Quick Easy Guide to Registering a Singapore Business License Key Points You Need to Know!

How to Quickly and Easily Register a Singapore Company License What You Need to Know

In the context of global economic integration, more and more entrepreneurs and investors are turning their attention to Singapore - a world-renowned international financial hub. As one of Asia’s most competitive business hubs, Singapore attracts a large number of foreign investors with its efficient services, transparent legal system, and favorable tax policies. In the evolving global business environment of 2025, Singapore remains a top choice for entrepreneurs looking to establish a company. But how can you register a company license in Singapore quickly and easily? In fact, as long as you understand the following key steps and precautions, the entire process is quite straightforward.

1. Understand the Types of Companies in Singapore

Before registering a company, it’s essential to determine the type of business entity you wish to establish. Common types of businesses in Singapore include

Private Limited Company Pte Ltd The most common business structure, suitable for most small and medium-sized enterprises. It has no more than 50 shareholders and is not allowed to issue shares publicly.

Limited Liability Partnership LLP Suitable for professional service firms such as law firms and accounting firms.

Branch Office Appropriate for companies already established overseas that wish to set up a branch in Singapore.

Representative Office Designed for companies that have not yet decided whether to operate long-term in Singapore. It is typically non-profit and valid for up to 18 months.

Choosing the right business structure affects not only the registration process but also future tax planning and legal responsibilities.

2. Prepare Required Documents for Registration

Once you’ve decided on the company type, the next step is to prepare the necessary documents. These typically include

Company Name subject to approval by ACRA

Registered Address in Singapore

Director and Shareholder Information, including at least one local Singapore resident director

Memorandum and Articles of Association

Company Secretary Details, who must be a qualified professional

Paid-up Capital, typically starting from 1 SGD and can be paid in installments

The first step is usually to submit the company name for approval. It is recommended to check the availability of the name on the ACRA Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority website in advance.

3. Register Your Company Online via ACRA

Singapore has strongly promoted digital transformation, and the company registration process has been fully digitized. Through ACRA’s BizFile+ platform, applicants can complete steps such as company registration, business license application, and shareholder registration.

The general steps are

1. Submit the company name for approval

2. Complete company registration details, including directors, shareholders, and secretary

3. Upload the Memorandum and Articles of Association and other relevant documents

4. Pay the registration fee

5. Wait for approval usually 1-3 business days

Once registered, ACRA will issue a Business Profile, which serves as the official business license.

4. Apply for Industry-Specific Licenses if applicable

While most businesses can start operations immediately after registration, certain industries require additional licenses

Food and Beverage Must obtain a food business license from the Singapore Food Agency SFA

Education and Training Institutions Need accreditation from the Committee for Private Education CPE

Financial Services Require approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore MAS

It’s important to understand the regulatory requirements of your industry before registration to avoid delays in operations.

5. Open a Corporate Bank Account

After successfully registering your company, the next step is to open a corporate bank account. Singapore offers a wide range of international and local banks, such as DBS Bank, OCBC Bank, and UOB.

Typically required documents include

Company Business Profile

Memorandum and Articles of Association

Director’s identification documents

Business license

Business plan some banks may require this

It’s advisable to communicate with the bank in advance to streamline the account opening process.

6. Hire a Professional Service Provider to Improve Efficiency

Although the registration process is relatively straightforward, first-time entrepreneurs may still encounter challenges related to language, legal requirements, or tax procedures. In such cases, hiring a professional registration agent or accounting firm can significantly improve efficiency and prevent delays caused by incomplete documentation or procedural errors.

Many well-known service providers in Singapore offer one-stop solutions, including company incorporation, tax registration, and corporate secretary services. For example, EasyCorp, a fast-growing local registration platform, has gained popularity among SMEs for its user-friendly process and efficient customer service.

Conclusion

Registering a company in Singapore is now highly efficient and transparent. By understanding the necessary regulations, preparing required documents in advance, and making full use of digital tools, you can complete the registration and obtain your business license within a short time frame. For businesses aiming to expand into the Asian market, Singapore is undoubtedly an ideal destination. With the right preparation, you too can easily embark on your entrepreneurial journey in Singapore.