Many Filipinos put off business registration because it seems complicated. It isn't — if you follow the steps in the right order. Here's the 2025 updated guide.
Register your business name with the Department of Trade and Industry. Cost: ₱530 (barangay scope) to ₱2,130 (regional). Timeline: 1–3 business days online at bnrs.dti.gov.ph. You can do this from abroad using your Philippine TIN. Your DTI Certificate is required before you can get a Mayor's Permit.
Visit your barangay hall (your family member can do this). Bring your DTI Certificate, a valid ID, and proof of business address. Cost: ₱300–₱1,000 depending on barangay. Timeline: 1–3 days. This is renewed every January.
Go to your city or municipal hall with your DTI Certificate and Barangay Clearance. Cost varies widely — ₱500 for a small sari-sari store in a municipality, up to ₱10,000+ for larger businesses in cities. Timeline: 3–10 business days. This also needs fire safety clearance (separate visit to the Bureau of Fire Protection).
Required if you will issue official receipts or have employees. Visit your Revenue District Office (RDO) with your DTI and Mayor's Permit. Annual registration fee: ₱500. You'll also need to buy an Authority to Print Official Receipts or have them printed by an accredited printer. Timeline: 1–2 weeks for the full process.
All in-person steps can be handled by a representative (spouse, parent, sibling) using a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA). You can prepare and sign the SPA at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate abroad, or have it done in the Philippines with your representative. Cost of SPA preparation: ₱500–₱2,000 at a notary.
Includes financial projections, supplier contacts, and permit checklists. Instant PDF download.