Ultimate Guide to Company Registration Inquiry in Singapore Procedures and Tips

A Complete Guide to Registering and Searching for Companies in Singapore From Procedures to Tips You Need to Know

In the context of global economic integration, more and more entrepreneurs and businesses are choosing to establish companies overseas to expand their business footprint. Singapore has become a top destination for investors worldwide due to its strategic geographical location, stable political and economic environment, robust legal system, and convenient business ecosystem.

According to the World Bank’s 2025 Global Business Environment Report, Singapore has consistently ranked among the world's best for many years, particularly excelling in the indicator of Starting a Business. For individuals or enterprises planning to register a company in Singapore, understanding the registration process and how to effectively search for company information is the first step toward success.

This article will walk you through the basic procedures for registering a company in Singapore, as well as practical methods and tips for searching for company information.

I. Basic Steps for Company Registration in Singapore

Firstly, it is important to note that company registration in Singapore is managed by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA. All new companies must be registered through ACRA before they can operate. Here are the main steps

1. Determine the Company Structure and Name

The most common type of company in Singapore is the Private Limited Company, which has independent legal status and offers limited liability to shareholders.

Before registration, an application for the company name must be submitted to ACRA to ensure it is available and complies with regulations.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Identity and address proof of directors

Draft copy of the company’s constitution

At least one local director who can be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or professional holding an Employment Pass

A physical registered address P.O. boxes are not acceptable

Appointment documents for the company secretary and auditor

3. Submit the Registration Application

Apply online via ACRA’s electronic filing system, BizFile+

Pay the standard registration fee of S$300 approximately RMB 1,560

In most cases, the entire registration process can be completed within one working day

4. Post-Registration Matters

Open a corporate bank account

Apply for business licenses if applicable

Complete tax registration e.g., GST number

Set up accounting systems and arrange for annual audits

While the overall process is efficient and transparent, it may still pose challenges for those unfamiliar with local laws. Many entrepreneurs choose to engage professional registration agencies to assist with the process.

II. Detailed Methods for Searching Company Information in Singapore

During actual operations-whether seeking partners, making investment decisions, or verifying client backgrounds-it is often necessary to verify basic company information. Singapore maintains a high level of transparency regarding company data, and there are multiple channels for conducting searches

1. Free Search via ACRA Website

ACRA provides an online service called Business Profile, where members of the public can access basic company information, including

Company name and registration number

Date of incorporation and operational status

Registered address

Director names some details may be restricted

Summary of annual financial statements if publicly available

Visit the official website https//www.acra.gov.sghttps//www.acra.gov.sg

Simply enter the company name or registration number to perform a search. However, some sensitive data, such as full director details, is only accessible to authorized users for privacy reasons.

2. Purchase Official Company Records Paid

If more detailed information is required-such as full constitutions, historical change records, or complete director profiles-you can purchase official copies of company records from ACRA. Fees typically range between S$20 and S$50, depending on the complexity of the file.

3. Third-Party Commercial Information Services

Apart from official channels, several third-party platforms offer more comprehensive commercial information services, including

DB Hoovers

Creditsafe

Crunchbase

These platforms provide not only basic company data but also credit ratings, industry analysis, and financial reports, making them ideal tools for due diligence or market research.

4. Use Commercial Databases for Cross-Verification

When engaging in international business cooperation, it is recommended to cross-check information from multiple sources. For example, you can refer to the company’s official website via Google, employee profiles on LinkedIn, or Facebook pages to help assess the company’s authenticity and operational health.

III. Practical Tips and Tricks

Here are some useful tips to streamline your registration and information search processes

Check Company Name Availability in Advance Use ACRA’s website to perform a preliminary search and avoid rejection due to duplicate names.

Utilize E-Signature Tools Save time by using digital signature services like DocuSign during the registration process.

Stay Updated on Annual Reporting Obligations All companies must submit an Annual Return each year; failure to do so may result in penalties.

Update Company Information Promptly Notify ACRA immediately in case of changes in directors, registered addresses, or other key information.

Beware of Misleading Services Some online platforms offering fast registration may hide additional fees or involve compliance risks. It is safer to work with reputable agents.

IV. Conclusion

As the global economic landscape continues to evolve, Singapore’s position as an international financial and business hub remains strong. Whether you are a startup or a multinational corporation, setting up a company in Singapore can be a wise strategic decision. However, success depends on a solid understanding of local laws and procedures.

Through this guide, we hope you now have a clear understanding of the essential steps for company registration and the effective ways to search for company information in Singapore. With the right knowledge and strategies, these tasks no longer need to be obstacles. We wish every aspiring entrepreneur the best as you embark on your journey into the international market from Singapore’s dynamic business environment.