Registration Of International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGO) In Pakistan

In recent years, the Government of Pakistan has adopted a restrictive approach towards the operations of international nongovernmental organizations and their local partners by refusing visas, restricting grant of business visas, introducing cumbersome and time consuming registration requirements, and requiring approvals from various different authorities for new projects. As of 2013, government policies have made it mandatory for groups receiving foreign funding and assistance to transparently declare all their finances, foreign contributions and activities as well as give a detailed plan how these funds are/will be utilized. Organizations are required to undertake security clearance process which makes it next to impossible to get approvals.

Presently the Ministry of Interior of Pakistan is responsible for registration process for INGOs. Under the Policy for regulation of INGOs in Pakistan issued by the Ministry of Interior in October, 2015 (“Policy”), it is mandatory for all INGO’s receiving foreign contributions (funds, materials and services) emanating from outside Pakistan or utilizing foreign economic assistance will require prior registration exclusively with the Ministry of Interior (MOI). INGOs are prohibited to raise funds and/or receive donations, locally, unless specifically authorized. Any INGO presently operating in Pakistan without registration with MOI is in violation of this Policy. INGOs can only provide assistance (monetary and/or material) to a local or international NGO after approval of the Government.

Our team of specialized lawyers at MB can assist and support in registration process of INGO. We offer services, including, but not limited to:

• Preparation of the required documentation for registration
• Obtaining requisite approvals and acknowledgements from Economic Affairs Division (EAD)
• Obtaining positive recommendation from Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy (PCP)
• Approval of Commissioner. Inland Revenue concerned under section 2 (36) of the Income Tax Ordinance, 2001
• Submission of registration application and documents with MOI
• Facilitate in getting security clearances from concerned authorities.
• Facilitate in obtaining tax exemptions

Once registration is complete, your INGOs will be allowed to establish headquarters and field offices, open bank accounts, and hire local employees. Without registration no INGO can function or issue visas for its personnel.