How Can Mainland Enterprises Smoothly Register a Company in Singapore? A Comprehensive Analysis and Practical Recommendations

How Can Mainland Chinese Companies Successfully Register a Company in Singapore? A Comprehensive Guide and Practical Tips

In recent years, as the global economic landscape continues to evolve, an increasing number of mainland Chinese companies have turned their attention to overseas markets, aiming to diversify their operations and mitigate risks. Singapore, as a key financial and business hub in Asia, has become a preferred destination for many mainland companies seeking international expansion. This is due to its stable environment, strategic location, efficient business ecosystem, and favorable tax policies.

According to data released by Enterprise Singapore in 2025, Chinese investment in Singapore has steadily increased over the past three years, particularly in sectors such as technology, finance, logistics, and green energy. More and more mainland enterprises are choosing to establish companies in Singapore as a strategic platform for their overseas operations.

So, how can mainland Chinese companies successfully register a company in Singapore? This article offers a comprehensive analysis from multiple perspectives, including registration procedures, legal requirements, tax policies, bank account opening, talent acquisition, and provides practical recommendations.

1. Registration Process Efficient and Transparent, but Professional Assistance Is Recommended

The company registration process in Singapore is known globally for its efficiency. Typically, the entire process-from preparing documents to completing registration-can be completed within 3 to 7 working days. Mainland companies can submit their registration applications either through the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA website or via authorized registration agents.

The registration process includes the following key steps

1. Company Name Approval Submit the proposed company name through the ACRA website to ensure it is available and complies with regulatory standards.

2. Submission of Documents These include the company’s constitution, identity proofs of shareholders and directors, proof of registered address, and appointment documents for the company secretary.

3. Issuance of Business Profile Upon approval, the company will receive a Business Profile issued by ACRA, serving as the certificate of registration.

Although the process appears straightforward, mainland companies may lack familiarity with Singapore’s legal system and business practices. Therefore, it is advisable to seek assistance from professional registration agents or law firms to ensure compliance and avoid delays caused by information gaps.

2. Legal and Compliance Clarify Corporate Structure and Responsibilities

When registering a company in Singapore, mainland enterprises must choose an appropriate corporate structure. The most common form is the Private Limited Company Pte Ltd, which has a separate legal entity. Shareholders' liability is limited to their shareholding, making this structure suitable for most small and medium-sized enterprises.

Singapore law requires every company to have at least one local director who is a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a foreigner holding an Employment Pass. For mainland entrepreneurs who cannot reside in Singapore full-time, hiring a local director is an option, but the compliance and reliability of such services must be carefully evaluated.

Moreover, Singapore has strengthened its anti-money laundering AML and know-your-customer KYC regulations, especially in banking and fund movements. Companies must ensure the authenticity and completeness of all submitted documents to avoid operational disruptions caused by inaccuracies.

3. Tax Policy Low Tax Rates and Attractive Incentives

Singapore's tax system is known for its simplicity and low tax burden. The maximum corporate income tax rate is 17%, significantly lower than China’s 25%. Newly incorporated companies can enjoy partial tax exemptions for the first three years, such as tax exemption or reduction on the first SGD 300,000 of taxable income.

For mainland enterprises, Singapore not only serves as an investment platform but also as a regional headquarters or holding company. With over 80 double taxation avoidance agreements DTAs signed with countries and regions worldwide, Singapore helps reduce the tax costs of cross-border capital flows.

Notably, in 2025, Singapore further enhanced its tax incentives for tech startups, offering up to five years of corporate income tax exemptions for qualifying technology companies. This is a strong incentive for mainland enterprises looking to expand their tech operations in Southeast Asia.

4. Bank Account Opening Preparation and Credibility Are Key

After successfully registering a company, mainland enterprises usually need to open a bank account in Singapore to conduct business operations. However, due to stricter global anti-money laundering regulations, Singapore banks have tightened their review processes for non-local companies.

Typically, the following documents are required when applying for a bank account

Certificate of incorporation and other company documents

Identity proofs of shareholders and directors

Business plan or background description

Proof of initial capital sources

It is advisable for companies to communicate with banks in advance to understand the requirements and prepare accordingly. Choosing reputable banks with diverse services-such as DBS Bank, OCBC, or UOB-can increase the success rate of account opening.

5. Talent Acquisition Attracting International Talent and Building a Local Team

Singapore actively encourages companies to attract international talent, especially high-skilled professionals. After establishing a presence in Singapore, mainland enterprises can apply for Employment Passes, S Passes, or Work Permits to bring in key personnel.

Since 2025, the Ministry of Manpower MOM has raised the minimum salary threshold for Employment Passes but has also introduced more convenience measures for high-skilled individuals. For mainland companies aiming for long-term development in Singapore, building a local team with on-the-ground experience will help them better integrate into the local market.

6. Practical Recommendations From Strategic Planning to Execution

1. Clarify the Purpose of Registration Is it for market expansion in Southeast Asia or as a financing platform? Different objectives will influence the company structure and future operations.

2. Select Professional Service Providers Engage reliable agents, accounting firms, or law firms to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

3. Understand Local Business Culture Although Singapore is multicultural, its business culture is largely Westernized, emphasizing efficiency and contractual discipline.

4. Plan Capital Flows Strategically Leverage Singapore’s role as a regional treasury center to optimize cross-border financial management.

5. Monitor Policy Changes Singapore frequently adjusts its policies in response to economic conditions. Companies must stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly.

Conclusion

With its favorable business environment, mature financial system, and strategic location, Singapore offers an ideal starting point for mainland Chinese companies seeking international growth. As long as companies adequately prepare in areas such as registration, taxation, compliance, and talent management, and align these with their strategic goals, they can successfully establish and sustain operations in Singapore.