The Essential Guide for Philippine Business Registration Process in 2026

Launching a company in the archipelago offers significant growth potential for both local and international investors. Regardless, understanding the legal setup procedures is essential to avoid legal hurdles. This guide breaks down the required steps and financial obligations for founding your firm.
The Step-by-Step Philippine Business Registration Process

The sequence of registering a business properly commences with choosing the right structure. For individuals, a sole proprietorship via the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is a popular choice. However, investors prefer incorporation through the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Step 1: Name Reservation: Initially, you must reserve your chosen name via the SEC eSPARC portal. Step 2: Document Preparation: Draft your Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. Thanks to recent laws, you can now establish a One-Person Corporation (OPC) if you are a lone investor. 3. Securing Local Licenses: Once incorporation, you need to obtain a clearance from the local barangay and a Mayor’s Business Permit from the relevant city hall. 4. BIR Compliance: To conclude the process, register with the BIR to get your Tax Identification Number (TIN) and permission to print official receipts.
Business Registration Philippines for Foreigners

For most global entrepreneurs, foreign business setup in the Philippines requires extra considerations. While the government has opened up many sectors, some limitations remain philippine business registration process under the Negative List.

International investors can own full ownership of export-based enterprises. However, businesses serving the local market frequently require a minimum capitalization for corporation philippines higher capital injection. Additionally, non-Filipino directors are required to obtain the proper visas, such as business registration philippines for foreigners the Alien Employment Permit (AEP).
A Look at philippine business registration process Minimum Capitalization for Corporation Philippines

One of the question for founders is the minimum capitalization for corporation philippines. In most cases, the Revised Corporation Code removed the minimum subscribed capital rule for domestic corporations unless required by specific laws.

However, the rules change vastly for foreign-controlled firms:

Domestic Market Enterprises: Usually require a minimum capitalization of 200,000 USD.

Tech or Labor Intensive: This amount can be lowered to US$100,000 if the company utilizes modern tech or hires at least 50 Filipino workers.

Export Enterprises: These firms can frequently be started with a minimum of 5,000 Pesos initial equity.

Conclusion

Navigating the philippine business registration process requires patience and due diligence. Through mastering the minimum capitalization for corporation philippines requirements for business registration philippines for foreigners and fulfilling the proper minimum capitalization for corporation philippines, you can successfully build a thriving business in this dynamic economy.