So you want to start your own business but don’t know where to begin? To register a business in the Philippines, follow these steps:
Choose a business name and make sure it is available for use. You can check this on the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) online business name registration system.
Register your business name with the DTI if you are a sole proprietorship or a partnership. If you are registering a corporation, you must reserve your desired company name with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) before proceeding with the next steps.
Get a Barangay Clearance from the Barangay where your business will operate. This is a document that certifies that your business complies with the zoning and other local ordinances.
Obtain a Mayor’s Permit from the City Hall or Municipal Hall where your business is located. This permit is required to operate any business in the Philippines.
Register your business with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for tax purposes. You will need to submit a BIR registration form and other supporting documents.
If you plan to hire employees, register with the Social Security System (SSS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG Fund to provide benefits to your employees.
For corporations, submit your articles of incorporation and by-laws to the SEC, along with other supporting documents.
Note that the specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on the type and size of your business. It is advisable to consult with a lawyer or a business registration service provider to ensure that you comply with all the necessary requirements.
