Starting a business entity in the Philippines is a significant milestone for any investor. Whether you are a local founder or a foreign investor, the initial goal is to register a corporation Philippines legally to ensure compliance. With the modern updates to the government systems, the procedure has become more streamlined through electronic systems like eSPARC.
Step 1: Reserving Your Corporate Name
The beginning of the process is to select a unique corporate name. You must verify for its availability via the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) online system. Make sure your chosen name is not clash with existing entities. Once cleared, you can reserve the name for a specific period by paying a small reservation fee.
Phase 2: Structuring Your Articles of Incorporation
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 most domestic corporations, there is hardly any minimum paid-up capital demanded by the SEC, unless specialized industries like insurance.
Key Officers: You must select a President, a Corporate Secretary (who must be a Filipino citizen), and a Treasurer (based locally).
Step 3: Digital Filing via eSPARC
In 2026, the entirety of the registration process is processed online. Through the eSPARC system, you will submit your Articles of Incorporation, By-laws, and supplementary register a corporation philippines documents. The system enables the OneSEC processing track, which may issue a Digital Certificate of Incorporation in a single business day provided all information is correct.
Phase 4: Post-SEC Requirements
Getting your SEC Certificate is the primary step. To legally operate and register a corporation Philippines completely, you must move forward with the following:
Local Permit: Obtain this from the specific district where your office is situated.
Mayor’s or Business Permit: Apply for this at the register a corporation philippines Municipal Hall. This needs a lease contract and sanitary permit.
Tax Compliance: Visit the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to obtain your Tax Identification Number register a corporation philippines (TIN), apply for your books of accounts, and register a corporation philippines secure authority to print official receipts.
Phase 5: Government Contributions
Once your corporation starts employing staff, you are register a corporation philippines required to register with government institutions including the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. This ensures your employees receive mandatory benefits and safeguards the company from penalties.
Final Thoughts
Completing the steps to register a corporation Philippines demands careful planning and accuracy. While the digital shift has made things easier, many startups still prefer to consult professionals to prevent common mistakes. Following these guidelines, you can build a strong foundation for your venture in the vibrant Philippine economy.