Costs and Key Considerations for Registering a Singapore Company in the U.S.

Registering a Singapore Company from the United States A Comprehensive Guide to Costs and Key Considerations

In recent years, registering a Singapore company from the United States has become a topic of growing interest among small and medium business owners and entrepreneurs. As globalization accelerates, more companies are seeking to expand into overseas markets. Singapore has emerged as a top destination for setting up international operations due to its stable economic environment, robust legal framework, and efficient services. However, for U.S. business owners or investors, establishing a company in Singapore is not a simple process-it involves various costs and complex considerations. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the associated fees and other essential factors involved in registering a Singapore company from the U.S.

1. Basic Procedures for Registering a Singapore Company

There are typically two ways for U.S. entrepreneurs to register a Singapore company

1. Direct registration through a local agent in Singapore, or

2. Establishing a U.S. company first, then setting up a subsidiary or branch in Singapore.

The first method is more commonly chosen. The registration process generally includes the following steps

1. Company Name Approval and Registration Submit a proposed company name for approval to ensure it is not already taken.

2. Submission of Registration Documents These include the company’s constitution, shareholder and director details, and registered address.

3. Receipt of Certificate of Registration Issued by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA of Singapore.

4. Opening a Corporate Bank Account Can be opened in Singapore or overseas.

5. Application for Business Licenses if applicable Depending on the nature of the business, specific licenses may be required.

2. Key Cost Components for Registering a Singapore Company from the U.S.

The total cost of setting up a Singapore company includes the following

1. Registration Agent Service Fee

Most U.S. investors use a local agent for registration. These agencies often offer a full range of services including registration, address leasing, and secretary services. Fees typically range from SGD 300 to 1,000 approximately USD 220 to 740.

2. Government Registration Fees

To register a company in Singapore, an application must be submitted to ACRA along with the following fees

Name approval SGD 15

Company registration SGD 300

Total SGD 315 approximately USD 230

3. Registered Office Address

Singapore law requires all companies to have a local registered address. Many agents offer virtual office addresses, costing SGD 200-500 annually USD 150-370.

4. Company Secretary Service Fee

Under Singapore law, every company must appoint a local company secretary who is qualified to handle compliance matters. Annual fees typically range from SGD 500 to 1,500 USD 370-1,100.

5. Bank Account Opening Fees

While not mandatory, most companies open a local bank account for operational convenience. Some banks charge SGD 100-300 for account opening, and may also require minimum deposits or impose monthly maintenance fees.

6. Annual Compliance Fees

Singapore companies must meet annual compliance obligations, including filing financial statements, holding annual general meetings, and submitting annual returns. If outsourced to a professional firm, these services typically cost SGD 800-2,000 annually USD 600-1,500.

Summary of Initial and Annual Costs

Initial Setup Cost SGD 1,000-2,500 USD 740-1,850

Annual Maintenance Cost SGD 1,000-3,000 USD 740-2,200

3. Recent Trends and News

In recent years, the rise of remote work and cross-border business activities has led more U.S. entrepreneurs to consider setting up companies in Singapore. According to data released by Enterprise Singapore in 2025, the number of foreign company registrations has continued to grow, with a notable increase in U.S.-based businesses.

Singapore has also been actively improving its business environment by streamlining digital registration processes. For example, ACRA’s BizFile+ system has made company registration more efficient and convenient. Many registration agents now offer online services, further lowering the entry barrier.

However, despite a more streamlined registration process, regulatory compliance remains strict. In 2025, the Monetary Authority of Singapore MAS strengthened enforcement of anti-money laundering AML and know-your-customer KYC requirements. This has led some banks to tighten their account-opening criteria. U.S. investors must pay close attention to compliance issues to avoid operational disruptions due to incomplete or non-compliant documentation.

4. Which Types of U.S. Businesses Benefit Most?

The following types of U.S. businesses typically benefit from registering in Singapore

Cross-border E-commerce Businesses Looking to expand into the Southeast Asian market.

Tech Startups Seeking to leverage Singapore’s innovation ecosystem and funding platforms.

Consulting and Service Firms Planning to establish an office in Asia to offer professional services.

Investment Holding Companies Using Singapore’s favorable tax regime to manage global assets.

These businesses are typically attracted by Singapore’s low tax rates, political and economic stability, excellent infrastructure, and its extensive network of free trade agreements with other countries.

5. Conclusion

While registering a Singapore company from the U.S. involves certain costs and procedural complexities, the commercial advantages are significant. Whether from the perspective of tax incentives, legal protection, or market expansion, Singapore stands out as a highly attractive international business hub.

For U.S. businesses aiming to enter the Asian market, understanding the registration process and associated costs in advance is crucial for strategic planning. When selecting a registration agent, investors are advised to choose reputable and experienced local firms to ensure a smooth and compliant registration process.

Additionally, staying updated on Singapore’s regulatory changes and adapting business strategies accordingly will help ensure long-term stability and growth.