Singapore Company Registration Guide Costs Process Explained

How to Successfully Register a Company in Singapore Cost Breakdown and Process Guide

In recent years, as the global economic landscape continues to evolve and the Asia-Pacific region thrives, Singapore has become an increasingly attractive destination for international investors and entrepreneurs. Thanks to its stable environment, efficient financial system, and strategic geographical location, Singapore has drawn growing interest from global business communities. According to data released by Enterprise Singapore in 2025, the number of newly registered local and foreign companies increased by more than 8% year-on-year, demonstrating Singapore’s strong appeal as a global business hub.

For entrepreneurs planning to start a business or expand into Singapore, understanding how to register a company smoothly is a crucial first step. This article will provide a detailed guide on the registration process, associated costs, and key considerations to help you navigate company registration in Singapore.

1. Pre-Registration Preparation

Before officially registering, entrepreneurs should complete the following foundational tasks

1.1 Determine the Company Type

The most common type of company in Singapore is the Private Limited Company Pte Ltd. This structure offers limited liability protection and tax incentives, making it suitable for most small and medium-sized enterprises. Other options include setting up a branch office, partnership, or representative office of a foreign company, but the Private Limited structure remains the most popular.

1.2 Choose a Company Name

The company name must be checked for uniqueness through the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA online system. The name must not duplicate any existing company name. ACRA typically provides approval results within one hour after submission.

1.3 Determine Shareholder and Director Structure

A Singapore company must have at least one local director, who can be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a professional holding an Employment Pass. Foreigners can be shareholders, but at least one natural person must be a shareholder.

1.4 Prepare the Share Capital and Share Structure

The minimum paid-up capital for a Singapore company is S$1, with no upper limit. Commonly used capital amounts are S$100 or S$500, which facilitate future share allocation and fundraising.

2. Step-by-Step Registration Process

The entire registration process typically takes 1-3 business days and includes the following steps

2.1 Submit the Company Name Application

Apply for the company name via ACRA’s BizFile+ system and await approval.

2.2 Prepare Registration Documents

These include the company’s Constitution formerly known as the Memorandum and Articles of Association, identity documents of directors and shareholders, and proof of registered address. These documents can be prepared by a registered agent.

2.3 Submit the Company Registration Application

File Form 9 on the ACRA website, including details such as the company name, shareholder and director information, and the registered address.

2.4 Pay the Registration Fees

The name reservation fee is S$15, and the registration fee for a Private Limited Company is S$300. If using a registration agent, additional agent service fees will apply.

2.5 Obtain the Certificate of Registration

Once approved, ACRA will issue the Business Profile, which serves as the official certificate of company registration.

2.6 Open a Corporate Bank Account

With the Business Profile, you may contact local banks in Singapore such as DBS, OCBC, or UOB to open a corporate bank account.

3. Registration Costs Overview

The main costs involved in registering a company in Singapore include government fees and optional agent service fees

Item Cost SGD Notes

Company Name Reservation 15 Refundable if name is rejected

Government Registration Fee 300 ACRA official fee

Agent Service Fee 200-1,000 Varies by provider and service package

Company Seal 50-100 Optional

Registered Address Rental 100-300/year Some agents offer free address for 1 year

Bank Account Setup Fee 100-300 If assisted by agent

If you opt for a professional agent to assist with the registration, the total cost usually ranges from S$800 to S$2,000. Entrepreneurs with experience can also register independently to save on agent fees.

4. Common Questions and Key Considerations

4.1 Is a Local Company Secretary Required?

Yes, under Singapore company law, every company must appoint a qualified company secretary within six months of incorporation. The secretary must have professional qualifications such as being a lawyer, accountant, or ACRA-certified secretary. Most registration agents offer secretary services as part of their packages.

4.2 Registered Address Requirements

The registered address must be a valid local Singapore address-not a PO Box. Many agents provide virtual office addresses that meet this requirement.

4.3 Tax Registration

If a company’s annual revenue exceeds S$1 million, it must register for Goods and Services Tax GST with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore IRAS. The company must also submit annual financial statements and file tax returns on time.

4.4 Annual Compliance and Maintenance Costs

Each year, the company must file an Annual Return with ACRA for a fee of S$30. Additionally, annual fees for the company secretary and registered address services typically range from S$300 to S$800.

5. Conclusion

As one of the world’s most competitive business hubs, Singapore offers an efficient registration process, a transparent legal framework, and a business-friendly environment that supports entrepreneurial growth. With the detailed guidance provided in this article, you should now have a clear understanding of how to successfully register a company in Singapore.

Whether you're an individual entrepreneur or a multinational corporation, with proper planning and the right choice of registration method and agent, establishing a company in Singapore can be a highly efficient and viable option.