Looking for a detailed guide on how to start an NGO in Pakistan? Then you are at the right place!
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on registering an NGO in Pakistan, outlining the necessary steps and requirements to start the registration process effectively and ethically.
We will provide the following information:
- What is an NGO and how does it work?
- Types of NGOs and requirements to register a particular NGO.
- Province-wise guides on how to register NGO.
- Lastly, we will address the most important queries about registering an NGO in Pakistan.
That being said, let’s start our guide!
Recommended Reading:
- Kashf Foundation Loan Apply Online (15K-3Lakh)
- Aman Foundation Ambulance (Services+Helpline)
- List Of 11+ Welfare Organizations In Pakistan
How To Start An NGO In Pakistan | How To Register Welfare Foundation In Pakistan
What is an NGO?
An NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) is a non-profit, voluntary group that operates independently from government control. NGOs work on various causes, including:
- Poverty alleviation
- Education
- Healthcare
- Women’s rights
- Environmental protection
- Human rights advocacy
NGOs rely on donations, grants, and volunteer efforts to achieve their goals
.
Types of NGOs in Pakistan
NGOs in Pakistan can be categorized based on their structure and focus:
A. By Registration Type
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Trust | Registered under the Trust Act 1882, managed by trustees. |
| Society | Registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860, requires at least seven members. |
| Section 42 Company | Registered under the Companies Act 2017 as a non-profit company. |
B. By Focus Area
- Advocacy NGOs (Human rights, policy change)
- Operational NGOs (Direct service delivery like healthcare, education)
- Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) (Local-level initiatives)
Legal Requirements for Registering an NGO
To operate legally in Pakistan, an NGO must be registered under one of the following:
- Societies Registration Act 1860 (For societies)
- Trust Act 1882 (For trusts)
- Companies Act 2017 (Section 42) (For non-profit companies)
- Voluntary Social Welfare Agencies (Registration & Control) Ordinance 1961 (For welfare NGOs)
Additionally, NGOs must comply with:
- Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) (If working in poverty reduction)
- SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan) (For Section 42 companies)
- FBR (Federal Board of Revenue) (For tax exemptions)
Step-by-Step Process to Register an NGO in Pakistan
Step 1: Define Your Mission & Objectives
- Clearly outline your NGO’s purpose.
- Identify target beneficiaries.
Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure
- Decide between a Trust, Society, or Section 42 Company.
Step 3: Name Your NGO
- Ensure the name is unique and not already registered.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
(See Section 5 for details)
Step 5: Register with the Relevant Authority
- For Societies: Submit documents to the Registrar of Societies in your province.
- For Trusts: Register with the local Trust office.
- For Section 42 Companies: Register with SECP.
Step 6: Obtain Tax Exemptions
- Apply for tax-exempt status from the FBR.
Step 7: Open a Bank Account
- Use registration documents to open an NGO bank account.
Step 8: Apply for Funding & Grants
- Explore local and international donor opportunities.
Documents Required for NGO Registration
| Registration Type | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Society | – Memorandum of Association – Articles of Association – List of members (minimum 7) – Minutes of the first meeting – Fee payment receipt |
| Trust | – Trust deed – Details of trustees – Objectives of the trust – Registration fee |
| Section 42 Company | – Application to SECP – Memorandum & Articles of Association – List of directors – Declaration of compliance |
Cost of Registering an NGO in Pakistan
The cost varies based on the registration type:
- Society Registration: PKR 5,000 – PKR 20,000
- Trust Registration: PKR 10,000 – PKR 30,000
- Section 42 Company: PKR 50,000 – PKR 100,000
Additional costs may include legal fees, notarization, and bank charges.
Funding and Sustainability for NGOs
NGOs in Pakistan can secure funds through:
A. Local Sources
- Corporate donations
- Government grants
- Crowdfunding
B. International Sources
- USAID
- UNDP
- World Bank grants
- European Union funding
C. Income-Generating Activities
- Social enterprises
- Training programs
- Membership fees (for certain NGOs)
Challenges Faced by NGOs in Pakistan
- Bureaucratic hurdles in registration
- Limited funding opportunities
- Lack of public trust
- Security risks in conflict zones
- Regulatory scrutiny from government bodies
Best Practices for Running a Successful NGO
✅ Transparency & Accountability – Maintain clear financial records.
✅ Strong Governance – Form a competent board of directors.
✅ Effective Fundraising – Diversify funding sources.
✅ Community Engagement – Involve locals in decision-making.
✅ Impact Measurement – Track progress with KPIs.
All You Need To Know About Starting An NGO In Pakistan (Q&A)
Starting an NGO in Pakistan is a noble initiative that can bring positive change to society. However, the process involves legal, financial, and operational considerations. Below, we answer the most common questions about launching an NGO in Pakistan.
How Much Money Is Required to Start an NGO in Pakistan?
The cost of starting an NGO in Pakistan depends on its legal structure:
| Type of NGO | Estimated Cost (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Society (Under Societies Act 1860) | 5,000 – 20,000 |
| Trust (Under Trust Act 1882) | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Section 42 Company (Under SECP) | 50,000 – 100,000 |
Additional Costs:
- Legal fees (if hiring a lawyer)
- Notarization & documentation
- Bank account opening charges
- Office setup (optional)
Note: Smaller NGOs can start with minimal funds, while larger ones may require significant capital for operations.
How Can I Start My Own NGO in Pakistan?
Follow these steps to establish your NGO:
- Define Your Mission – Decide on the cause (education, health, poverty, etc.).
- Choose a Legal Structure – Society, Trust, or Section 42 Company.
- Select a Unique Name – Ensure it’s not already registered.
- Gather Required Documents (MoA, AoA, member list, etc.).
- Register with Authorities (Registrar of Societies, SECP, or Trust Office).
- Obtain Tax Exemptions (From FBR).
- Open a Bank Account – For NGO transactions.
- Start Fundraising – Apply for grants and donations.
How Can I Start a Local NGO?
A local NGO (Community-Based Organization – CBO) focuses on a specific area. Steps:
- Identify a Local Issue (e.g., clean water, women’s empowerment).
- Form a Small Team (5-7 members).
- Register as a Society (Simpler than a Trust or Section 42).
- Partner with Local Leaders for credibility.
- Start Small Projects before scaling up.
How Does an NGO Work in Pakistan?
NGOs operate through:
- Projects & Programs (Education, healthcare, disaster relief).
- Fundraising (Donations, grants, sponsorships).
- Volunteers & Staff (Paid or unpaid workers).
- Monitoring & Evaluation (Tracking impact).
Example: An NGO providing free education may:
- Secure funding from donors.
- Hire teachers & rent a school space.
- Enroll underprivileged children.
- Report progress to stakeholders.
Where Are NGOs Registered in Pakistan?
| Type of NGO | Registering Authority |
|---|---|
| Society | Registrar of Societies (Provincial) |
| Trust | Local Trust Office / Sub-Registrar |
| Section 42 Company | Securities & Exchange Commission (SECP) |
| Welfare NGO | Social Welfare Department |
What Type of NGO Is Best?
The best type depends on your goals:
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Society | Small to medium NGOs with 7+ members |
| Trust | Family-run or endowment-based NGOs |
| Section 42 Company | Large NGOs seeking international funding |
Recommendation:
- Local projects? → Society
- Long-term endowment? → Trust
- Large-scale operations? → Section 42 Company
How Can I Start a Small NGO in Pakistan?
Starting a small NGO is easier with these steps:
- Keep Initial Costs Low – Work from home, use volunteers.
- Register as a Society (Cheaper than a Trust or Company).
- Focus on One Cause (e.g., street children’s education).
- Use Social Media for awareness & fundraising.
- Apply for Small Grants (Local donors, CSR funds).
What Is the Difference Between a Trust and an NGO in Pakistan?
| Feature | Trust | NGO (Society/Section 42) |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Basis | Trust Act 1882 | Societies Act 1860 / Companies Act 2017 |
| Management | Trustees (usually family/friends) | Elected governing body |
| Registration Cost | PKR 10,000 – 30,000 | PKR 5,000 – 100,000 |
| Flexibility | Less flexible (asset-focused) | More flexible (project-based) |
| Best For | Family donations, property management | Community projects, large-scale operations |
How to Register a Trust in Pakistan?
- Draft a Trust Deed (Objectives, trustees, assets).
- Get Witnesses (2+ required).
- Submit to Sub-Registrar (With fee & ID proofs).
- Receive Registration Certificate.
- Open a Bank Account (In the trust’s name).
Required Documents:
- CNIC copies of the trustees
- Trust deed on stamp paper
- Witness affidavits
Starting an NGO in Pakistan requires planning, legal compliance, and dedication. Whether you choose a Society, Trust, or Section 42 Company, ensure proper registration and transparency.
💡 Pro Tip: Start small, build credibility, and then expand.
FAQs | Starting an NGO
Can an Individual Start an NGO Alone?
Yes, but registration requires at least 7 members for a Society or 2 trustees for a Trust.
Do NGOs Need Government Approval?
Yes, registration is mandatory. Some NGOs also need NOC from the Interior Ministry for foreign funding.
Can NGOs Make a Profit?
No, but they can generate income through social enterprises (profits must fund the NGO’s mission).
How Long Does Registration Take?
Society: 4-8 weeks
Trust: 2-4 weeks
Section 42 Company: 6-8 weeks
How long does NGO registration take?
Society: 4–8 weeks
Trust: 2–4 weeks
Section 42 Company: 6–8 weeks
Do NGOs pay taxes in Pakistan?
Registered NGOs can apply for tax exemptions under the Income Tax Ordinance 2001.
How can an NGO get funding in Pakistan?
Sources include:
Local donors (corporates, individuals).
International grants (USAID, UNDP, EU).
Government schemes (PPAF, BISP).
What is the difference between an NGO and a Trust?
NGO (Society/Section 42): Project-based, member-driven.
Trust: Asset-focused, managed by trustees (often family-run).
How to check if an NGO is legally registered?
Verify via:
SECP’s online portal (for Section 42 Companies).
Provincial Registrar of Societies.
Trust Office records.
Final Tips:
✅ Start small to test your model.
✅ Maintain transparency to build trust.
✅ Network with donors early.
🔹 Need help drafting your NGO’s legal documents? Contact a legal expert today!
🔹 Share this guide with aspiring changemakers!
![NGO-Contact-Number-In-Pakistan-[Helpline+Address]](https://governmentschemes.pk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/NGO-Contact-Number-In-Pakistan-HelplineAddress-768x628.jpg "NGO Contact Number In Pakistan 2025 (500+) [Helpline+Address] 7")