Key Points to Register a Singapore Company in Beijing Must-Know Tips

Registering a Singapore Company from Beijing Key Points You Must Know

In recent years, with the acceleration of globalization and the deepening of China’s Going Global strategy, more and more entrepreneurs and business owners in Beijing are looking overseas to explore broader markets and more favorable business environments. Among various international destinations, Singapore has become a top choice for many Beijing investors due to its stable economy, efficient services, low tax rates, and strong economic ties with China.

According to the latest data released by Enterprise Singapore in 2025, China has remained one of the top foreign investment sources for Singapore for many consecutive years, with particularly notable growth from the Beijing region. In fields such as technology, finance, trade, and high-end manufacturing, Beijing-based companies have expanded their operations and enhanced their global capabilities by establishing entities in Singapore.

If you're considering registering a Singapore company from Beijing, the following key points will provide you with practical guidance.

1. Clarify the Company Type and Business Positioning

Before registering a company in Singapore, it is essential to determine your business type and registration structure. The most common form is the Private Limited Company, which is preferred by most foreign investors due to its advantages legal independence, limited liability, and ease of fundraising.

Alternatively, you may choose to establish a Branch Office or a Representative Office. However, it's important to note that a representative office is only allowed to conduct market research and promotional activities, not profit-generating operations.

Beijing investors should choose the most suitable structure based on their business development stage, financial strength, and long-term strategy.

2. Understand the Registration Process and Timeline

Singapore's company registration process is known for its efficiency and transparency, typically completed within 1-3 business days. The main steps include

1. Company Name Approval Submit the desired company name through the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA online portal to ensure it is available and complies with naming regulations.

2. Submission of Registration Documents This includes the company constitution, shareholder and director information, and the registered office address.

3. Obtaining the Certificate of Registration Once approved, the company will receive a Business Profile, officially granting it the right to operate.

The entire process can be completed online, without the need to travel to Singapore, making it highly convenient for Beijing-based investors to proceed remotely.

3. Meet Shareholder and Director Requirements

Singapore imposes certain requirements on shareholders and directors

There must be at least one local resident director, who can be a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a foreigner holding an Employment Pass.

Shareholders can be individuals or corporate entities, with no nationality restrictions.

A company secretary must be a Singapore resident and must be appointed within six months of the company’s incorporation.

For Beijing investors without local director resources, it is possible to engage a professional service provider to supply a nominee director. However, it's crucial to choose a reputable agency to avoid potential risks.

4. Open a Bank Account and Manage Financial Affairs

After registration, the next step is to open a corporate bank account. Singapore is home to globally recognized banks such as DBS Bank, OCBC Bank, and UOB, which offer efficient financial services for foreign companies.

Please note that while the registration process is straightforward, banks usually conduct rigorous due diligence when opening accounts. Required documents typically include the company’s background, business plan, and shareholder identification.

Singapore follows a territorial tax system, meaning only income generated within Singapore is taxed. The maximum corporate tax rate is 17%, and there are various tax incentives. For example, newly incorporated companies can enjoy tax exemption on the first SGD 300,000 of profits, which is especially beneficial for startups.

5. Ensure Compliance and Fulfill Annual Reporting Obligations

Despite its business-friendly environment, compliance remains crucial for long-term success. Singapore companies must fulfill the following annual obligations

Submit annual financial statements.

Hold an Annual General Meeting AGM.

File an Annual Return with ACRA.

Timely file tax returns and meet audit requirements, if applicable.

It is highly recommended that Beijing investors engage professional accounting and secretarial services from the outset to ensure full compliance and avoid penalties or damage to the company’s reputation.

6. Leverage Singapore as a Gateway to Global Markets

Singapore is not only a leading global financial and trade hub but also a strategic gateway to Southeast Asia. For Beijing-based companies, setting up in Singapore offers not only a favorable business climate but also access to an extensive network of free trade agreements, enabling business expansion into ASEAN, the Middle East, Europe, and the U.S.

For example, the 2025 Digital Economy Cooperation Memorandum signed between Singapore and Indonesia has created new cross-border opportunities for tech firms. Additionally, Singapore plays a key role in the Belt and Road Initiative, serving as a strategic hub for Chinese companies expanding overseas.

Beijing enterprises can use Singapore as a springboard to establish overseas headquarters, RD centers, or cross-border e-commerce operations, thereby enhancing their global competitiveness.

Conclusion

For Beijing businesses aiming to expand internationally, registering a Singapore company is a compelling option. With its streamlined registration process, favorable tax policies, robust financial system, and stable legal environment, Singapore offers an ideal environment for entrepreneurs.

In practice, it is advisable to conduct thorough research in advance, clearly define your business needs, and leverage professional service providers to ensure a smooth and compliant setup. Only through careful planning and execution can you fully harness the strategic advantages of Singapore and drive sustainable global growth.