ISLAMABAD: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has unveiled a new digital investor onboarding framework aimed at simplifying and accelerating the process of entering the country’s capital market. The initiative is designed to streamline documentation, reduce redundant verification, and set clear timelines for opening investor accounts.

According to Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, the framework is particularly focused on assisting first-time and digital investors. Sehl/Sahulat accounts will be processed within one working day, while Normal Accounts will be finalized within two working days. Applicants will be assigned tracking IDs, and any deficiencies in their applications will be communicated within the set timeframe, with reasons for rejection provided in writing.

The framework reflects SECP’s ongoing efforts to broaden retail participation, especially among young Pakistanis, with a goal of increasing the country’s capital-market investor base to 2.5 million. SECP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu emphasized the initiative’s focus on leveraging technology to make investing more accessible and efficient, aiming to unlock the untapped potential of Pakistan’s capital market.

Issued through Circular No. 19 of 2026, the framework standardizes onboarding requirements across various financial institutions, offering a more consistent investor experience. It eliminates repetitive customer verification by allowing intermediaries to rely on previously completed verifications by eligible institutions or notified third parties. Additionally, the framework supports API-based processing and digital onboarding, facilitating instant issuance of Unique Identification Numbers and opening of CDC sub-accounts, thereby reducing paperwork and manual procedures.