The Right Way to Register a Company in Singapore Key Steps You Need to Know!

How to Easily Register a Company in Singapore Everything You Need to Know

In recent years, Singapore has consistently attracted global investors due to its stable environment, strategic location, efficient services, and robust financial system. Whether you're a startup or a multinational corporation, more and more businesses are choosing to register in Singapore. According to the latest data from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA, new company registrations in the first quarter of 2025 increased by more than 12% year-on-year, reaffirming Singapore’s position as a global business hub. So, how can you easily register a business in Singapore? This article will reveal everything you need to know.

1. Choose the Right Company Structure

Before registering your company, it's essential to determine the type of business entity you wish to establish in Singapore. Common business structures include

Private Limited Company Pte Ltd The most popular option, this structure has separate legal identity, limited liability for shareholders, and is ideal for businesses seeking investment.

Branch Office Suitable for foreign companies already operating in other countries and looking to expand into Singapore.

Representative Office Ideal for market research purposes but not permitted to engage in profit-making activities.

Partnership and Sole Proprietorship Suitable for small-scale businesses, but investors bear unlimited liability.

Most investors prefer to register a Private Limited Company, as it facilitates fundraising and allows access to various tax incentives offered by Singapore.

2. Meet Basic Registration Requirements

To successfully register a company in Singapore, the following basic requirements must be fulfilled

At least one director must be a natural person aged 18 or older and usually resident in Singapore e.g., a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or foreigner holding an Employment Pass.

There must be at least one shareholder, who can be an individual or corporate entity.

A company secretary must be appointed and must be a natural person ordinarily resident in Singapore.

There is no minimum capital requirement; the typical starting capital is S$1.

A local Singapore address must be provided as the registered office address.

All companies must commence business within 18 months of incorporation; otherwise, they may be classified as dormant and subjected to review by ACRA.

3. Efficient and Streamlined Registration Process

Singapore’s company registration process is highly efficient and typically completed within 1-3 business days. Here are the key steps

1. Company Name Approval Submit your proposed company name via ACRA’s BizFile+ system to ensure it’s available and complies with naming rules.

2. Submit Registration Documents These include the company’s constitution, details of shareholders and directors, appointment of the company secretary, and proof of registered address.

3. Pay Registration Fees and Await Approval The registration fee is approximately S$300. Upon approval, the company will receive a Unique Entity Number UEN.

4. Open a Corporate Bank Account It is recommended to open an account with major local banks such as DBS, OCBC, or UOB to facilitate business operations.

5. Apply for Relevant Licenses If your business operates in specific sectors such as food services, finance, or education, you must apply for licenses from the relevant regulatory authorities.

The entire process can be completed online without the need for physical presence, making it especially convenient for overseas investors.

4. Tax Policies and Incentives

Singapore is renowned for its highly competitive business environment, largely due to its attractive tax regime. The country follows a territorial tax system, with a flat corporate income tax rate of just 17%. Additionally, the first S$100,000 of taxable income enjoys tax exemption benefits.

Singapore has also signed more than 80 Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements DTAAs globally, helping companies optimize their cross-border tax structures. Furthermore, government agencies such as the Economic Development Board EDB and Enterprise Singapore offer various financial grants, tax exemptions, and funding support for startups.

For example, the newly launched Innovation and Capability Scheme 2025 provides eligible tech startups with subsidies covering up to 70% of their RD expenses.

5. Professional Services to Support Registration

Although the registration process is relatively straightforward, first-time investors entering the Singapore market are advised to work with professional service providers such as accounting firms, law firms, or corporate registration agents. These experts are well-versed in local regulations and can help businesses avoid potential risks and ensure compliance.

Professional services can also assist with ongoing administrative tasks such as annual filings, audits, and tax planning, providing a solid foundation for long-term business development in Singapore.

6. Trends and Future Outlook

According to a report released by Enterprise Singapore in April 2025, technology, green energy, and biomedical sciences are emerging as the most popular sectors for new business registrations. In particular, the number of companies related to artificial intelligence and sustainable technologies has surged, indicating Singapore’s accelerated shift toward a high-value-added economy.

At the same time, with the ongoing trend of remote work, more digital nomads and remote entrepreneurs are choosing to register companies in Singapore and leverage its world-class infrastructure and international business environment to operate globally.

Conclusion

In summary, Singapore has become an ideal destination for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to expand internationally, thanks to its efficient registration process, stable legal environment, low tax rates, and comprehensive support systems.

Whether you're a startup team or an established enterprise, registering a company in Singapore is not difficult if you plan ahead, choose the appropriate business structure, and seek professional assistance. If you're considering setting up a regional business hub in Asia, Singapore is undoubtedly a top choice that you cannot afford to overlook.