Company closure & strike-off
Winding up a dormant company properly, including final returns and SECP strike-off application.
Overview
Closing a company properly so directors aren't left with penalties. Depending on its position, a company can apply for inactive status, use the easy exit for defunct companies, or be wound up.
Why it matters
Closing a company properly ends its SECP and FBR obligations. Simply stopping operations leaves annual filing duties and penalties running, and directors remain responsible.
Who needs this
- Companies that have stopped trading
- Holding companies with no activity
- Owners who want to keep the name for later (inactive status)
How it works
Who does each step, and how long it usually takes once documents are complete.
- 1Closure reviewTAXWORK
Assets, liabilities and pending filings identified, and the right route chosen.
1–2 days - 2Pending filingsTAXWORK
Missing SECP returns and tax filings completed.
1–3 weeks - 3ResolutionsYou
Board and members approve.
1 day - 4Easy exit applicationTAXWORK
Filed with the fee under s.426 if there are no assets or liabilities.
1 day - 5Gazette noticeSECP
Name struck off unless someone objects; dissolution published in the Gazette.
90 days - 6Tax closureTAXWORK
NTN and sales tax registration closed.
Parallel
Documents we need
Tick what you already have, then send the list to us.
Which company type fits you?
Under the Companies Act 2017 (sections 2(49), 14, 42, 154 and 247) and the LLP Act 2017.
| Type | Members | Directors | Liability | Auditor | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single member company | 1 | 1 + nominee | Limited by shares | CMA or CA if paid-up capital under Rs 3M | Solo founders |
| Private limited | 2 to 50 | 2 | Limited by shares | CMA or CA if paid-up capital under Rs 3M | Startups and family businesses |
| Public (unlisted) | 3 or more | 3 | Limited by shares | Chartered accountant | Raising capital from many investors |
| Listed company | 3 or more | 7 | Limited by shares | Chartered accountant | Public share trading on PSX |
| Limited by guarantee | Members | 2 or 3 | Up to the guarantee | As per company type | Associations and clubs |
| Section 42 NPO | 3 or more | As per type | Licensed, no profit distribution | Chartered accountant | Charities and foundations |
| LLP | 2 or more partners | Designated partners | Limited for partners | As required | Professional firms, joint ventures |
| Foreign branch / liaison | Foreign parent | Authorised person | Parent's liability | Chartered accountant | Foreign companies entering Pakistan |
What you receive
- Easy exit or strike-off application
- Final tax filings
- Gazette notice of dissolution
Deadlines, risks and penalties
- Directors' and officers' liabilities continue after dissolution (s.426(3))
- Abandoning a company leaves directors exposed to notices and penalties
Mistakes we fix, and what our fee covers
Common mistakes we fix
- Annual return (Form A / Form 29) filed late, which brings SECP penalties
- Change of directors, shares or address not reported to SECP
- Company NTN and tax return not filed even when there is no income
- Beneficial ownership register not kept up to date
Included in our fee
- Name check, documents and filings on SECP eServices
- Board and shareholder resolutions drafted for you
- Company NTN and FBR profile set up or updated
- A compliance calendar for the year ahead
Law and references
The sections and rules this service is based on.
- Companies Act 2017, s.424 – inactive company
- s.425 – registrar may strike off a defunct company
- s.426 – easy exit of a defunct company
Questions
How long does it take?
About 4–6 months, including the 90-day notice. Step by step: Closure review (1–2 days), Pending filings (1–3 weeks), Resolutions (1 day), Easy exit application (1 day), Gazette notice (90 days), Tax closure (Parallel).
What does it cost?
We give a fixed quote after reviewing your case. Government fees are extra where they apply.
What happens if I miss a deadline?
Directors' and officers' liabilities continue after dissolution (s.426(3)). Abandoning a company leaves directors exposed to notices and penalties.
Can we pause instead of closing?
Yes. A company with no significant transactions for two years can apply for inactive status under s.424 and reactivate later.
Can a company with liabilities be struck off?
Liabilities must generally be settled first. We advise on the route that fits your situation.
Is the NTN closed too?
Yes. The FBR registration should be closed after the company is struck off.
Why clients choose TAXWORK
Individuals, businesses and companies across Pakistan and overseas.
Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Sialkot and Karachi (with Raza Siddiqui & Co., Chartered Accountants).
You get the scope and a fixed fee in writing before any work starts.
Progress updates, and a copy of everything we file or submit for you.
Keep reading
Related guides
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View service →Ready to get company closure & strike-off done?
Send your documents on WhatsApp or book a meeting. A consultant confirms the scope and a fixed fee before any work starts.