Business Licenses and Permits in Pakistan – How to Obtain One?

Starting an untraditional business requires more than a registration, for this you need to obtain business licenses and permits prior to business registration.

Business license and permit is a government document which certifies a business is safe for the environment and public.

Business licenses and permits are mandatory for compliance with laws and regulating commercial activities. Additionally it ensures and maintains public safety and order.

The nature of licenses and permits depends upon the kind of business you operate and where you operate it.

In this guide you will understand business licenses, permits, and how to obtain them.

Types of Business Licenses & Permits

1. Trade License:

• It is issued by local municipal authorities.
• It is essential for retail and wholesale business.

2. Professional License:

• It is issued for professions such as doctors, lawyers, accountants, and etc.
• It is issued by professional governing bodies.

3. Import and Export License:

• It is necessary for those involved in international trade business.
• It is issued by the ministry of commerce.

4. Health and Safety Permits:

• It is essential for those businesses involved in the food, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors.
• It is issued by the provincial healthcare departments and the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA).

5. Environmental Permits:

• It is required by the business that could impact the environment.
• It is issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Obtaining Business Licenses and Permits:   

It depends on your business structure and its specific requirements, Apply for licenses and permits accordingly.

Trade License:

You need to apply at your local municipal corporation and district council.

Professional License:

You need to contact the profession governing body, for instance Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) for doctors or the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) for lawyers.

Import and Export License:

You need to contact the ministry of commerce.

Health and Permits Permits:

You need to apply to the provincial health departments and the PSQCA.

Environmental Permits:

You need to submit an application to the EPA.

Complying with Industry-Specific Regulations:

Different industries in Pakistan have particular regulatory requirements. So make sure that you must be mindful of these and also comply with it.

Keeping your Licenses and Permits Updated:

Business Licenses and Permits frequently require updates. You need to timely monitor changes and expiration dates to avoid any issues. In case of non-compliance, it can lead you to fines and business closure.     

Going through the process of obtaining licenses and permits in Pakistan is not easy at all, but it is also crucial in establishing a legally compliant and safety ensured business.

By understanding and following the given guidelines you can make sure that your business operates smoothly and hassle-free within the legal and safety-oriented framework.   

Every business is unique with its own specific requirements, So if you want your business to be fully compliant with all regulations then you can consult with Befiler’s professionals.