Bank want to see your updated company profile. FBR want to see your incorporation documents and you are involved in court proceedings and need to provide director information.
In all these situations you will need:
SEPC Certified True Copies
This article will explain what Certified True Copies (CTCs) are, what documents you can ask to see and how to apply for them online.
What are SECP Certified True Copies?
Certified True Copies are copies of company documents which have been issued and certified by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
They confirm that this document is a true reflection of the documents held on file by the SECP in accordance to the Companies Act 2017.
Who needs Certified True Copies?
- Commercial Banks – Opening Account and KYC Updates
- FBR – Registration and Corporate Tax
- IPO-Pakistan – Trademark ownership
- Courts – Dispute
- Investors / Counterparties – Due Diligence
- Government Departments – Tenders/Licences
No more waiting in queue at the CRO.
Previously you would have to go to the Company Registration Office (CRO) to obtain your documents with stamp.
Now you can apply online at SECP. This saves you time and effort and means you don’t have to use a courier to collect anything.
What Documents Can I Request?
The most common documents requested are:
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Form 29 (return of directors and officers now known as Form 9 in the Companies Regulations, 2024)
- Form A (annual return)
- Notice of Registered Address/Address Change (Traditionally Form 21)
- Other returns and statutory forms filed.
Only documents that have been filed can be requested.
How To Apply Online For CTCs
SECP introduced their new eZfile (LEAP) portal in 2024 however many people still refer to it as SECP eServices. Menu selections subject to change.
Log In
- Visit the online portal eZfile.
- Login using your registered CNIC/NICOP and password.
Find Your Company
- Search for your company using the name or CUIN (Corporate Unique Identification Number).
- Ensure you have the correct company.
Apply For Certified True Copy
- Click on the option to apply for a Certified True Copy of a form/document.
Select Required Documents
- Select the documents you need from your company’s filed documents.
- You may have to make an application for each document.
- Ensure the correct version of the document has been selected i.e. the most up to date Form 29/Form 9 if there have been any changes to directors.
Create Challan and Pay
- Create the challan.
- Pay online by card, bank transfer or visit a designated bank branch.
Typical charges for applying online – Note these may be subject to change by SECP.
| Document | Approximate Charges |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Incorporation | PKR100 |
| Memorandum and Articles (Private Company) | PKR250 |
| Memorandum and Articles (Other Companies) | About PKR500 |
| Returns (Form A, Form 29 etc.) | About PKR100 – 200 |
| Extracts | About PKR20 Per Page (Minimum Charge) |
Much higher charges apply if requested offline at the SECP office. Always ensure you know exactly what you are paying by looking at the challan.
Complete and Submit
- Complete the application by signing with your SECP PIN.
- Submit the application and take note of the reference number.
Processing Times and Downloading
Processing times
- Usually take a few working days after payment has been confirmed.
- Often quick if simple.
- You will usually receive an email to say they are ready.
Download
- Log into the portal.
- View your submitted applications or filing history.
- Order your certified copy.
Will the bank accept it?
The SECP has a portal for the certification of copies which is accepted by most banks and government offices. However some institutions may still require a physical copy with a stamp. Always check with the bank/office.
Top Tips
- Apply for all documents at once.
- Ensure your company is up to date. CTCs will only show what is on file with the SECP.
- If you have recently changed your directors, wait until the new return has been accepted before applying for your CTC.
- Store your downloaded documents safely as often the bank will ask again when it comes to renewal.
Common Errors
- Wrong company selected or incorrect version of document.
- Applying for a CTC before a recent filing has been approved.
- Assuming all institutions will accept the downloaded copy.
- Not checking the charge on the challan.
