Set Up a Foreign-owned Company in the Philippines

The most common legal entities in the Philippines:

• Domestic Corporation
• One-Person Corporation
• Representative Office

Emerhub can help you register and set up any of these legal entities. We will assist you in every step of the process so you can enter the Philippine market with ease.

Domestic Corporation in the Philippines

The most common legal entity among foreign investors is the domestic corporation. Despite the name, foreigners can establish this type of company. It is possible to have full foreign ownership of a domestic corporation depending on the industry.

A domestic corporation must have at least 2 but no more than 15 shareholders. It also needs to have the following corporate officers:

• President
• Corporate Secretary
• Treasurer

One Person Corporation in the Philippines

The one person corporation is a type of legal entity with only one shareholder. Foreign investors can set up this type of corporation if the industry allows 100% foreign ownership. Examples of business that can be 100% foreign-owned include:

• Internet businesses
• Wellness centers
• Teaching in higher education or outside the formal education system
• Lending companies
• Financing companies
• Investment houses
• IT
• Service sector businesses

Like the domestic corporation, to register a one person corporation, you will need the following corporate officers:

• President
• Corporate Secretary
• Treasurer

Note that in both types of corporations, only Filipino citizens can hold the corporate secretary position. The corporate secretary must also have a good understanding of local laws and regulations. You can outsource corporate secretarial duties to Emerhub to ensure compliance with Philippine laws.

Representative Office in the Philippines

A representative office is an offshore office established by a foreign parent company. A representative office cannot generate income in the Philippines. This type of business structure is best suited for the following business activities:

• Market research
• Backoffice activities
• Establishing relationships with local businesses

Not sure which legal entity you should establish? Get in touch with our consultants and we will advise you on the business structure that best suits your business. Fill out the form below to get started.

Setting Up Operations in the Philippines

Aside from establishing your legal entity, Emerhub can also help you set up operations and manage your business. We also offer HR services including:

• Sourcing and recruitment
• Payroll management
• Registering employees with the necessary government agencies

Emerhub will also assist you with tax, accounting, and compliance.