Why Register a Company in Singapore?
Singapore consistently ranks as one of the world’s easiest places to do business. With a pro-business government, low corporate tax rates (17% flat rate with exemptions), and a strategic location in Southeast Asia, incorporating a Singapore company opens doors to regional and global markets.
Types of Business Entities in Singapore
- Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd): Most popular — limited liability, separate legal entity, up to 50 shareholders
- Sole Proprietorship: Simple but no limited liability protection
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP): Popular for professional firms
- Branch Office: For foreign companies expanding to Singapore
Requirements to Register a Singapore Company
To incorporate a Private Limited Company (Pte Ltd) in Singapore, you need:
- Minimum 1 director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore (Singapore citizen, PR, or valid pass holder)
- Minimum 1 shareholder (can be individual or corporate)
- Minimum paid-up capital of S$1
- A registered Singapore office address
- A qualified corporate secretary appointed within 6 months
Step-by-Step Company Registration Process
- Choose your company name: Check availability on ACRA BizFile+ and ensure it complies with naming guidelines
- Prepare incorporation documents: Company constitution, director/shareholder details, registered address
- Submit to ACRA: File online via BizFile+ — takes 1–3 days for standard applications (same day for most)
- Pay registration fee: S$315 standard ACRA fee
- Receive Certificate of Incorporation: Your company is now legally registered
- Open a corporate bank account: Required for business operations
- Apply for necessary licences: Depending on your industry
How Long Does Company Registration Take?
Most Singapore company registrations are approved within 1 working day via ACRA BizFile+. Complex applications (requiring approval from other authorities) may take 14–60 days.
Cost of Incorporating a Singapore Company
- ACRA registration fee: S$315 (name reservation S$15 + incorporation S$300)
- Professional incorporation services: S$500–S$1,500 (includes secretarial setup)
- Registered address service: S$200–S$600/year
Can Foreigners Register a Company in Singapore?
Yes. Foreigners can be shareholders of a Singapore company with no restrictions. However, at least one director must be ordinarily resident in Singapore. Foreigners who don’t have local residency can appoint a local nominee director or relocate to Singapore on an Employment Pass.
Post-Incorporation Requirements
After incorporation, ensure you:
- Open a corporate bank account
- Appoint a qualified corporate secretary
- Register for GST if annual turnover exceeds S$1 million
- Understand your annual compliance obligations
View our Company Incorporation services or get started today.