TIN, DTI and SEC — Philippines business registration
What to have in place before issuing your first invoice in the Philippines: TIN, BIR Form 2303, DTI or SEC registration and local permits.
Invoicing in the Philippines rests on several registrations. A sole proprietor registers a business name with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Partnerships and corporations register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The city or municipality issues a business permit. The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issues the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and the Certificate of Registration (BIR Form 2303), which lists your tax types. Since the Ease of Paying Taxes Act (RA 11976) took effect on 22 January 2024, the annual PHP 500 registration fee has been abolished. How your invoices must be printed or generated depends on BIR rules for your setup, so confirm with your Revenue District Office (RDO).
- TIN: 9 digits plus a 3-digit branch code, issued by the BIR.
- BIR Form 2303: Certificate of Registration with your tax types.
- DTI: business name registration for sole proprietors.
- SEC: registration of partnerships and corporations.
How it works
Choose the form of business. A sole proprietorship registers its business name with DTI. Partnerships and corporations register with SEC. The Revised Corporation Code (RA 11232) also allows a One Person Corporation.
Get the local permits. This usually means a barangay clearance and a business permit from the city or municipality. Requirements vary by locality.
Register with the BIR at the RDO of your business address. Self-employed individuals and professionals generally use BIR Form 1901, employees use Form 1902 and corporations and partnerships use Form 1903. You receive your TIN and BIR Form 2303.
Follow the BIR rules for how invoices are printed or generated. Printed invoices go through a BIR-accredited printer and authority process. Software-generated invoices fall under BIR rules for computerized systems. Ask your RDO which applies to you.
Keep your books and records as the BIR requires. Registration and record rules were changed by the EOPT Act, so check the current BIR issuances.
Legal framework
- National Internal Revenue Code of 1997 (RA 8424), including Sections 236 and 237.
- Ease of Paying Taxes Act (RA 11976).
- Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines (RA 11232).
- Revenue Regulations No. 7-2024 (invoicing and registration amendments under EOPT).
Frequently asked questions
Do freelancers need to register with DTI and BIR?
Freelancers register with the BIR to get a TIN and BIR Form 2303. DTI registration is needed when you trade under a business name other than your own name. Local permits also apply. Confirm the details with the BIR and your city hall.
What is the difference between an OPC and a sole proprietorship?
A One Person Corporation (RA 11232) is a corporation with a single stockholder and its own legal personality. A sole proprietorship has no separate personality, so the owner is personally liable. Compliance and taxation differ, so ask an accountant before you choose.
What is an Authority to Print?
It is the BIR authority under which an accredited printer produces printed invoice booklets. The exact process and validity are set by BIR rules, which the EOPT Act changed, so ask your RDO for the current procedure.
Can foreigners register a business in the Philippines?
Yes, in many activities, subject to the Foreign Investments Negative List and other laws. A foreign-owned corporation registers with the SEC and the BIR like any other. Confirm the current list and any permits with the relevant agencies.
Does 4invoices verify my TIN or register me with the BIR?
No. 4invoices does not register you, does not verify TINs and does not connect to the BIR. You type your details on the invoice, choose the VAT rate per line and currency, and download the PDF. The 6-month free trial needs no card.