Cost of Company Registration in Singapore A Comprehensive Guide to Fees and Key Factors

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Company in Singapore? A Comprehensive Guide to Fees and Related Factors

In recent years, as the global economic landscape continues to evolve, more entrepreneurs and investors are turning their attention to Singapore - one of Asia’s most competitive business hubs. With its highly open business environment, robust legal framework, and tax-friendly policies, Singapore has become a popular destination for global entrepreneurs seeking to establish a company. Especially in 2025, amid heightened global economic uncertainty, Singapore's stable environment and efficient services have further attracted significant international capital inflows.

So, in such an ideal entrepreneurial location, how much does it actually cost to register a company? This article will comprehensively analyze the cost structure and key factors involved in setting up a business in Singapore from multiple perspectives.

1. Overview of Basic Registration Fees

According to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA of Singapore, the basic fee for registering a Private Limited Company is 315 Singapore dollars approximately RMB 1,600. This fee includes two components the name reservation fee and the official registration fee. Specifically

Company Name Reservation Fee S$15

Official Registration Fee if name is approved S$300

It’s important to note that this amount represents only the official government fees. In practice, additional expenses such as agent service fees and corporate secretary service fees must also be considered.

2. Service Fees for Company Registration Agents

Most foreign investors opt to use professional registration agents to handle the entire incorporation process in Singapore. These agencies typically offer one-stop services, including company name checks, document preparation, submission of applications, and assistance with opening bank accounts.

The service fees vary depending on the agency’s expertise and service package, generally ranging between S$800 to S$2,000. Some premium providers may also offer value-added services such as tax planning, HR management, and compliance consulting, which can increase the overall cost. Investors should carefully evaluate their needs and select a provider that offers both quality service and good value for money.

3. Corporate Secretary Service Fees

Under the Singapore Companies Act, all locally registered companies must appoint a qualified company secretary within six months of incorporation. The company secretary ensures compliance with relevant laws and regulations, manages annual filings, maintains minutes of general meetings, and coordinates board meetings.

For startups, many registration agents include the first year of corporate secretary services as part of their package. However, after the first year, this service typically incurs an annual fee ranging from S$500 to S$1,500, depending on the size of the company and the scope of services required.

4. Authorized Share Capital and Shareholder Structure

Singapore does not impose a minimum capital requirement. In theory, a company can be established with as little as S$1 in authorized capital. However, many businesses choose higher amounts - typically between S$10,000 to S$100,000 - to enhance credibility or meet industry-specific requirements.

Capital can be in the form of cash or other assets, and no formal verification is required. That said, a higher capital base can improve the chances of approval when applying for employment passes EP or S Passes in the future.

5. Office and Registered Address Costs

All registered companies in Singapore are required to have a valid local registered address. This address serves as the official communication point for receiving correspondence from government authorities.

If a company does not have its own physical office space, it can rent a virtual office or use a registered address service offered by an agent. Prices for these services range from S$200 to S$800 per year, depending on the location and additional features. Some premium business centers provide extra services like call answering and mail handling, which come at a higher cost.

6. Bank Account Opening and Operational Setup Costs

After successfully incorporating the company, the next step is usually to open a corporate bank account. Singapore is home to several reputable banks, including DBS, OCBC, and UOB, all of which offer streamlined account-opening procedures.

Banks typically charge a one-time setup fee ranging from S$100 to S$300. Additionally, companies should budget for initial operational costs such as purchasing office equipment, building a website, and paying employee salaries. These expenses vary significantly across industries and must be planned accordingly.

7. Tax and Compliance Costs

Singapore operates under a low-tax regime, with a maximum corporate income tax rate of 17%. Moreover, profits up to S$100,000 enjoy full tax exemption. Despite the favorable tax environment, companies are still required to maintain accurate financial records and comply with strict reporting standards.

To meet these obligations, many businesses engage professional accounting firms for bookkeeping, tax filing, and audit services. For small businesses, annual accounting service fees typically range between S$2,000 to S$5,000, depending on the complexity of operations.

8. Other Potential Expenses

Beyond the major costs outlined above, companies may also incur additional expenses related to intellectual property protection, recruitment, and branding. For example

Trademark Registration Approximately S$341 per class

Employment Pass/S Pass Application Fees Around S$70 to S$105

These optional but important expenditures should be factored into the overall budget depending on the nature and goals of the business.

Conclusion

In summary, the total cost of setting up a company in Singapore extends far beyond the basic ACRA registration fee. It encompasses a wide range of administrative, operational, and compliance-related expenses. As a rough estimate, new entrepreneurs should budget between S$2,000 to S$5,000 for the initial setup, with variations based on company size, service requirements, and industry specifics.

With Singapore’s continued efforts to enhance its business environment, it remains an attractive and promising destination for global entrepreneurs looking to build and grow their ventures.