How to Name Your Singapore Company with a Unique and Compliant Name?

How to Choose a Unique and Compliant Name for Your Singapore Company

Starting a company in Singapore is a crucial step for many entrepreneurs seeking international expansion. As one of the world’s most competitive business hubs, Singapore attracts a large number of global investors with its stable policy environment, efficient services, and low tax rates.

However, during the company registration process, the first-and often overlooked-step is choosing a suitable name. A well-chosen company name not only supports brand building but also enhances customer trust and helps your business stand out in a competitive market. In Singapore, however, selecting a company name is not entirely freeform-it is subject to strict regulatory oversight. Therefore, it's essential to strike a balance between compliance and distinctiveness when naming your Singapore company.

1. Understand the Basic Naming Rules in Singapore

According to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA, all proposed company names must go through an approval process before official registration. This means applicants must submit the chosen name to ACRA for review prior to incorporation. If the name is deemed non-compliant or too similar to an existing registered company, it will be rejected.

Here are some key naming restrictions

1. No duplication or high similarity with existing names This is the most common reason for rejection. For example, if you attempt to register GlobalTech Pte Ltd and there is already a Global Tech Pte Ltd or Global-Tech Pte Ltd, your application may be denied due to excessive similarity.

2. Prohibited sensitive words Words such as bank, insurance, and fund typically require prior approval from relevant regulatory authorities. Terms related to government agencies or racial/religious references may also be restricted.

3. Language requirements Although Singapore is multilingual, company names are generally required to be in English. If using Chinese or another language, an English translation must be provided and approved by ACRA.

2. Align the Name with Brand Positioning and Market Strategy

Beyond legal compliance, a company name should also carry strong market recognition and reflect brand value. Here are some suggestions

1. Keep it simple and memorable Short, powerful names are easier to remember and promote. Examples like Zoom and Apple demonstrate high global recognizability.

2. Reflect industry characteristics or core business For instance, tech companies might consider keywords like Tech, Innovation, or Digital, while eco-friendly businesses could use Green, Eco, or Sustainable.

3. Avoid obscure or complex spellings Especially in international markets, a difficult-to-pronounce or spell name can hinder customer recall and online searches.

4. Allow room for future growth Avoid limiting the name to current operations. For example, if you currently focus on software development but plan to expand into hardware, avoid names like XX Software Solutions.

3. Use Tools and Resources to Improve Approval Chances

To increase the likelihood of passing ACRA’s name approval on the first try, entrepreneurs can take the following steps

1. Use ACRA’s official name search tool Before submitting your application, check potential conflicts via the BizFile+ platform.

2. Study recent successful cases For example, in 2025, several startups chose names that combined local culture with international elements, such as KopiTech Coffee + Technology and Lion Innovations symbolizing Singapore. These names reflect local identity while maintaining modern appeal.

3. Consult professional service providers Law firms or corporate registration agents often have extensive experience and can help avoid common mistakes, saving time and effort.

4. Be Aware of Industry-Specific Requirements

Some industries, particularly finance, healthcare, and education, have additional naming rules. For instance, if you're setting up a fintech company, using terms like FinTech may require detailed business explanations or supporting documentation. Emerging fields such as blockchain and artificial intelligence are still under regulatory review, so certain terminology may be restricted. It’s advisable to stay updated on the latest regulatory developments when naming companies in these sectors.

5. Case Studies Successful Company Naming Examples

In recent years, many foreign companies have demonstrated excellent naming strategies when registering in Singapore

Grab The short and powerful name of this Singapore-based super app is easy to globalize and conveys a positive message of seizing opportunities.

Sea Group Formerly known as Garena, the rebranding to Sea reflects simplicity and grandeur, supporting its evolution from a gaming platform to a diversified internet group.

Ninja Van A delivery logistics company, the energetic name resonates with younger consumers and aligns with its fast-service image.

These examples illustrate that a great company name serves not only as a legal requirement but also as a cornerstone of brand strategy.

6. Conclusion

Choosing the right name for your Singapore company may seem straightforward, but it involves careful consideration across multiple dimensions. It must meet legal compliance standards while also supporting brand development, marketing efforts, and long-term growth. In today’s information-saturated environment, a unique and memorable name can give your business a critical edge in forming a strong first impression. Take the time to thoughtfully craft and refine your company name, ensuring it is both legally compliant and reflective of your business vision and values.