License Template for Pakistan

A License gives you legal permission to do something that would otherwise be prohibited. In Pakistan, licenses control activities ranging from running a business to using intellectual property, with specific requirements set by provincial and federal authorities like the SECP (Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan).

Licenses protect both the public and license holders by creating clear rules and boundaries. For example, a commercial license lets you operate your business legally, while a software license spells out exactly how you can use a program. The terms, duration, and fees vary based on the activity and relevant regulations under Pakistani law.

You need a License before starting any regulated business activity in Pakistan. This includes opening a retail store, running a restaurant, providing professional services, or using someone else's intellectual property. Getting the right license from authorities like SECP or local government offices helps you avoid fines and closure risks.

Secure your license early in your business planning phase. Operating without proper licensing can result in heavy penalties under Pakistani law, damage your reputation, and create problems with banks and business partners. Different activities require specific types of licenses - for example, food businesses need health department approval while tech companies often need software licensing.

• Commercial Licenses: Required for businesses like shops, restaurants, and service providers - issued by local authorities and SECP
• Professional Licenses: Needed for doctors, lawyers, accountants, and other regulated professions - granted by relevant professional bodies
• Industrial Licenses: For manufacturing, processing, and large-scale production facilities - obtained through provincial governments
• Software/IP Licenses: Controls use of intellectual property, software, and digital content - can be perpetual or subscription-based
• Special Activity Licenses: Covers specific regulated activities like import/export, telecommunications, or financial services

• Business Owners: Must obtain and comply with licenses to operate legally in Pakistan, from small shops to large corporations
• Government Authorities: Issue licenses, monitor compliance, and enforce regulations through bodies like SECP, local governments, and industry regulators
• Legal Professionals: Help draft license applications, ensure compliance, and resolve licensing disputes
• Professional Bodies: Grant and oversee specialized licenses for doctors, lawyers, accountants, and other regulated professions
• IP Rights Holders: Create and manage licenses for their intellectual property, software, or content used in Pakistan

• Identify License Type: Determine exactly which license you need based on your business activity and location in Pakistan
• Gather Documents: Collect required paperwork like NTN certificate, CNIC copies, business registration, and proof of address
• Check Requirements: Research specific conditions from relevant authorities (SECP, local government, professional bodies)
• Draft Application: Use our platform to generate accurate, compliant license documentation that meets all legal requirements
• Review Terms: Carefully verify all conditions, restrictions, and compliance obligations before submission
• Prepare Fees: Calculate and arrange payment for all applicable licensing and processing charges

• Parties' Details: Full legal names, addresses, and registration numbers of licensor and licensee
• Scope Definition: Clear description of permitted activities, geographical limits, and usage rights
• Duration Terms: Start date, expiry date, and renewal conditions under Pakistani law
• Fee Structure: Payment amounts, schedules, and methods in PKR or agreed currency
• Compliance Rules: Specific regulatory requirements and operational standards
• Termination Clauses: Conditions for cancellation, suspension, and dispute resolution
• Signatures Section: Space for authorized representatives' signatures and company seals

A License is often confused with an Access Agreement, but they serve different purposes in Pakistani law. While both documents grant certain rights, their scope and legal implications differ significantly.

• Purpose and Scope: A License grants official permission to conduct specific activities or use property, often with regulatory oversight. An Access Agreement simply allows entry or use of specific facilities or resources without conveying broader operational rights.
• Duration and Formality: Licenses typically require formal registration, regular renewal, and ongoing compliance monitoring. Access Agreements are usually simpler, shorter-term arrangements without regulatory oversight.
• Legal Requirements: Licenses must meet strict regulatory standards and often need government approval. Access Agreements are private contracts that don't require official endorsement.
• Enforcement: License violations can result in governmental penalties or business closure. Access Agreement breaches are handled through standard contract law remedies.