Your Ultimate Guide to Registering a Corporation in the Philippines
Updated: Sep 11
Congratulations on taking a bold step towards building your company! Forming a corporation in the Philippines allows you to pool resources, limit liability, and operate with more credibility. While it may seem like a lot of paperwork, don’t worry—we’ve simplified the process for you. Here is your ultimate guide on registering a PARTNERSHIP or a DOMESTIC CORPORATION in the Philippines.
Step 1: Prepare Your Corporation Requirements
Before you begin, make sure you have the following:
At least 2 incorporators (natural persons or entities) and up to 15
Corporate name (check name availability via SEC’s eSPARC system)
Articles of Incorporation & By-Laws (prepared through eSPARC)
Treasurer’s Affidavit
Valid IDs of incorporators
Proof of office address (lease, land title, or barangay certificate)
Permitly Tip: For proof of office address, subscribing to a reliable virtual office such as MyOffice Philippines is a cost-effective and efficient solution. You’ll save both money and time versus renting out an entire office.
Step 2: Register with the SEC
All corporation registrations are filed online via the SEC eSPARC (Electronic Simplified Processing of Application for Registration of Company) system.
Process:
Reserve your corporate name.
Encode Articles of Incorporation & By-Laws.
Upload supporting documents (IDs, Treasurer’s Affidavit, office address).
Pay SEC filing fees online.
What you’ll receive:
SEC Certificate of Incorporation – this officially creates your domestic corporation.
Step 3: Register with the BIR
Once incorporated, your corporation must register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
Requirements:
SEC Certificate of Incorporation
Articles of Incorporation & By-Laws
BIR Form 1903 (Application for Registration for Corporations/Partnerships)
Treasurer’s Affidavit
Valid ID of authorized signatory
Proof of address
What you’ll receive:
BIR Certificate of Registration (COR, Form 2303)
Authority to Print Invoices/Receipts
Corporate Tax Identification Number (TIN)
Step 4: Register Your Books of Accounts
Corporations must maintain books of accounts for tax compliance. Options include:
Manual books (journal, ledger, etc.)
Loose-Leaf
Computerized books
Register these at the BIR or via ORUS. E-stamps/QR codes will be provided.
Step 5: Apply for Authority to Print Invoices
File BIR Form 1906 (Authority to Print) to issue official invoices. Have them printed by a BIR-accredited printer.
Permitly Tip: Starting 2024, invoices are the official primary receipts for both goods and services. Official Receipts (O.R.s) are supplementary only.
Step 6: Register with Your Local Government Unit (LGU)
Your corporation must also comply with local requirements.
Typical requirements:
Barangay Clearance
Mayor’s/Business Permit
SEC Certificate of Incorporation
BIR COR
Lease contract or proof of office ownership (a reliable virtual office like MyOffice Philippines will come in handy!)
Sanitary, Fire, and other compliance permits depending on LGU
Step 7: Register with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG
All corporations must register as an employer with SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG.
Conclusion: Start Building Your Business the Right Way
At Permitly, we specialize in end-to-end corporate registration. From SEC filing to BIR and LGU compliance, our team ensures your corporation is set up smoothly. Book a free 15-minute consultation with us today and start building your business the right way!
Additional Resources
For more information on corporate registration, consider exploring the following topics:
Understanding the Importance of Corporate Structure
A solid corporate structure is crucial for any business. It defines how your company operates and how decisions are made. Understanding this can help you navigate challenges more effectively.
Navigating Tax Compliance in the Philippines
Tax compliance can be daunting. Knowing the requirements and deadlines can save you from penalties and ensure your business runs smoothly.
Choosing the Right Business Location
The location of your business can significantly impact its success. Consider factors such as accessibility, target market, and competition when making your decision.
By following these steps and utilizing available resources, you can successfully register your corporation in the Philippines.
