Guide to Easily Master the Entire Process of Company Registration in Singapore

A Comprehensive Guide to Registering a Company in Singapore Master the Updated Process with Ease

In today’s increasingly globalized economy, more entrepreneurs and investors are turning their attention to Singapore-a country known for its international business environment, stable legal system, and favorable tax policies. As one of Asia’s most competitive business hubs, Singapore continues to attract entrepreneurs from around the world with its efficient business climate and robust legal framework.

According to the latest data released by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA in 2025, the number of new company registrations in Singapore increased by over 12% compared to the previous year. Investors from China, India, and Southeast Asian countries accounted for a significant share of this growth.

So, how can you successfully register a company in Singapore? This article provides a detailed breakdown of the latest company registration process in Singapore, helping you grasp key steps with ease and take your first step toward international expansion.

1. Pre-Registration Preparation

Before officially registering your company, it’s essential to complete thorough preparations to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

1.1 Choose the Right Company Structure

The most common type of company in Singapore is the Private Limited Company Pte Ltd. This structure offers limited liability protection to shareholders and is suitable for most small to medium-sized enterprises.

Other options include setting up a branch office, representative office, or partnership. However, the Private Limited Company remains the most popular due to its legal protection and ease of raising capital.

1.2 Confirm the Company Name

The chosen company name must be pre-approved through ACRA’s online system to ensure it's available and complies with regulations. It’s advisable to conduct market research before submission to avoid duplication with existing brands and facilitate future branding efforts.

1.3 Prepare Required Registration Information

This includes

Registered Office Address - Must be a local Singapore address

At least one director - Must be at least 18 years old; no nationality restrictions, but at least one director must be a Singapore resident or a local contact person

At least one shareholder - Can be an individual or corporate entity

Company Secretary - Must be a Singapore resident

Minimum Paid-up Capital - At least S$1, which can be increased later

2. Step-by-Step Registration Process

Since 2025, Singapore has further streamlined its business registration process, fully digitizing the system and significantly reducing processing times.

Step 1 Register the Company Name

Submit the company name for approval via ACRA’s BizFile+ portal. Approval is typically granted within minutes. If rejected, you may resubmit or modify the name.

Step 2 Submit Registration Documents

Within 60 days of name approval, complete the company registration by submitting the following documents

Identity and address proofs of directors and shareholders

Memorandum and Articles of Association MA

Proof of registered address

Appointment documents for the company secretary

Step 3 Pay the Registration Fees

Fees vary depending on the company type and capital. The registration fee for a Private Limited Company is approximately S$300 around RMB 1,500. Additional costs may include secretary service fees and registered address rental.

Step 4 Receive the Certificate of Registration

Once the application is submitted, the electronic Business Profile certificate of registration is typically issued within one business day, officially marking the company’s formation.

3. Post-Registration Essentials

Registering the company is just the beginning. Several legal procedures must be completed to ensure compliance and smooth operations.

3.1 Open a Corporate Bank Account

Most banks in Singapore require the director to be physically present to open a company account, although some offer remote account opening. Major banks include DBS, OCBC, and UOB.

3.2 Apply for Business Licenses if applicable

Certain industries such as food services, education, and finance require specific licenses. For example, food businesses must apply with the Singapore Food Agency SFA, while educational institutions need to submit applications to the Committee for Private Education CPE.

3.3 Tax Registration

All companies must register with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore IRAS within three months of incorporation. Depending on the business nature, you may need to apply for tax-related numbers such as GST registration or payroll withholding.

3.4 Hiring Employees and Social Security Contributions

If hiring local employees, you must contribute to the Central Provident Fund CPF. For foreign employees, you’ll need to apply for work passes such as the Employment Pass EP or S Pass SP. In 2025, minimum salary requirements for certain work passes were increased, so staying updated on policy changes is essential.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 Can foreigners register a company in Singapore?

Yes, foreigners can own 100% of a Singapore company but must appoint at least one local director or a local contact person.

Q2 Is it mandatory to operate from a local office?

While a local registered address is required, the company does not need to operate from that location. Many businesses opt for co-working spaces or virtual office services.

Q3 Do I need a lawyer or agent to register the company?

While self-registration is possible, it’s recommended to engage a professional agent or lawyer to ensure compliance and efficiency, especially for foreign applicants unfamiliar with local regulations.

5. Conclusion

Singapore’s open market, low tax regime, and high-quality services make it an ideal destination for global entrepreneurs. With an increasingly simplified registration process, more small and medium enterprises and individual investors can now enter this international market quickly and efficiently.

Whether you're a Chinese enterprise expanding overseas or a startup team seeking an international platform, understanding the latest procedures for registering a company in Singapore will lay a solid foundation for future growth. With proper planning, knowledge of the registration process, and the right support services, setting up a company in Singapore no longer needs to be a complex endeavor.

We hope this guide offers you practical insights and helps you confidently embark on your entrepreneurial journey in Singapore.