separate legal requirements.
Related service
See Section 42 Company Registration.
Official references
This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice for a specific matter. Requirements should be checked against the law and regulatory guidance in force at the time.