How to Register a Fintech Business in the Philippines

February 26, 2025

The Fintech Business in the Philippines is rapidly growing, offering innovative digital payments, lending, and online banking solutions. However, securing the proper licenses is crucial to ensure legal compliance before launching a fintech company. Business registration is the first step in establishing a fintech firm. However, additional regulatory approvals are required from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). Understanding these licensing requirements can help entrepreneurs navigate the process efficiently and avoid regulatory pitfalls.

Why Business Registration Matters

For fintech companies, business registration in the Philippines is fundamental to operating legally. The process establishes your company as a recognized entity, enabling it to secure investments, open bank accounts, and comply with taxation laws. Registering your fintech business also builds credibility with clients and regulatory bodies, ensuring trust and transparency in your operations.

Triple i Consulting offers business registration services to help fintech startups comply with local regulations. From securing corporate documents to assisting with tax registration, our team ensures that your company is registered correctly and compliant with Philippine laws.

SEC Registration: Corporate Legitimacy for Fintech Companies

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is the primary agency overseeing corporations in the Philippines. Fintech businesses must register with the SEC to obtain a Certificate of Incorporation, which legally establishes the company as a corporation.

In addition to standard corporate registration, fintech firms offering securities, investments, or digital asset services must secure secondary licenses from the SEC. These include permits for investment platforms, crowdfunding intermediaries, and virtual asset service providers. The SEC ensures that fintech companies operate transparently and protect the interests of investors and consumers.

BSP Licensing: Compliance for Financial and Payment Services

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) regulates all financial institutions and payment service providers in the Philippines. Fintech businesses engaged in digital banking, e-money issuance, remittance services, or cryptocurrency transactions must obtain the necessary BSP licenses. The most common fintech licenses issued by BSP include:

Electronic Money Issuer (EMI) License: Required for companies offering digital wallets and e-money services.
Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) License: This is mandated for businesses dealing with cryptocurrency exchanges and blockchain-based financial transactions.
Operator of Payment Systems (OPS) Registration: Necessary for companies processing digital payments and facilitating online transactions.

Compliance with BSP regulations ensures that fintech firms operate within the guidelines of the Philippine financial system, reducing the risks of fraud, money laundering, and financial instability.

DICT Certification: Ensuring Cybersecurity and Data Protection

Cybersecurity compliance is a top priority for fintech businesses that handle vast amounts of sensitive financial data. The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) ensures that fintech companies implement proper cybersecurity measures and adhere to data privacy laws.

DICT certification involves compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012, which mandates the protection of customer information. Fintech firms must establish strong data security policies, safeguard digital transactions, and report data breaches to regulatory authorities. Adhering to DICT guidelines protects businesses from cyber threats and enhances consumer confidence in digital financial services.

The Challenges of Business Registration for Fintech Startups

Setting up a fintech company in the Philippines involves multiple regulatory hurdles. Entrepreneurs often face challenges such as:

Complex documentation and compliance requirements: Securing approvals from SEC, BSP, and DICT requires detailed paperwork and strict adherence to regulations.
Time-consuming registration process: The process can take months, especially for businesses requiring multiple licenses.
Regulatory updates and changing policies: Compliance laws in the fintech sector frequently evolve, making it difficult for startups to keep up with new requirements.

Despite these challenges, Fintech entrepreneurs can streamline the process by working with professionals specializing in business registration services in the Philippines. Expert guidance ensures compliance with all regulatory agencies, allowing business owners to focus on innovation and growth.

Setting Up a Compliant Fintech Business

A fintech company’s success in the Philippines depends on its ability to navigate regulatory requirements efficiently. Business registration, SEC incorporation, BSP licensing, and DICT compliance are essential to establishing a legally operating fintech firm. Entrepreneurs looking to enter the fintech sector must ensure full regulatory compliance to build a trustworthy and sustainable business.

Is Assistance Available?

Yes, Triple i Consulting provides professional assistance for business registration services in the Philippines. Our team simplifies the licensing process, ensuring that fintech startups meet all regulatory requirements quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to get started.