Set up in the Philippines
Ways for a foreign investor to enter
The right structure depends on your activity and goal. Each code page recommends one; here is the full set, from a wholly foreign-owned corporation to hiring through an Employer of Record without an entity.
Domestic corporation
EmerhubThe standard vehicle for selling to the Philippine market.
Ownership: up to 100%Capital: USD 200k
One Person Corporation
EmerhubA single foreign owner with full control and limited liability.
Ownership: up to 100%Capital: USD 200k
Branch office
EmerhubAn extension of an existing foreign company.
Ownership: up to 100%Capital: USD 200k
Representative office
EmerhubA non-revenue liaison or back-office presence.
Ownership: up to 100%Capital: USD 30k
Local corporation, minority foreign
EmerhubThe route for capped or closed activities.
Ownership: cappedCapital: Lower / none
Employer of Record
RecruitGoHire staff in the Philippines without setting up an entity.
Ownership: n/aCapital: None
Product holding
EmerhubImport or sell a regulated product without your own entity.
Ownership: n/aCapital: None
Compare structures
Every way a foreign investor can enter the Philippines, side by side. Open a row for the full detail.
| Structure | 100% foreign | Sell locally | No PH partner | No capital floor | No entity | Min. capital |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic corporation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | USD 200k |
| One Person Corporation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | USD 200k |
| Branch office | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | USD 200k |
| Representative office | ✓ | ✕ | ✓ | ✕ | ✕ | USD 30k |
| Local corporation, minority foreign | ✕ | ✓ | ✕ | ✓ | ✕ | Lower / none |
| Employer of Record | – | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | None |
| Product holding | – | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | None |