Starting a business legal entity in the Philippines is a significant milestone for any entrepreneur. Whether you are a Filipino founder or a foreign investor, the initial goal is to register a corporation Philippines legally to ensure protection. With the recent updates to the government systems, the procedure has become faster through online portals like eSPARC.
Phase 1: Securing Your Corporate Name
The first step is to select a unique business name. You must search for its availability through the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) online system. Make sure your chosen name does not resemble existing entities. Once cleared, you can hold the name for a specific period by paying a small reservation fee.
Phase 2: Structuring Your Corporate Structure
Prior to register a corporation Philippines, you need to define your share structure and leadership.
Founders: You need at least 2 but not more than fifteen directors. Note that a One Person Corporation (OPC) is also an option for solo entrepreneurs.
Authorized Capital: For typical domestic corporations, there is hardly any minimum paid-up capital demanded by the SEC, unless regulated industries like banking.
Management: You must appoint a President, a Corporate Secretary (who is a local resident), and a Treasurer (resident in the Philippines).
Phase 3: Digital Filing via eSPARC
In 2026, the entirety of the registration process is completed online. Through the eSPARC system, you will submit your Articles of Incorporation, By-laws, and other documents. This platform enables the OneSEC processing track, which can issue a register a corporation philippines provisional approval in a single business days provided all information is correct.
Step 4: Post-SEC Requirements
Getting your Certificate of Incorporation is only the beginning. To legally operate and register a corporation Philippines completely, you must proceed with the following:
Local Permit: Acquire this from the specific district where your office is situated.
Mayor’s or Business Permit: File for this at the Municipal Hall. This requires a proof of address and sanitary permit.
BIR Registration: Visit the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to obtain your Tax Identification Number (TIN), register your books of accounts, and secure authority to print invoices.
Phase register a corporation philippines 5: Employer Contributions
When the corporation starts employing staff, you must to register with government institutions such register a corporation philippines as the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. This ensures your workers receive mandatory benefits register a corporation philippines and safeguards the company from penalties.
Summary
Completing the steps to register a corporation Philippines demands careful planning and accuracy. While the digital shift has register a corporation philippines made things easier, many startups still prefer to consult legal experts to prevent common mistakes. Following these guidelines, you can build a strong foundation for your venture in the vibrant Philippine economy.