Investing in the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) used to be a paperwork nightmare, but in 2026, it is almost entirely digital. Whether you are a student, a freelancer, or a business owner, you can now open an account in under 15 minutes without visiting any branch.
Here are very simple 4 Steps to open stock exchange account:
Step 1: Choose Your Account Type
Before you pick a broker, you need to decide which type of account suits you. In Pakistan, there are two main options:
1. The “Sahulat” Account (Best for Beginners)
This is a simplified account introduced by the PSX to encourage new investors.
- Requirements: Only your CNIC is required.
- Trading Limit: You can usually invest up to PKR 800,000 – 1,000,000 (approx).
- Pros: No proof of income needed; very fast approval.
- Cons: You cannot trade on margin (borrowed money) or Futures.
2. The Normal/Standard Account
- Requirements: CNIC + Proof of Income (Salary slip, bank statement, or freelancer tax return).
- Trading Limit: Unlimited (based on your wealth).
- Pros: Full access to all markets (Futures, Leverage, etc.).
Step 2: Choose a Broker (TREC Holder)
You cannot trade directly on the PSX; you need a middleman called a Broker (or TREC Holder). There are over 200 registered brokers, but for a digital experience, stick to the top-tier ones that offer mobile apps.
Here are top 10 Brokers in Pakistan according to PSX (December, 2025)
| Top 10 Brokers – Most Active Accounts | |
|---|---|
| 1 – AKD Securities Limited. | 6 – BMA Capital Management Limited. |
| 2 – Mohammad Munir Mohammad Ahmed Khanani Securities Limited. | 7 – Foundation Securities (Private) Limited. |
| 3 – JS Global Capital Limited. | 8 – Next Capital Limited. |
| 4 – Arif Habib Limited. | 9 – MRA Securities Limited. |
| 5 – KTrade Securities Limited. | 10 – Standard Capital Securities (Private) Limited. |
Pro Tip: Check the PSX Broker List to ensure your broker is licensed and active.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
For a Digital Account, have soft copies (photos) of these:
- CNIC: Front and Back photos (Clear and readable).
- IBAN / Cheque Picture: Proof of your bank account number.
- Nominee CNIC (Optional): The CNIC of your next of kin (Father/Spouse/Mother).
- Proof of Income (Only for Normal Accounts): Salary slip or 6-month bank statement.
Step 4: The Application Process (Online)
If you don’t want to visit their office. You can select any broker of your choice and from their website you can get account opening link.
- Sign Up: Enter your Name, Email, and Mobile Number.
- OTP Verification: You will receive a code on your mobile.
- Upload Documents: Upload the photos you prepared in Step 3.
- Biometric Verification (will be required later): Will be required once broker start account opening process. PSX use NCC BioVerify. You can download it once your account opening process is started to do bio-metric verification
- Submit: Once submitted, the broker will process your application.
Processing Time: Usually 24 to 48 hours. You will receive an email with your Login ID and Password for the trading terminal.
Under 15 minutes your account will be open and ready for trading/investing.