Singapore is a global business hub, consistently ranked as one of the easiest places to start and run a company. Whether you’re a local entrepreneur or a foreign investor, understanding the process of company registration in Singapore is crucial for a smooth business launch. This guide covers everything you need to know, including requirements, step-by-step incorporation, and how company incorporation services in Singapore can help.
Why Register a Company in Singapore?
- Business-friendly regulations: Singapore offers a transparent legal framework and minimal bureaucracy, making company registration straightforward.
- Tax advantages: Attractive corporate tax rates and tax incentives for new startups.
- Global reputation: Singapore is a trusted location for international business, banking, and trade.
- Access to talent and funding: A skilled workforce and robust financial ecosystem.
Types of Business Entities in Singapore
| Entity Type | Suitable For | Key Features |
| Private Limited Company | Most entrepreneurs | Separate legal entity, limited liability, scalable, preferred for tax incentives |
| Sole Proprietorship | Solo founders | Simple setup, unlimited liability |
| Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) | Professionals, small firms | Limited liability, flexible structure |
| Subsidiary/Branch/Representative Office | Foreign companies | Varies in liability, compliance, and tax treatment |
Most businesses choose a Private Limited Company for its scalability and credibility.
Requirements for Company Registration in Singapore
- At least one shareholder (individual or corporate entity)
- At least one resident director (Singapore citizen, PR, or EntrePass holder)
- At least one company secretary (must be a resident)
- Minimum paid-up capital of SGD 1
- Registered local address
- Approved company name (must not be identical or offensive)
- Company constitution (formerly Memorandum & Articles of Association)
Step-by-Step Guide to Company Registration in Singapore
1. Prepare Required Documents
- Individual shareholder and director identification (passport/NRIC, proof of address, short bio)
- Corporate shareholder identification (company constitution, notice of incorporation, proof of address)
- Company constitution (ignore if using ACRA’s standard version)
- Consent to Act as Director (Form 45) and Secretary (Form 45B)
2. Choose and Reserve Your Company Name
- Conduct a Singapore company name search via ACRA’s BizFile+ portal to ensure availability.
- Name approval is usually instant unless further review is needed.
3. Engage a Company Incorporation Service Provider
- Foreigners must use a licensed company secretary (Registered Filing Agent) to incorporate a company in Singapore.
- Locals are encouraged to use a licensed company secretary (Registered Filing Agent) to incorporate a company in Singapore, ensuring full compliance with the Company Acts requirements and a smooth incorporation process.
- Providers offer packages that include a company secretary, a registered address, and compliance support.
4. Submit Incorporation Application to ACRA
- Name application and incorporation of the company, and pay the incorporation fee (typically SGD 315).
- Print out the ACRA’s standard company constitution or upload the custom constitution prepared.
- Incorporation is often completed within 1 day if all documents are in order.
5. Post-Incorporation Steps
- Receive your Certificate of Incorporation and Unique Entity Number (UEN)
- Open a corporate bank account (major banks: DBS, OCBC, UOB, Standard Chartered, Citibank)
- Register for necessary business licenses (if required)
- Obtain business insurance (if required)
- Preparation of statutory documents for Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC) and submit to ACRA within 1 month from the date of incorporation
- Preparation of statutory documents for Register of Nominee Directors (ROND) and submit to ACRA within 1 month from the date of incorporation
- Preparation of statutory documents for Register of Nominee Shareholders (RONS) and submit to ACRA (Encourage but not yet mandatory)
Company Incorporation Services Singapore – Typical Packages
| Service Feature | Basic Package | Standard Package | Premium Package |
| Name Reservation | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ACRA Registration Fee | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Company Secretary (1 year) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Registered Address (1 year) | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Corporate Bank Account Setup | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Annual Return Filing | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Nominee Director Service | ✔ | ||
| Price (SGD, est.) | $500 | $800 | $1,500+ |
Key Considerations for Foreigners
- Local director requirement: At least one director must be a resident of Singapore.
- No need to relocate: You can own 100% of shares as a foreigner and manage the company from abroad, but you’ll need a local director and address.
- Work passes: If you wish to relocate, apply for an Employment Pass or EntrePass.
After Company Registration: What’s Next?
- Open a corporate bank account: Directors may need to be present in Singapore for account opening.
- Register for Goods and Services Tax (GST): Mandatory if annual turnover exceeds SGD 1 million.
- Set up accounting and payroll: Comply with Singapore Financial Reporting Standards and Singapore Labour Law.
- Obtain business licenses: Certain sectors (e.g., F&B, finance, education) require additional licensing.
- Annual compliance: Preparation of unaudited financial statements, audit of financial statements, submission of income tax, hold annual general meetings (AGM), file annual returns, and maintain proper records.
Common Questions About Company Registration in Singapore
- How long does it take to register a company?
If all documents are ready, registration can be completed in as little as 1 day.
- What is ACRA?
The Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) is Singapore’s business registrar.
- Can I register a company online?
Yes, the entire process can be done online via BizFile+ or through a service provider. However, foreigners must appoint a local registered filing agent and company secretary to perform this filing.
- How much does it cost?
Incorporation fees start from SGD 315, with service provider packages ranging from SGD 500 to $1,500+, depending on services included.
- Do I need a company secretary?
Yes, every company must appoint a qualified company secretary within 6 months of incorporation.
Why Use Company Incorporation Services in Singapore?
- Expertise: Navigate legal and compliance requirements with ease.
- Convenience: Providers handle paperwork, filings, and reminders.
- Value-added services: Many offer tax, accounting services in Singapore, and nominee director services for a seamless setup.
In summary:
Company registration in Singapore is not just a legal formality. It’s your first step towards unlocking growth, credibility, and long-term success in one of the world’s most dynamic business environments, and with DTL Accounting Group’s expert company incorporation services in Singapore, you gain a trusted partner dedicated to guiding you through every stage, from compliance and tax planning to tailored financial solutions that empower your business to thrive-discover how we can help you start strong and stay ahead by visiting our website today!