Business

Starting a business as a foreigner: ownership, capital, registration and visa

Find out how much of a business you may own, the capital needed for 100%, the registration steps, the risks of a Filipino nominee, and the visa that lets you run it.

Last verified: 2026-10

Situations covered (13)

100% foreign ownership possible with at least US$200,000
100% with US$100,000: only under specific conditions
Below the threshold: at most 40% foreign ownership
Foreign retail company: ₱25 million paid-up capital
Export enterprise: up to 100% foreign without the US$200,000 minimum
Activity reserved or capped: no foreign control possible
Business in a Filipino's name with your money: you own nothing in law
Real 60/40 company: protect your minority rights
Separation or dispute: what the registry says decides
SIRV: residence for an investment of at least US$75,000
Working in your own company: visa needed, AEP or exclusion
Already resident: own within the limits and register the exemption
Freelancing for local clients: it is doing business here

ImportantEducational and methodological guide. It does not replace a consultation with a lawyer registered with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP). Foreign ownership limits depend on the exact activity: have your activity checked against the current Foreign Investment Negative List before investing.

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