Singapore Company Registration Fees Explained MCI Fee Overview

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Company in Singapore? Everything You Need to Know

In today's global economic climate, more and more entrepreneurs and investors are turning their attention to the Southeast Asian market. As one of the world’s leading financial centers, Singapore has become a top destination for startups due to its stable environment, efficient services, and strategic location. For those considering setting up or expanding a business in Singapore, understanding the official fees involved in company registration is essential.

1. Basic Steps in Registering a Company in Singapore

Before discussing costs, let’s first review the basic steps in the company registration process

1. Company Name Approval Submit your proposed company name to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA to ensure it is available.

2. Prepare Registration Documents These include the company constitution, shareholder and director identification information, and the registered address.

3. Submit Registration Application Use the BizFile+ system to submit all required documents online.

4. Receive Certificate of Incorporation Once approved, ACRA issues the Certificate of Incorporation, officially confirming the company’s formation.

The entire process typically takes just 1-3 business days, reflecting Singapore’s high administrative efficiency.

2. Detailed Breakdown of Official Fees

There are several official fees associated with registering a company in Singapore

a. Company Name Reservation Fee

Before submitting your application, you must pay a non-refundable fee of SGD 15 to reserve your company name. If the name is rejected or not used within the stipulated time, this fee will not be returned.

b. Company Registration Fee Incorporation Fee

Once the name is approved, the next step is formal company registration. According to ACRA regulations, the incorporation fee is SGD 300, which includes

Name approval fee

Certificate of Incorporation

Shareholder register registration

This fee is fixed and does not vary based on company type or capital amount.

c. Other Potential Fees

While not mandatory, there may be additional expenses depending on your specific situation

Notarization Fees Required if documents need certification by a lawyer or notary.

Business License Application Fees Necessary if your business operates in regulated industries such as food service or retail.

Trademark Registration Fees If you plan to register a trademark, the fee is approximately SGD 341 per class through the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore IPOS.

3. Is It Necessary to Use an Agency Service?

While it is possible to complete the registration process directly via ACRA’s website, most first-time applicants choose to work with a professional agency to save time and avoid errors. These agencies typically charge between SGD 600 and SGD 2,000, depending on the scope of services offered, which may include

First-year company secretary service often offered for free

Provision of a registered office address

Assistance with opening a corporate bank account

Tax advisory and other value-added services

Please note that these are private service fees and not official government charges, so they should be clearly distinguished when planning your budget.

4. Recent Trends in Company Registrations

According to a report published in The Straits Times in Q4 2025, data from Enterprise Singapore shows that despite a slowdown in global economic growth, over 30,000 new companies were incorporated in Singapore during the first three quarters of 2025 - a year-on-year increase of around 7%. This growth is largely driven by tech startups and multinational corporations relocating regional headquarters to Singapore.

Singapore has continuously improved its business environment by streamlining registration procedures and introducing favorable tax policies to attract foreign investment. For example, starting in 2025, qualifying startups can enjoy tax exemption on the first SGD 100,000 of annual profits, significantly reducing operational costs.

5. Conclusion

In summary, the official costs of registering a company in Singapore are relatively low, totaling only SGD 315 - SGD 15 for name reservation and SGD 300 for incorporation. Compared to many other countries, this cost structure is highly competitive, making Singapore particularly attractive for small and medium-sized enterprises SMEs and individual entrepreneurs looking to launch quickly.

However, besides official fees, you should also factor in other real-world operational costs such as agency service fees, office rental, bank account setup, and tax compliance. It is advisable to prepare a detailed budget and engage a reputable professional service provider to ensure compliance and smooth operations.

If you're planning to enter the Southeast Asian market, Singapore offers an ideal starting point. With its robust legal framework, favorable financial environment, and strong government support, Singapore provides fertile ground for business growth. Take action now and seize the opportunity to embark on your international entrepreneurial journey!