1. Annual & Periodic Filings
Annual Return Filing (Form A/B)
- Requirement: All companies are required to file annual returns to update corporate information.
- Deadline: Within 30 days of the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Annual Financial Statements
- Private Limited Companies: Must submit financial statements.
- Public Listed Companies: Required to submit audited financial statements.
- Deadline: Within 30 days of the AGM.
Form 29 (Changes in Directors & Officers)
- Requirement: To report the appointment, cessation, or changes in particulars of directors, CEOs, company secretaries, CFOs, auditors, and legal advisors.
- Deadline: Within 15 days of the change.
Form 21 (Change of Registered Office Address)
- Requirement: To notify SECP of any change in the registered office address.
- Deadline: Within 15 days of the change.
2. Compliance Regulations for Companies
Corporate Governance Compliance
- Listed Companies: Must adhere to SECP’s Corporate Governance Code, ensuring board transparency and the inclusion of independent directors.
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) & Counter-Terrorism Financing (CFT) Compliance
- Applicable Entities: Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), insurance firms, and brokerage houses are required to comply with AML/CFT regulations.
Companies (Compliance & Reporting) Regulations, 2020
- Requirement: Companies must maintain proper records and comply with SECP’s updated compliance framework.
3. SECP e-Services & Online Filing System
e-Services Portal for Digital Filings
- Functionality: SECP’s eServices portal facilitates online filings for name reservation, incorporation, annual returns, and statutory changes.
Payment of Fees via Bank Challan or Online
- Requirement: Fees are payable through designated banks or online payment systems integrated with the eServices portal.
4. Event-Based Filings with SECP
Increase in Share Capital (Form 7)
- Requirement: Companies issuing new shares must file Form 7 with SECP.
Declaration of Dividend (Form 27)
- Requirement: Public companies declaring dividends are required to file Form 27 with SECP.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Approvals
- Requirement: Companies undergoing mergers, demergers, or takeovers must submit the necessary filings for regulatory approval.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance with SECP filing requirements can result in:
- Financial Penalties: Monetary fines imposed for late or missing filings.
- Legal Action Against Directors: Directors may face legal consequences for persistent non-compliance.
- Possible Company Dissolution: Prolonged failure to file statutory returns can lead to the company being struck off the register.