How to Apply for PEZA After SEC Incorporation and Business Registration

January 6, 2026

In the Philippines, PEZA registration with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority offers qualifying businesses a package of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, including income tax holidays, VAT zero-rating on local purchases, and simplified customs procedures. This makes it an attractive option for export-oriented enterprises, IT service providers, and manufacturers after completing SEC incorporation. This registration allows companies to locate in accredited ecozones or freeports, providing a conducive environment for growth while enjoying streamlined operations and reduced costs. As the agency targets record investment approvals in 2026, following its achievements in 2025, the application process requires a thorough project brief, financial projections, and supporting documents to demonstrate eligibility and commitment. Foreign-owned firms, in particular, benefit from these incentives when meeting the criteria for pioneer or non-pioneer status, with PEZA facilitating the transition from standard SEC registration to enhanced operational advantages. Businesses must prepare meticulously, as the process involves pre-screening, fee payments, and final approval, ensuring alignment with national development goals and compliance with export or service requirements.

What is PEZA and Its Incentives for Registered Companies

PEZA, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, is a government agency tasked with promoting investments through the establishment and management of ecozones, offering a range of incentives to qualified enterprises engaged in export manufacturing, IT services, tourism, and other eligible activities. This agency operates under the Special Economic Zone Act, offering both fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to enhance competitiveness. For companies completing SEC incorporation, PEZA registration unlocks significant advantages.

Income Tax Holiday: PEZA grants a 4-8 year exemption from corporate income tax for pioneer projects, followed by preferential tax rates, which reduce tax burdens during the startup phase.
VAT Zero-Rating: Local purchases of goods and services are VAT zero-rated, enabling the full recovery of input taxes and enhancing cash flow for operations.
Duty-Free Importation: Raw materials, equipment, and supplies are exempt from customs duties, lowering production costs for export-oriented businesses.
Employment Incentives: Foreign nationals can be employed in supervisory or technical roles without labor market tests, facilitating access to skilled talent.
Simplified Customs Procedures: Ecozones operate as separate customs territories, streamlining export and import processes with minimal red tape.
Infrastructure Support: PEZA-accredited zones offer ready facilities, utilities, and security, thereby reducing setup time and capital expenditures.

PEZA incentives are designed to attract foreign direct investment, with 2025 approvals setting records and 2026 targets aiming higher. Eligible activities include export manufacturing, IT-BPO, and medical tourism. The incentives vary by project classification, with more extended holidays for pioneer status. Companies must commit to export performance ratios or service exports. This framework positions the Philippines as a competitive hub in the ASEAN region. PEZA registration after SEC incorporation enhances profitability through tax relief and operational efficiencies.

Eligibility Criteria for PEZA Registration

Eligibility for PEZA registration requires meeting specific criteria related to business activities, export orientation, and economic contribution, ensuring alignment with national priorities. These standards determine qualification for incentives. Foreign-owned companies must also comply with investment laws.

Activity Eligibility: Businesses must engage in export manufacturing, IT services, tourism, or other activities listed by PEZA to qualify for registration and incentives.
Export Performance: Export-oriented enterprises must meet minimum export ratios or provide services to foreign clients, demonstrating contribution to foreign exchange earnings.
Economic Impact: Projects must generate employment, technology transfer, or value addition to the economy, with pioneer status for innovative or new industries.
Location Requirement: Operations must be located in PEZA-accredited ecozones or freeports, or propose new zones with the support of a developer.
Financial Viability: Applicants must submit financial projections that demonstrate sustainability and the capacity to meet investment commitments.
Compliance Record: Companies must have no pending violations or cases that could affect eligibility.

These criteria ensure PEZA incentives benefit projects with a positive impact. Foreign applicants are subject to additional scrutiny under the Foreign Investment Act. Eligibility determination occurs during pre-screening. This framework supports strategic investments. Businesses plan to meet these for approval.

Requirements for PEZA Application After SEC Incorporation

After SEC incorporation, a comprehensive set of documents and information is required to demonstrate eligibility and project viability for a PEZA application. These requirements ensure thorough evaluation. Preparation is essential for success.

Application Form: A completed PEZA application form with detailed project information is required for submission.
SEC Documents: SEC certificate of business registration, articles of incorporation, and bylaws prove legal establishment.
Project Brief: Detailed description of activities, including technology and employment generation, is required for assessment.
Financial Projections: Five-year forecasts showing viability and investment commitments must be included.
Lease Agreement: Contract with an ecozone developer or land title for proof of location.
Anti-Graft Certificate: A Sworn statement against corruption is necessary.
Board Resolution: Approval from board for PEZA application.
Environmental Clearance: ECC or CNC from DENR for impact assessment.
Tax Incentives Request: Justification for the Incentives Sought
Other Documents: company profile, resumes of key officers, and proofs of foreign investment, if applicable.

These requirements enable PEZA to evaluate impact and compliance—incomplete submissions delay processing. Businesses prepare for pre-screening. This list forms the application core.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for PEZA

The process for applying for PEZA after SEC incorporation involves a step-by-step sequence from pre-screening to final approval, ensuring both eligibility and commitment. This procedure requires coordination with PEZA. Following this methodically supports success.

Step 1: Pre-Screening Submission: Submit initial documents for preliminary review to confirm eligibility.
Step 2: Fee Payment: Pay the application fee and secure a receipt for processing.
Step 3: Full Application: Provide a complete package with a project brief and financials.
Step 4: Evaluation: PEZA reviews for compliance and impact.
Step 5: Site Inspection: Arrange a visit to the proposed location if required.
Step 6: Approval Issuance: Receive the registration certificate upon clearance.
Step 7: Contract Signing: Execute the registration agreement with PEZA.
Step 8: Ecozone Entry: Set up operations in the designated area.
Step 9: Incentive Availability: Claim benefits such as tax holidays.
Step 10: Ongoing Compliance: Submit regular reports to maintain the current status.

This process typically takes 3 to 6 months. Pre-screening accelerates full review. Businesses prepare for inspections. This sequence ensures successful registration.

Professional Assistance for PEZA Application

The PEZA application process involves complexities, from documentation to approvals, that can burden companies. Professional assistance offers expert navigation. Specialists ensure efficient outcomes.

Requirement Guidance: Identify needed documents.
Application Preparation: Complete forms accurately.
Submission Handling: File with PEZA.
Follow-Up Services: Track status.
Query Resolution: Address PEZA concerns.
Compliance Support: Assist post-approval.

Because the process is genuinely complicated, involving detailed requirements, evaluations, and potential delays, seeking help from trusted providers like Triple i Consulting is imperative. Triple i Consulting has established itself as a reliable partner in PEZA applications, assisting numerous firms with seamless registrations.

Key Takeaways

PEZA registration after SEC incorporation unlocks incentives for growth in the Philippines. From eligibility to process, it demands preparation. Professional support addresses challenges. As incentives evolve, PEZA remains a key player in the industry. Businesses that apply strategically thrive. Ultimately, it enhances competitiveness.

Is Assistance Available?

Yes, Triple i Consulting can help with PEZA registration in the Philippines. Our expert team navigates the complicated process, making them a trusted provider for efficient setups. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experts: