Starting a business in the Philippines means dealing with several government offices, each with its own forms and requirements. Recososa Law Firm guides entrepreneurs and companies through the whole process, from choosing a structure to getting your BIR registration, so you can open for business sooner and stay compliant.
The usual registration steps
- Choose your business structure. Sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or One Person Corporation. Each has different liability, tax, and ownership rules.
- Register your business name or company. A sole proprietorship registers its business name with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Partnerships and corporations register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
- Get your barangay clearance from the barangay where your business is located.
- Secure your mayor’s or business permit from the city or municipal business permits office, such as the Cebu City Business Permit and Licensing Office.
- Register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to get your Certificate of Registration, register your books of accounts, and set up invoicing.
- Register as an employer with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG once you hire employees.
Requirements vary by business type, location, and industry. Some businesses also need special licenses or permits.
How we help
- Advising on the best structure for your goals, tax position, and co-owners;
- Preparing and filing DTI, SEC, LGU, and BIR registration documents;
- Drafting articles of incorporation, bylaws, partnership agreements, and owners’ agreements;
- Foreign ownership and investment questions;
- Post-registration compliance: annual SEC reports, permit renewals, and tax filings.
Frequently asked questions
Should I register as a sole proprietorship or a corporation?
A sole proprietorship is simpler and cheaper to set up, but the owner is personally liable for business debts. A corporation separates your personal assets from the business and makes it easier to bring in partners and investors. The right choice depends on your plans, so it is worth getting advice before you register.
Can a foreigner own a business in the Philippines?
Often yes, but some industries limit foreign ownership under the Constitution and the Foreign Investment Negative List. We can check the rules that apply to your business.