Who Is Eligible for BOI Registration?
TL;DR (Summary Box)
Want to enjoy tax incentives and business-friendly treatment in the Philippines? If your business activity is listed in the Investment Priorities Plan (IPP), you may be eligible to register with the Board of Investments (BOI). Whether you’re a local startup or a foreign company, BOI registration can open doors to fiscal and non-fiscal benefits.
Introduction
Are you considering doing business in the Philippines and wondering if your company qualifies for BOI registration? The Philippine Board of Investments (BOI) is the primary government agency responsible for promoting investments in the country. One of the key perks? Incentives. But not every business is automatically eligible.
This guide breaks down BOI registration eligibility, so you can determine whether your business fits and how to apply with confidence.
What Is BOI Registration?
BOI registration is the process through which a business becomes officially recognized as a BOI-registered enterprise. This recognition allows companies to access fiscal and non-fiscal incentives under the government’s investment promotion initiatives.
The Investment Priorities Plan (IPP) or the newer Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP) lists down the activities that qualify for these incentives.
Who Can Register with BOI Philippines?
BOI registration is open to a wide range of enterprises. In general, eligible applicants include:
- Local companies (sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations)
- Foreign-owned companies
- Startups and SMEs
- Joint ventures between Filipino and foreign investors
To qualify, your business must be involved in an activity included in the BOI-approved business sectors.
BOI-Approved Business Sectors
Eligibility depends largely on whether your company falls under one of the priority sectors identified by the BOI. These sectors may vary year to year based on the SIPP or IPP, but typically include:
- Manufacturing (electronics, automotive, machinery)
- IT-BPM (Information Technology – Business Process Management)
- Agribusiness and aquaculture
- Renewable energy (solar, wind, biomass)
- Infrastructure and logistics
- Export-oriented enterprises
- Health and medical services
- Innovation-driven enterprises
Understanding what types of businesses are eligible for BOI registration starts with checking if your activity is included in the current IPP or SIPP.
BOI Philippines Eligibility Requirements
If you want to know how to know if your business qualifies for BOI incentives, you’ll need to assess several factors:
- Your business activity must align with those listed in the IPP/SIPP
- Ownership structure matters, especially for foreign investors
- Location may be considered (e.g., some incentives apply only to businesses outside Metro Manila)
For foreign investors, there may be minimum equity requirements or limitations depending on the sector.
BOI Incentives Eligibility for Foreign Investors
Yes, foreign-owned companies can register with the BOI in the Philippines. However, the level of foreign ownership allowed varies depending on the business activity:
- 100% foreign ownership is allowed in export enterprises (those exporting at least 70% of output)
- For domestic enterprises, 60-40 Filipino-foreign equity may apply, depending on the sector and nationality restrictions
Some activities are subject to the Foreign Investment Negative List, so it’s important to check if your sector is open to foreign ownership.
BOI Applicant Qualifications: What You Need to Prepare
To apply, companies generally need to submit:
- A detailed project feasibility study or business plan
- SEC or DTI registration documents
- Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws
- Description of the business activity and how it aligns with the IPP/SIPP
- Projected financials and employment generation
These documents help the BOI assess your BOI registration eligibility.
BOI Registration Requirements for Local Businesses
Local businesses can also apply for BOI registration and enjoy tax breaks. The requirements are the same, but often easier to fulfill due to fewer nationality restrictions.
If you’re an SME, BOI may offer special consideration if your venture contributes to innovation, local job creation, or inclusive growth.
Can Startups or SMEs Qualify for BOI Registration?
Absolutely. Contrary to the myth that BOI incentives are only for large corporations, startups and SMEs are encouraged to apply, especially those in innovation, tech, green energy, and job-generating industries.
SMEs can benefit from:
- Income tax holidays
- Reduced duties on imported capital equipment
- Support with market access and business development
Do I Need a Filipino Partner to Register with the BOI?
Not always. It depends on your business activity:
- Exporters can have 100% foreign ownership
- Domestic market enterprises may require at least 60% Filipino ownership
Check the most recent Foreign Investment Negative List to know the limitations.
BOI vs. PEZA: What’s the Difference?
While both promote investment, BOI and PEZA serve different purposes:
| Aspect | BOI | PEZA |
| Target businesses | All over the Philippines | Inside PEZA economic zones |
| Foreign ownership | Varies by activity | Often allows 100% for export firms |
| Incentives | Tax holidays, duty-free imports, etc. | Similar incentives + zone-specific perks |
If you’re not locating inside a PEZA zone, BOI may be your best option.
Conclusion: Should You Apply for BOI Registration?
If your business activity aligns with the BOI-approved business sectors, and you meet the BOI Philippines eligibility requirements, then BOI registration can provide long-term benefits, especially in terms of tax perks and global market access.
Still unsure? Speak with an expert to clarify your eligibility and maximize the value of BOI incentives.
FAQ: BOI Registration Eligibility
Who is eligible for BOI registration in the Philippines?
Businesses engaged in BOI-prioritized sectors like manufacturing, agribusiness, energy, IT-BPM, and exports.
Can foreign-owned companies register with the BOI?
Yes. Foreign companies may register, especially export-oriented ones or those not restricted by the Negative List.
What industries are qualified for BOI registration?
Industries listed in the IPP or SIPP—manufacturing, logistics, health services, energy, innovation, etc.
What are the requirements to be eligible for BOI incentives?
Eligible business activity, complete registration documents, financial projections, and IPP/SIPP alignment.
Can startups or SMEs qualify for BOI registration?
Yes, especially if engaged in innovation, tech, or inclusive growth initiatives.
Do I need a Filipino partner to register with the BOI?
Depends on your business. Export-oriented businesses can be fully foreign-owned. Domestic markets may require Filipino equity.
Is BOI registration the same as PEZA registration?
No. BOI covers the entire country; PEZA applies only within economic zones.
Need help navigating your BOI application? Reach out today and get guidance tailored to your business type and sector.